Expecting a new addition to the family and need a bigger car? Or is your old runabout finally showing its age and needing an upgrade? Either way, it may be time to get a new family car. But with an overwhelming number of SUVs and vans for sale, how do you decide?
Discover what to look for when buying a family ride and our list of the best family cars available in New Zealand in 2023.
What to Look for When Buying a Family Car
A Spacious Interior
Picture this: a family car with enough room to fit your entire crew without turning into a human jigsaw puzzle. We’re talking about a spacious interior that gives everyone breathing room and keeps the “he’s touching me!” complaints to a minimum.
Think about the number of passengers you need to transport regularly, from the little rugrats to the grandparents who always tag along. And remember all the stuff you need to lug around – strollers, groceries, soccer balls, and whatever else life throws at you. Look for a car that offers enough space to accommodate all that and more so you’re ready for anything the road throws your way.
Safety First, Always
We all know that nothing matters more than the safety of your loved ones. The best family cars will have advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist, collision avoidance systems, and multiple airbags. After all, peace of mind is priceless!
Entertainment and Connectivity
Long family trips are made even more fun with entertainment and connectivity features. Look for cars with rear-seat entertainment systems, Wi-Fi, USB ports, and Bluetooth. Transform the backseat into a movie theatre or gaming hub, keeping everyone entertained for miles. Stay connected with Wi-Fi and charge devices with USB ports. No more boredom or tangled cords! With these features, you can forget the “Are we there yet?” and enjoy endless fun on the road!
Fuel Efficiency Fun
Let’s face it—gas prices aren’t getting any cheaper. Choose a car with impressive fuel efficiency to save those precious pennies for more fun-filled family outings. Plus, you’ll be doing your part for our planet too!
Reliability and Durability
When it comes to family cars, you need a trusty sidekick that can handle the chaos of everyday life without breaking a sweat. Research the vehicle’s reliability ratings, customer reviews, and manufacturer warranties to gain insight into its long-term dependability. Consider factors such as build quality, brand reputation, and after-sales service support to ensure a hassle-free ownership experience.
Our Favourite Family Cars of 2023
Mazda CX-5
SUVs have taken the crown from station wagons as the reigning champs of family cars in New Zealand. These giants are big and stylish and give you that incredible ‘command position’ – perfect for a family that craves a little bit of everything.
The Mazada CX-5 has everything you love about an SV but just does it better. With its sleek looks and first-rate interior materials, this SUV oozes sophistication at every turn. The modern infotainment systems will keep you connected and entertained on the road. And let’s not forget about the impressive power under the hood, especially if you go all-in with the premium model. But even if you opt for the standard version, rest assured that the Mazda CX-5 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, no matter where your journey takes you.
Toyota Highlander
We’re fairly spoilt for choice when looking for the best family car in NZ, but the Toyota Highlander has distinguished itself from the competition.
The Toyota Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, advanced safety features, and a reputation for reliability. With seating up to eight passengers, it’s perfect for driving the whole family around. The Highlander also boasts impressive fuel efficiency with petrol or hybrid models available, making it a practical and well-rounded option.
Nissan Leaf
Not every family needs the space of an SUV; some prefer to travel light, which is where the Nissan Leaf comes in. The Nissan Leaf is like a breath of fresh air for families who want to go green and turn heads while doing it! With its all-electric powertrain, this dynamic ride leaves zero emissions in its wake, making every journey an eco-friendly adventure.
Mazda 6
We ask a lot from our family cars. They tackle school runs, shopping trips, work commutes, and more. And the Mazda 6 ticks all these boxes! With its impressive 5-star safety rating and features like blind-spot monitoring, smart city brake support, and lane keep assist, it’s adaptable, safe, and the perfect family car for those seeking both practicality and elegance.
Hit the Road with the Whole Family Thanks to Portage Cars
With so much to see and do across Aotearoa, you’ll want the best family car for ferrying the whole crew. If you’re searching for a new family vehicle, check out our extensive range and buy your new NZ car from Portage Cars today!
