How To Get The Family Car You Want At A Price You Can Afford

- Guest Post 

With the average price of petrol rocketing (set to hit £2 per litre) and the price of diesel reaching an all-time high, it's becoming increasingly expensive for families in the UK to run their vehicles. Despite the doom and gloom surrounding increased fuel and energy costs it is still possible to find your dream family car for an affordable price. Whatever your budget, there are affordable options available that could help you get on the road. 

What to consider when choosing a family car

Your dream family car could be more attainable than you think, but what are the key factors to take into account when choosing a new vehicle for you and your family? 

What is your budget?

With the price of new cars and rentals rising, it is more important than ever to assess your funds and work within your budget. There are plenty of affordable options designed to cater to every pocket, so always make sure that you get the most for your money when looking for a new vehicle. Depending on your budget, you may decide to opt for a special car leasing deal or personal contract purchase (PCP) agreement and pay monthly rather than buying a car outright. You could even find an affordable lease agreement for a high-end car that would usually be way out of your price range. 

What do you need the car for?

The functionality and practicality of a vehicle should always be of paramount importance when you're searching for a family car - a souped-up sportscar with no boot space is not going to cut it on those long holiday drives and early morning school runs. If you'll also be using your family car working or commuting, make sure that the vehicle you buy is fit for purpose. 

Safety

Never buy a used car without checking its information with the DVLA and checking its MOT status and history. You can also check to see whether or not used vehicles have previously been recalled. If you're looking at a car in person, make sure the vehicle identification and engine number match those in the vehicle's logbook. You can also check the safety of a car referencing its Euro NCAP score. 

Space 

Space is a key factor when deciding on which vehicle to go with, especially for larger families. Always check that a car's interior (including seating legroom) is comfortable and roomy enough for your family before making an agreement. Boot and storage space is also key. 

Seats and car seat compatibility

Another key factor related to a car's interior is seating and child care seat compatibility. While the necessity for child seats can of course depend on the age of your children, safe seating and seatbelts are essential, especially for children. Depending on your purpose and the number of passengers, you may decide to opt for folding or convertible seats to allow for more space in the vehicle.