After you’ve found that special someone and have started to settle down, your idea of a great car can change pretty fast. When previously it was all about speed, features and beauty, you start to realize that safety, trunk space and fuel efficiency are much more important priorities in choosing an ideal automobile. Starting a family can flip your life around pretty quickly, but luckily we’ve got our fingers on the pulse of the world of auto careers and we’re here to help with a list of some of the best family cars on the market right now. So even if you’re not a proud parent yet, you can get a pretty good idea of what to invest in when you find yourself changing diapers and struggling with that two door coupe you thought was a great idea when you were single.
Mazda 3
Clocking in at a cool $17,000, the Mazda 3 instantly garners praise and attention for its low price point, but look a bit further and you’ll be even more amazed at this five passenger hatchback. Not only is it incredibly spacious – with excellent storage in the trunk and more than ample seating – but it’s packed with features like radar adaptive cruise control and Smart City Brake Support. This car not only gets a sweet 41 mpg on the highway, but it’s equipped with a great “infotainment” system to keep the little ones occupied. Even your auto mechanic will sign off on this one.
Chevrolet Impala
The Chevy Impala has been around the block more than once, and even your auto mechanic will sell you on the spaciousness and safety of this tried and true automobile. Newer models are even more appealing, topping many best car lists this year. However, at around $30,000 retail, it’s more on the premium side than some of the other cars on this list. But, with 195 horsepower, a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine and great features like a USB port and the option of a hybrid engine for just $2,000 more, it’s clear why the Impala ranks so highly on lists of dependable, spacious sedans. Just check out this great video review for more reasons to snag one!
Honda Odyssey
Just like the famous work of literature it’s named after, the Honda Odyssey is heavily celebrated and eye opening. This minivan packs a serious punch, and all the parenting jokes in the world couldn’t dissuade even the most staunch auto enthusiast from snagging this one. Not only is it luxuriously spacious – seating two in the front, and five in the back – but it’s decked out with a great entertainment system, and is wonderfully fuel efficient. It’s such a dazzling model you may even be able to avoid jokes about soccer practice when you see your auto technician. With giant mirrors, an excellent safety rating and 28 mpg on the highway, this is a great choice for those with growing families.
So there you have it, three great options that will not only provide class and comfort, but won’t break the bank either. Thankfully, with all the costs of starting a family, you need not compromise on your vehicle.