If you have a family, you may be looking for the best vehicle to keep them safe and have smooth rides. To help you make the best decision for you and your loved ones, this post by Hartmans Inc. in Wichita, KS shares the top features a family-friendly car should have.

When choosing a family car, parents are often looking for features that prioritize safety, convenience, comfort, and flexibility. Whether it’s for daily school runs, weekend trips, or family road adventures, the right vehicle can make all the difference in managing the challenges of family life on the road. Still, making the right decision on the car to invest in can be overwhelming. To help you out, here are the top five features to consider when searching for a family-friendly car.

Make sure your family-friendly car is well-maintained. Call Hartmans Inc in Wichita, KS at (316) 686-1069 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to order the best products for it!

1. Advanced Safety Features

Modern cars offer an impressive array of safety features to keep passengers protected. In addition to basics like airbags and anti-lock brakes, look for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), which provide an extra layer of protection. For example:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects when a collision may be imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time.
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots.
• Lane Keeping Assist: Helps drivers stay centered in their lane.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Detects approaching vehicles when reversing.

These features can be lifesaving, especially for families with young children who may be easily distracted. When choosing a car, check its crash-test ratings from reputable sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

2. Ample Interior Space and Flexible Seating Arrangements

Space is crucial in a family car. Look for a vehicle with ample legroom, headroom, and cargo space. Families with more than two children may benefit from a three-row SUV or minivan, as these provide additional seating without compromising storage. Flexible seating arrangements, such as split-folding rear seats, make it easier to configure the interior.

For parents with young children, ensure the car seats are compatible with child safety seats and have accessible LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) systems for secure installation.

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3. Cargo Capacity and Storage Solutions

A family car needs clever storage solutions for everyday items. Consider models with deep cargo holds, and cubby spaces throughout the cabin. Many SUVs and minivans offer power liftgates or hands-free tailgates, allowing parents to open the trunk with a simple foot motion, which is incredibly helpful when carrying groceries, strollers, or sports gear.

In addition to large cargo space, look for small, family-friendly touches like cup holders, door bins, and console storage for easy access to drinks, snacks, and small toys. Roof rails can also be handy for families who enjoy road trips and need to bring along extra equipment like bikes, kayaks, or a roof box.

4. In-Car Entertainment and Connectivity

Keeping kids entertained during long drives can be a challenge, so an in-car entertainment system is a valuable feature in family vehicles. Many family-friendly cars offer built-in rear-seat entertainment systems with screens that can stream movies or shows. For families with older children, look for USB ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Bluetooth.

A quality infotainment system enables parents to access navigation, music, and phone calls hands-free, which helps them stay focused on the road. A large and responsive touchscreen is ideal for easier navigation, and voice recognition can be especially helpful.

5. Fuel Efficiency and Cost of Ownership

Family cars are often used frequently for commutes, errands, and road trips, so fuel efficiency is an important consideration. Choosing a car with good fuel economy can help keep running costs down and reduce the environmental impact of your family’s daily drives.

In addition to fuel economy, consider the cost of maintenance and repair. Look for a vehicle with a solid reliability record, affordable parts, and convenient servicing. Some brands offer family-friendly perks like free maintenance for the first few years or extended warranties, which can make ownership more affordable and worry-free.

Don’t forget to care for your family-friendly car’s maintenance! Call Hartmans Inc in Wichita, KS at (316) 686-1069 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to keep your vehicle performing as expected for longer with top-quality maintenance products.