If you’re a family that likes to go on long road trips across the UK or Europe, finding the perfect family car to help you ride comfortably and safely is paramount.
Families that spend long periods on the road aren’t going to fare well with cars that are susceptible to breakdowns or develop common faults that can be tricky to get fixed when they’re not in their local area.
The perfect road trip car for families should not only be reliable but also efficient, comfortable and packed with family-friendly features.
But how do you find the perfect family car for road trips? These tips can help you determine what to look for and which car will work best.
Comfort
While reliability is a top priority, so is being able to travel in comfort. Both the driver and passengers need to feel comfortable when sitting in a vehicle for prolonged periods, so this means you need to ensure that whatever car you choose has your comfort in mind.
This goes beyond just seating – think about legroom, headroom, climate control and storage options. Does the car have enough space for everyone to stretch out and relax?
Features like heated seats, adjustable lumbar support, and dual-zone climate control can make all the difference on a long trip. It’s also worth considering noise insulation for a quieter ride, no one wants to spend hours in a car that’s too noisy inside!
Of course, comfort is subjective, and personal preferences will dictate the comfort level and interior decor choice, but sitting in a few cars, like the reliable Vauxhall Mokka, can help you understand the different types of comfort levels for your price bracket and find the right car for you.
Safety
There are various safety features you can look for in your new vehicle to provide you with a sense of security and peace of mind. These features are designed to protect your loved ones in case of an unfortunate event on the road.
Check the Euro NCAP ratings for each vehicle you’re considering to see how well it performed in safety tests. You’re looking for an overall 5-star rating.
Some of the top-rated cars on the market include models like the Kia Sorento and Volvo XC90, both known for their safety and family-friendly design.
In addition to these safety features, you might want to have advanced driver assistance systems, crumple zones, anti-lock brakes, seat belt reminders, and tyre pressure monitoring systems.
For long journeys, lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control can be lifesavers, helping to reduce driver fatigue and increase overall road safety.
Fuel Efficiency
If you’re not driving an electric vehicle, you need to check the fuel efficiency to ensure it’s as economical as possible and you’re not burning fuel and having to fill up frequently. Fuel-efficient cars not only save you money but also help reduce your carbon footprint, a win for your wallet and the planet!
If you’re opting for a petrol car, anything over 30 mpg is an excellent efficiency. This rises to 35 mpg and above for diesel cars, and it’s over 50 mpg for hybrids. For context, if you are going for a fully electric model for long-distance driving, you want the car to be above 100 mpg-e.
Cars like the Toyota Prius and Tesla Model X are great examples of vehicles offering high fuel efficiency and eco-friendly driving.
Reliability
As mentioned, the last thing you want is to invest in a car only to find it’s going to be frequently visiting the mechanic, potentially leaving you stranded on the side of the motorway for hours. This isn’t something anyone wants when planning a trip in their car.
You can minimise this risk by researching reviews on the reliability of different manufacturers and models. Toyota, Lexus, and Suzuki have often been featured as the most reliable cars in the UK, while Honda frequently tops the charts for reliable used cars.
It’s a good idea to look into the long-term maintenance costs as well. While some cars might have a lower purchase price, their maintenance costs can rack up quickly if they’re not as reliable as expected. Opting for a vehicle with a solid warranty can also provide extra peace of mind during those long road trips.
Space and Storage
Another crucial factor for the perfect family road trip car is space and storage capacity. Whether it’s for packing suitcases, camping gear, or even bikes, having enough room to fit everything comfortably is essential.
SUVs like the Ford Kuga and Skoda Kodiaq are perfect examples of vehicles that offer ample boot space without compromising on comfort. Look for features like fold-flat rear seats, underfloor storage, and roof racks to maximise your storage potential.
Entertainment Features
Let’s face it – keeping everyone entertained on long road trips can be tricky, especially with kids in tow. Cars with built-in entertainment systems, USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity can make your journey much more enjoyable.
Some modern vehicles even come equipped with rear-seat screens or tablet holders, which can be lifesavers for keeping kids occupied on the road. The Peugeot 5008, for example, offers fantastic family-friendly features with entertainment in mind.
Wrapping Up How To Find The Perfect Road Trip Car for Families
By following these tips, you can avoid making significant mistakes when choosing your next family car for road trips. This will empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable journey for your family.
Remember, the perfect road trip car for families isn’t just about how it looks, it’s about how it performs, keeps your family safe and enhances your overall travel experience.
Recommended reading
Take a look at the advantages of travelling by car on holiday in this handy guide.