Choosing a used family car: bring the family, seats and stroller

Before you decide

A car can look spacious in a photograph and still be awkward for your everyday family routine. The best comparison starts with the people and belongings you actually carry.

Count your normal passengers

Do you need seven seats every day, or only occasionally? How many child restraints must be installed? Will an adult need to sit between them? Do older relatives travel with you?

These details can matter more than whether the car is called a sedan, SUV or MPV. Compare the actual seating arrangement instead of assuming a larger-looking body always gives more useful room.

Bring the exact child seats

Child-seat width, permitted seating positions, anchors, belt geometry and door access all matter. Follow both the vehicle and restraint manuals. Three rear seating positions do not automatically mean three child seats can be fitted correctly.

Try the daily routine too. Can you place a child in the seat without an awkward reach? Can another passenger get to the third row when the restraints are installed? Do not use a seating position or installation that the manuals do not permit.

Test the boot with the seats upright

Bring your stroller and the bags you normally carry. Test the space with every required passenger seat in use. A boot figure or image taken with a row folded down may not describe the space you need.

Check the loading height and opening as well. A large compartment can still be difficult to use with a heavy stroller or bulky item.

Check the exact safety specification

Look at the year and variant, not just the model name. Confirm equipment on the actual car and match any safety rating to the relevant specification and assessment period.

Features are only part of the picture. Tyres, brakes, maintenance and the car's overall condition still need appropriate inspection.

Include every row in the test drive

Have the regular passengers try their seats. Check air-conditioning, support, noise and comfort over representative roads. If a third row will be used frequently, treat it as part of the normal cabin—not an occasional bonus.

Finally, compare the complete running cost. A suitable family car should fit the household budget as comfortably as it fits the household.