Shopping for a car that kids will love can be an exciting experience for the whole family. This guide will provide an overview of the key factors to consider when selecting the ideal car for your children. We aim to highlight the most important safety, entertainment, storage, accessibility, and affordability features that will keep kids happy during every ride.
Rather than focusing on specific makes and models, our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to evaluate any potential car through the lens of your child’s needs. By understanding the specialized features that make a kid-friendly vehicle, you’ll be prepared to find one that checks all the boxes for comfort, convenience, and protection. While test driving and researching options, keep this advice in mind as you search for the perfect family car.
With the right approach, choosing a car your kids will be thrilled to ride in can be a smooth and enjoyable process. Let’s begin exploring the key considerations to keep top of mind.
Safety Features
When choosing a car for kids, safety should be the top priority. There are several key safety features to look for:
-
Seat belts – Make sure the car has 3-point seat belts that are correctly sized for children. Seat belts are vital for holding kids in place in the event of a crash or sudden stop.
-
Airbags – Front airbags should deploy at an appropriate force for child passengers. Side curtain airbags provide additional protection.
-
Crumple zones – Look for crumple zones that will absorb impact and protect the passenger compartment in a collision. High-strength steel around the cabin enhances safety.
-
Rollover protection – Choose an SUV or crossover with electronic stability control, which can prevent rollovers.
-
Back-up cameras – These give the driver better visibility when in reverse to avoid accidents. Consider models with rear cross-traffic alert.
-
Child safety locks – Prevent kids from opening doors and windows while driving. Power window lockouts are ideal.
Prioritize safety above all else when car shopping for children. Test drive vehicles and inspect safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. A smart choice could be life-saving.
Entertainment Features
Keeping kids entertained in the car can make road trips and daily commutes much smoother. When shopping for a family car, look for built-in entertainment features that will keep your kids happy and distracted.
Built-In DVD Players
Many family vehicles now come equipped with built-in DVD players to keep kids entertained. These DVD players are integrated into the back of the front headrests or overhead console so rear passengers can watch movies. Some allow multiple media sources like DVDs, CDs, SD cards, and USB drives. High-end vehicles may have dual screens for each rear seat. Consider whether built-in DVD players are worth the added cost or if portable options would work just as well.
WiFi & Apps
Newer vehicles are offering built-in wifi and access to apps and streaming services. This allows passengers to use their personal devices for entertainment, play multiplayer games with others in the car, and stay connected on long road trips. Some models come with built-in games, apps, and internet browsers to keep kids busy without using their own devices. While these high-tech features are exciting, they can add significantly to the vehicle price.
Headphones
Providing headphones or headrest speakers is important when it comes to built-in entertainment. This allows each passenger to listen privately without distracting the driver. Some vehicles come equipped with multiple headphone jacks or wireless headphones. An alternative is to purchase affordable headphones or headrest speaker systems that are easy to install. This ensures the kids can enjoy the entertainment features without creating excess noise in the cabin.
Storage and Cargo Space
When shopping for a family car, storage and cargo space should be top considerations. Car seats, strollers, diaper bags, snacks, spare clothes, toys, and more all need room in the vehicle. The last thing you want is to feel cramped for space every time you load up the kids.
Look for a mid-size or large SUV or minivan that offers maximum cargo volume behind the rear seats. Models like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica are designed specifically for family hauling, with deep cargo areas and flat floors that make loading bulky items easy. If you go with a mid-size SUV, aim for at least 30 cubic feet of cargo space.
Second and third row seating should fold down completely flat to open up more room when needed. You’ll appreciate the extra capacity on shopping trips, road trips, or those times you need to transport large gear like a stroller plus luggage. Carefully measure the cargo area in models you are considering – every cubic foot matters when you’ve got a whole family’s belongings to accommodate.
Besides cargo volume, also look for family-friendly storage features like cubbies, bins, and trays designed to hold sippy cups, toys, and snacks within easy reach of little hands. The more contained storage you have, the less loose items you’ll be digging around for on the floor.
When it’s time to transport car seats, make sure they fit properly in the rear seats of any vehicle you are considering. Bring your car seat with you to test the fit during test drives. Look for LATCH anchors that are easy to access.
The right family car should offer maximum storage and cargo flexibility. Don’t settle for a cramped ride – prioritize space to transport your kids and all their gear in comfort.
Fuel Efficiency
Kids cars are less powerful than standard vehicles and tend to get better gas mileage as a result. This can save parents a lot of money at the gas pump over time. Smaller, more efficient engines mean less wasteful gas consumption and lower emissions that are better for the environment.
Kids cars like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Tucson all score over 25 mpg in combined city/highway driving, according to EPA estimates. Some models with advanced hybrid engines can get close to 40 mpg combined. That amounts to hundreds of dollars in potential annual fuel savings compared to larger SUVs or trucks that average under 20 mpg.
Beyond saving on gas costs, choosing a fuel efficient kids car is a smart way for environmentally-conscious parents to reduce their carbon footprint. The less gas burned, the less CO2 released into the atmosphere. Models with high mpg ratings mean fewer trips to the pump, so less time spent idling and emitting exhaust. Going with a efficient, low emission kids car is an easy way to “go green” as a family.
Reliability & Maintenance
When choosing a car for kids, reliability and minimal maintenance are key factors to consider. You’ll want a car that does not frequently break down unexpectedly, as that can leave you stranded with young children. Repair costs should also be minimal, as the expenses add up quickly.
Look for used cars with a solid reputation for dependability. Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda are known for reliability and ease of maintenance. Check consumer reports and forums to see what real owners say about the models you’re considering. Some brands and models tend to have chronic issues, so do your homework.
When test driving, listen for any odd noises or symptoms of potential problems. Have a mechanic you trust inspect any used car before purchasing. They can spot issues not apparent to the average driver.
Opt for simple, uncomplicated features that are less prone to breaking. Power windows, for example, can fail over time. And the more gadgets and electronics a car has, the more there is to potentially go wrong.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotation, etc. Proper preventative maintenance goes a long way towards minimizing major repairs down the road. Use quality parts and fluids.
Choosing a reliable, easy to maintain car for your kids will save you time, money and headaches. Do diligent research and proactive maintenance, and your investment should last for years to come.
Accessibility Features
When choosing a car for kids, it’s important to consider accessibility features that make it easy for children to get in and out of the vehicle independently. Here are some key things to look for:
- Doors that open wide enough for easy entry and exit. Many family vehicles today have rear doors that open up to 90 degrees, allowing even small children to get themselves in and out of the backseat without much effort.
- Low step-in height. Choose a car with a low and wide door opening, reducing the step up into the seat. This makes it easier for kids to climb in without tripping.
- Hand holds. Handles on the door frame and/or ceiling give kids something to grab onto as they enter and exit the vehicle.
- Side steps. Integrated side steps near the door make it simple for short legs to find secure footing when getting in and out. Retractable power side steps are a nice feature on larger SUVs.
- Entry and exit assist controls. Some vehicles have buttons near the rear doors that temporarily tilt the seat forward, allowing for easier backseat access. This is a great option for younger kids still learning to climb in on their own.
- Height-adjustable seat belts. Seat belts that can be lowered keep shoulder straps comfortably away from little necks and prevent belly straps from riding too high.
Prioritizing a car’s accessibility for kids allows them to quickly become independent passengers. Choosing the right features makes daily entry and exit easy and frustration-free.
Affordability
Buying a car for kids can put a strain on the family budget. However, there are a number of affordable options for parents to consider.
When looking for an affordable kids car, it’s important to balance price with safety. The car should have key safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Avoid extremely low-cost vehicles that may compromise on safety.
For families on a tight budget, buying a used car can provide big savings over a new vehicle. There are many late model used cars in great condition. Opt for certified pre-owned vehicles that undergo rigorous inspections and come with extended warranties.
Smaller, more basic vehicles tend to be more affordable. Subcompact cars and hatchbacks often have lower starting prices. However, make sure to test drive vehicles for cabin space, cargo room, and driving dynamics to ensure a good fit for kids’ needs.
Discount models from major automakers can offer new car peace of mind on a used car budget. Many car companies offer stripped-down models with minimal options to reach lower price points. Just be cautious about eliminating key safety features.
Leasing is another budget-friendly option to consider. Monthly payments are typically lower than financing a vehicle purchase. Just be aware of mileage limits and potential wear-and-tear charges when the lease ends.
With the right research and realistic expectations, parents can find safe, reliable transportation for their kids at an affordable price point. Focusing on fundamental features over lavish options can yield big savings.
Top Picks
When choosing a car for kids, you’ll want to select a model that balances safety, features, reliability, and affordability. Here are some top recommendations in different categories:
Best Minivan: Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is a top choice for families thanks to its excellent safety ratings, spacious interior with seating for up to 8, and family-friendly entertainment features like a rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna also has high predicted reliability ratings from J.D. Power.
Best SUV: Subaru Ascent
For an SUV, the Subaru Ascent is a great pick. It received the highest possible safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, along with a Top Safety Pick+ award. With up to 9 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent can handle different terrains. It’s packed with technology and entertainment features to keep kids happy.
Best Compact Car: Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a reliable compact car that consistently receives high safety ratings. With ample cargo space and rear seat legroom, the Civic provides flexibility at an affordable price point. Advanced driver assistance features like forward collision warning are available.
Best Truck: Toyota Tacoma
If you need a versatile truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a top performer. With Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the Tacoma makes for a long-lasting family vehicle. Safety technologies like a rearview camera come standard. It provides ample power to tow equipment while comfortably seating up to 5 passengers.
Conclusion
When choosing the right car for kids, there are a few key factors to consider. Safety should be the number one priority – look for cars with high safety ratings and advanced driver assist features. Entertainment options like built-in screens and wifi can help keep kids occupied on long trips. Fuel efficiency, reliability and easy maintenance will help maximize your budget. Seek out accessories like integrated booster seats for younger kids and enhanced accessibility controls for teens.
After reviewing top picks across SUVs, minivans and hatchbacks, the Honda Odyssey stands out as the best all-around option. With a kid-focused cabin, top safety scores, excellent fuel economy and Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Odyssey checks all the boxes. The Toyota Sienna is another great choice with similar strengths. Ultimately the right car depends on your family’s needs and budget. Test drive top contenders and don’t forget to involve your kids in the selection process too. With the right research and planning, you can find a quality, safe and reliable car that both parents and kids will enjoy for years to come.
