If you're expecting your first child, your priorities are definitely not now to scrap your old car and buy a new one. But when you make your first family outing, you'll discover that your old car doesn't fit in well with your new family life.
So what are the criteria according to which a new mum should choose her new car?
The points to look out for when buying your new car are:
Security
What all parents are interested in is to transport their children safely. So before you go ahead and buy a new car, check its rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme Euro NCAP, here )
The capacity of the boot
Is there enough room for the stroller, the trunk, the stroller and later the bicycle and the playpen? And what space is left for your luggage?
Five doors
That's because you don't want your back to catch every time you try to get the baby in or out of the car seat. And of course, to have easy and quick access to your spacious trunk. Above all, your new car should be functional.
Airbags that are deactivated
The child seat must always be placed in the rear seats but with the airbags deactivated. In any case, even if you have to put the baby in the front seat, make sure that the airbag, especially the side airbag, is deactivated.
Isofix system
The Isofix system has special connectors for attaching child seats with greater ease and safety. These are essentially two metal points located in the two rear seats of the car cabin for greater stability of the child seat in the event of a collision.
And something different: Volvo has redesigned the interior of one of its models with the child seat in mind
Many storage spaces
When there are children in the family even the car should have enough storage space. You will remember us when you make your first trip and you will need somewhere to put the bottle, pacifier, children's CDs, toys, water bottle, etc.
Will your baby's things fit in the luggage compartment? One of the key questions you should ask yourself in front of your "prospective" car is
You'll notice, reading through our list of "picks" that most are compact crossover SUVs. The main reason we recommend them, is that due to the fact that they have high and horizontal roofs, they make a mother's "life" easier, as it is easier to get babies and children in/out, as well as child seats (due to space), and they have more room for "accessories" such as a stroller. Besides, modern SUVs "wear" small displacement engines, are easy to drive and have low fuel consumption.
We recommend
So with that in mind, here are the top cars for mums (in random order), as we've chosen them. To read more information about the cars, such as prices, equipment, engines, financing plans, etc., just click on the links. Don't forget that "out there" there are dozens of options in all sizes and all budgets and that before you choose the one that suits you, you have the opportunity - in most companies - to drive it.
Skoda Yeti
The Yeti is one of the most reliable cars you can buy. You can choose two or four-wheel drive, depending on whether you prefer more economy or more traction. You can also choose from a range of petrol or diesel engines.
Learn here more about the Yeti.
Nissan Qashqai
It is no coincidence that it is a global and Greek best seller. This car combines the best elements of two different worlds. It has the fuel consumption of a city car with the comfort and aplomb of a 4×4 vehicle. It is reliable, has many safety systems and has low running and maintenance costs.
Learn here more about Qashqai. And read here our own test drive.
Citroen C4 Cactus
It is an incredibly economical family car, thanks to its low fuel consumption, modern and functional design and comfortable interiors. Besides, it is the only one with speedbumps that absorb the "small shocks" when opening the door, or when parking carelessly.
Learn here more about the Citroen C4 Cactus.And read here our own test drive.
Jeep Renegade
As soon as it came to Greece, it became a hit, boosting Jeep sales by 1.234% in one year! Externally and internally, it has the looks and prestige of a Jeep, except that it is available with economical, fuel-efficient engines from 1,400cc. Besides, its designers have "hidden" surprises inside and out to keep you and your kiddo entertained. It's available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions and in a beautiful orange colour. It's probably the most youthful of our choices.
Learn here more about the Jeep Renegade.And read here our own test drive.
Fiat 500X
It is the "little brother" of the Renegade, with a different design. Women love it because of the Italian refinement in its design. It is - and it is - comfortable, fully equipped and safe.
Learn here more about the Fiat 500X.And read here our own test drive.
BMW 218d Active Tourer
Who can say no to a BMW? This Bavarian achievement is the first car of this brand with front-wheel drive. It has a different design, incredible space, awesome handling and, of course, quality and comfort befitting a BMW. Alternatively, there's also the option of the all-electric i3 from the same company.
Learnhere more about the BMW 218d Active Tourer.And read here our own test drive.
Volvo XC60
The... Swedes are coming back. Something a little more massive. The majesty of its exterior, but more importantly the luxury of its interior, is incredible. One of the finest quality cars you can buy. And in terms of space and layout, nothing else...
Learn here more about the Volvo XC60. And read here our own test drive.
Mercedes GLA
More compact, but lacking nothing in luxury. In any case, the star on the bonnet is a "guarantee" in itself.
Learn here more about the Mercedes GLA.
Mitsubishi ASX
Another car that is renowned for its safety and reliability. It offers travel comfort, a high driving position and very good visibility. On the plus side are its incomparably competitive prices.
Learn here more about Mitsubishi ASX
Renault Captur
The Captur is beautiful, it's convenient and ecological, but it's also economical. And, despite being "rich" in space, on the outside, it's one of the smallest and most convenient crossovers.
Learn here more about Renault Captur.
