What Size Car Do You Really Need? | Forecasting Your Family’s Car Needs

Hey there, it's Kelly, The Car Mom! Today on the blog, we're diving into a topic that can be both exciting and nerve-wracking: family planning as it relates to picking the best-fitting car for your growing family. Believe it or not, this is often an overlooked detail in the car-buying process.

While family planning might not always be a straightforward journey, it's crucial to have a 3-5 year vision before you set foot in a dealership. Trust me, your future self will thank you for the foresight, and you may even realize you need a roomier car than you initially thought!

So buckle up as we explore the ins and outs of forecasting your family's growth to ensure you drive away with the car that fits you best—both now and in the years to come.

Understanding Your Needs

First, let's get that budget and shopping preference (new or preowned) out of the way. With those details settled, I’d like to introduce you to The Car Mom’s Needs Assessment Guide! This tool is usually used by dealerships to understand your requirements better. Why not do it ahead of time and be super prepared?

Take a few moments to catch up on what has changed in car technology and safety features since you last car-shopped. If lane keep assist is a must-have for you, write it down! Use this phase to leverage the salesperson’s full attention; trust me, they're more attentive before the sale than after!

I have about one-million reels, videos, and blogs all about the latest features in family cars. Here are a few of my favorites:

Setting Your Goals

So, you’re settled on your needs, but what are your goals with this car? Plan to drive it for just a few years or keep it until it can’t drive another mile? This is important, and here's why:

You might be expecting your first child and think an SUV like the mid-size Hyundai Santa Fe is perfect. You might even lock in a six-year loan! But what happens when baby number two or three is on the way? While it’s a nice car, it’s not possible to fit three kids across in Sante Fe which means you’re heading back to the dealership before your loan is paid off.

Exiting a car loan early is a headache you don’t need. So, sit down and envision the family roadmap for the car's lifespan.

Leasing as an Option

If you’re not sure about your long-term family size but think you might outgrow your current car choice, consider leasing. Yes, it's often frowned upon as not being economical, but for a growing family, it offers flexibility. You get an “out” every few years, making it easier to adapt to your changing needs.

The Family Planning Map

To avoid any remorse post-purchase, check out my newest free resource - the Family Planning Map. This simple worksheet prompts you to think through each year you plan to own the car. Where will everyone sit? What car seat hardware will you need? This exercise helps you decide between buying and leasing and makes it easier to narrow down your vehicle options.

Don’t Overlook Car Seat Logistics

Transitioning from infant seats to convertible seats and then to booster seats will change how much room you need. Planning to have multiple kids? You'll need a car that can accommodate various types and combinations of car seats. It might seem minor, but planning for this can save you thousands in the long run.

Creating Your Shortlist

Choosing the right car can be overwhelming, which is why I always recommend creating a short list. Limit it to five cars or fewer and do your homework - I’m here to help with that! Ask people about their cars, watch YouTube tours (I have plenty on my channel), and dive into safety ratings and consumer reviews. Owner forums are golden—real users share their likes and dislikes, helping you be a well-informed buyer.

After you’ve done your research, some cars will naturally fall off your list. Aim for the ones that check the most boxes on your needs assessment. And if you need to test-drive ten cars to be sure, by all means, do it! I typically suggest families test drive their top two or three choices.

Before Hitting the Dealership

You've got your shortlist and are about to set foot in a dealership. Excellent! But before you do, know that I offer 1-1 consultations through my course, How To Save At The Dealership, to help you navigate this crucial step.

Also, I can't emphasize enough how much I love Edmunds.com for its up-to-date inventory and user-friendly experience, both for new and preowned cars.

Take your time to consider not just your current needs but also how your family will grow. Factor in things like car seats and the length of time you plan to own the car. This thoughtful approach could save you from many future headaches and financial pitfalls. Happy car shopping!