Need a family car? Here’s why a SEAT Leon might be best for you

Need a family car? Here’s why a SEAT Leon might be best for you.

 

When it comes to having a family, we all know they can come in all different shapes and sizes, as well as a wide range of needs.

What can be even more confusing is the thought of finding a suitable car that fits all of your precious cargo without feeling restricted or limited. Space for pushchair? Got the dog with you? Weekly shop? The list can be endless!

There are several types of family cars, all with their own benefits. Therefore, we have identified the key factors to look out for to find that perfect match.

Finding the Ideal Family Car:

Beginning your search can be quite daunting, so knowing what to look for can be crucial to finding the best family car. As any parent would, the biggest worry for any family buying a car would be ensuring the safety of everyone inside.

This is why we suggest conducting some research before buying your family car and getting a checklist at the ready, so you can get the most out of your vehicle.

Here is what we would recommend to look out for.

Excellent safety rating:

The Euro NCAP created a five-star safety rating system to advise drivers, families and businesses by comparing vehicles more easily and helping them identify the safest choice for their needs. The rating is determined by a series of tests on each car that represents real-life issues, such as accidents. Therefore, when looking at a car’s safety rating, the more stars – the better.

So make sure you take the time to browse through the Euro NCAP ratings and the car’s safety features to guarantee maximum security.

Reliability:

Running a little errand, taking the kids to a doctor’s appointment, nipping for the supermarket shop can all require the use of a car. Finding a reliable vehicle is essential to avoid any unforeseen breakdowns, especially if the kids are in the back. Newer cars can offer more reliability as they have less wear and tear on them, but that shouldn’t put you off the thought of a used car. Used cars are still perfect, as long as you check the history of the car prior to purchase (number of owners, miles on the clock, involvement in any accidents in the past).

Practical for all your needs:

No family is the same, which means requirements may differ in terms of what specifications are needed in a vehicle. The first to think about is the number of seats you’re going to need. A growing brood may require a minimum of five seats, with the consideration of looking at a seven-seater family car. More importantly, if you have a young family, make sure to check that the vehicle has Isofix slots to accommodate your child car seats.

Furthermore, the amount of available space is a major factor to take into consideration. Not only will you require space for each passenger, but having a boot big enough for prams, pets and shopping bags could benefit those short errands, long trips away with the kids and everything in between. Ideally, you want to look for a minimum of 300 litres in the boot to provide you with enough room that you won’t be struggling to get everything in and out when you decide to go out.

Affordability:

One last thing to consider when buying your family car is affordability. Family cars can be a bit more expensive, but that doesn’t mean they can’t fit within your budget. If you think splitting the costs across monthly payments could suit your family in the best way, motor companies can offer finance packages tailored to fit around everything you may need.

Best Family Car Option – The SEAT Leon.

You might be reading this and thinking “how do I get a car that fits all of these?” – but don’t worry, we have the answer.

The SEAT Leon is our top contender for a family car. Why? Well…

To begin with, the hatchback is large enough to be practical, yet compact enough to be easy and enjoyable to drive – a perfect mixture for a family car. Behind the wheel, even with standard petrol or diesel engines under the bonnet, it feels involved, handles well and offers little in the way of body roll. FR models also get a sportier suspension setup that improves the drive further, though it is partially at the expense of comfort.

Family cars aren’t renowned for being attractive, but the SEAT Leon offers families a sharp and youthful look to stand out from the rest. It doesn’t matter if you buy a new or used SEAT Leon, you can still expect the same outstanding style throughout the range and years.

Additionally, for the second year in a row, the SEAT Leon 1.5 TSI 130 Evo FR has won best Family Car in the What Car? Car of the Year Awards, a highly respected accolade. What Car? recognised the SEAT Leon for its long list of positive attributes, including practicality. On a standard SEAT Leon, the luggage capacity is available with 380 litres – easily enough space for prams and bags.

One more of SEAT’s best assets is affordability, and the Leon remains one of the most affordable cars in this segment. Standard equipment is very generous, too, with keyless start, LED headlights and an 8.25-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring included. You also get cruise control, front assist and rear parking sensors to name just a few of the features included.

If you’re looking for a family car but not sure where to start, it is always best to start with a list of needs you require to best assist your family, such as those we’ve listed here.