Whether you want a full-sized SUV or a compact, picking a family vehicle can be intimidating. Luckily, it does not have to be that way as long as you know which features matter most. Here are a few things to keep an eye on while searching for a new family vehicle this year.
1. Backup Cameras
Today, most new cars come with a backup camera, and it’s a good thing they do. According to NHTSA.gov, these devices have prevented many backover crashes. Usually, when you are backing up, the rearview mirror is what you must rely on. However, you can look at the infotainment screen to get a clear view of what’s behind the car nowadays. Rearview video systems have been a requirement on new vehicles since May 1, 2018. Plus, they have been designed to show a wider camera angle, preventing even more crashes. Tests showed that many backover crashes happened because something came from the side. Yet, you can see if another driver is on their way if the car has a wide-angle lens on its camera.
2. Forward Collision Alerts
Today, many cars include forward collision warning technologies. In addition, a bunch of them include collision mitigation technologies now. These use sensors to detect when a car is ahead of you on the road, and they can mitigate crashes by applying the brakes. Visit a Mitsubishi dealership in Baton Rouge and ask them to test drive the 2021 Outlander Sport. It’s incredibly safe since it includes forward collision detection as a standard feature. Additionally, the designers made it with lane-departure warning technologies, further enhancing safety.
3. Electronic Stability Control
Don’t get a car that was made prior to 2011 unless it has an ESC system installed. These have been a requirement since September 1, 2011, so you shouldn’t need to look hard for a car with it. Electronic stability control systems help to minimize spin-outs as well as plow-outs. Furthermore, they can redirect power from the engine to specific wheels if they slip. As a result, you can expect better traction when driving on slippery or wet roads. This can make a huge difference if you live somewhere with lots of snow, rain, or sleet. One example would be the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, which comes with ESC as standard. Also, the engineers designed it with lane-keep assist technologies to further improve handling. These tools have made the Mitsubishi Outlander such a popular choice for families.
4. 5-Star Safety Ratings
Another factor to monitor when looking at family cars is their safety rating. These are part of NHTSA’s evaluation program, and they tell you much about a car’s safety. To start, they test how a vehicle handles in frontal crash scenarios. They sit a human-sized dummy in the driver seat and send the car into a barrier at 35 MPH. Then, they examine how much damage was done after the crash. On top of frontal collisions, they also test side barrier crashes as well as side pole crashes. Nevertheless, cars must be tested with other vehicles from the same class for a fair rating. If you are looking at an SUV, check out its performance on the rollover resistance test scenario too. This checks how readily top-heavy vehicles tip over when cornering at 55 MPH.
5. 3rd-Row Seating
Depending on the size of your family, 3rd-row seating may be non-negotiable. If your family has more than 2 or 3 kids, you’ll need somewhere for them to sit while on road trips. Moreover, they will probably want to bring friends along to the movies or elsewhere. For example, the 2021 Buick Enclave has a stunning 3rd-row, complete with amenities. Since it’s made with Smart Slide seating, it isn’t hard for kids to climb in the back. As a result, you can put them back there easily, or your family can haul tons of cargo. This midsize SUV is big enough to carry seven people comfortably, which is plenty for most trips.
How to Pick a New Family Vehicle
Assistive tech has advanced a ton, from collision mitigation to lane departure warning. However, that doesn’t mean it’ll feel like an easy decision when shopping for a family vehicle. Hopefully, these tips will illuminate the decision and help you find the perfect ride.
