When it comes to an automobile that is suitable for the family, the first thing to pop into one’s mind is any form of minivan. These are known for providing adequate space and comfort for the family as well as groceries if shopping is on the list.
There are, however, some cars that unjustly receive an unfavorable car rating in the zone of family use yet they do have something special to offer as well. If you are not one for the clichéd family minivan, below are some automobiles that can pull off the job just as well.
2015 KIA Soul
This is probably the furthest in the car market you can go from a minivan. This is because the Soul is essentially a compact car. Its shape however does it a ton of good in that it is boxy and has a high roof thus providing adequate headroom on the interior. The legroom provided is also sufficient and the rear seats are wide enough thus capable of accommodating only 2 child safety seats. Trunk space of 24.2 cubic feet is good for groceries and some luggage.
2015 Volkswagen Golf
The German car maker probably did not have families in mind when making and marketing the Golf. The hatchback does however bring some good qualities to this discussion. Despite not having enough original storage in the boot, the VW Golf does have the capacity to hold two child car seats as well as leaving enough leg room in the case of rear facing seats.
The Golf however shows its value with its on road performance. The drive is efficient and fun especially since the small car is powered by a 170-horsepower, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. It also takes care of the space problem by having a 60:40 foldable rear seat.
2015 Mini Countryman
For a family car purchase, the Mini would not even be on the first page of one’s list. The Mini Countryman however begs to differ. The car holds its own comfortably in the areas of space, comfort, fun and safety as evidenced by the Top Safety Pick designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The squared off roofline lends it enough headroom whereas the legroom offered is also adequate. When installing child seats, the front facing ones are more adequate since the rear facing ones may compromise the legroom. 16.5 cubic feet of space in the trunk may not be suitable for the large stroller as well.
2015 Audi Q3
For the small families, this subcompact automobile from the German car makers will do wonders. It delivers on the space front as well as adding a touch of luxury and lots of comfort. The rear row has enough legroom for adults and the seats have exposed latch anchors for the child car seats. The leather seats are very comfortable and the panoramic view offered by the moon roof is sublime luxury for the kids. Cargo volume of 16.7 cubic square feet is adequate for groceries but can be enlarged to 48.2 cubit square feet by folding the backseat.
2015 Ford Taurus
With the larger families that have around 3 kids, a full size sedan can be option. A perfect example of this is the 2015 Ford Taurus. This offers so much space. The rear seat can hold three whole child car seats facing forward. Two bulky rear facing seats can be put in without encroaching in any legroom at the front.
The trunk is large enough for a stroller and large forms of luggage at 20.1 cubic square feet.
