Features To Look For In A Family Car

What features should I check before I buy?

• Boot storage capacity. Sounds obvious, but check that your pram will fit and that you have enough space once the pram is in. (Maybe take your pram with you)

• Ease of getting the pram in and out lifting (sedan) versus sliding (wagon).

• Child seat anchor points. These are the bolts usually found on the back of the rear seats or in the boot section of the car. Most cars have 3, but check that you have what you need. (Ask the salesperson to show you)

• Ease of getting baby in and out of the car. A 2 door car can be more difficult.

• Room for baby seats. Some smaller cars and sports cars may not have enough space for a rear facing baby capsule.

Features that make life easier

• Air conditioning

• Air conditioned glove box or refrigerator, keep food/drinks cool

• Remote central locking (both sides of the car)

• Storage spaces for toys, wipes

• Lights on warning buzzer, not the time to get a flat battery

• Integrated child booster seats standard in Volvo V50, XC70, XC90

• 7 seats (for the growing family). Some models have these as standard including Land Rover SE, Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and people movers.

• TV screens in the rear. Your newborn might not appreciate watching the Wiggles on the way home from hospital, but it's only a matter of time...

Features to keep your family safe

• Reverse sensors- audible sound that lets you know if there's anything behind the car when you're reversing.

• Reverse camera. Ford Territory was the first Australian made car to fit this feature. It's a camera mounted in the rear so that you can view what's behind you when reversing.

• ABS-Anti lock Braking System. A braking system that stops your wheels from locking when you slam your foot on the brake so that you can maintain control of the steering.

• Airbags. Most new cars will have these for driver and passenger. While others will also have side, curtain and rear passenger airbags. Read the instructions to find out where you can put the baby seats in relation to the airbags.

• Cargo barrier. Essential in station wagons and 4WDs to stop your shopping, toys and general debris from flying forward when braking.

• Child safety locks on doors and windows.

• Tyres. Your tyres are one of the most important safety features on your car. Keep an eye on the tyre pressure and the condition of the tyres.