finding a vehicle for a growing family

Whenever you're out shopping for a new car, there are so many options to consider. How do you narrow down such a long list of options? Below you'll find a few tips that can help you choose the car that will fit your needs for the next several years.

Choose the Make

You probably have an idea about what make of car you want. For example, if you've already owned a Subaru for the past ten years and loved it, you're probably going to start looking at new Subarus before you look at any other make. However, if you've owned a Dodge for the last ten years and it gave you nothing but problems, you're probably going to want to avoid buying another Dodge—choose the make that you know will treat you well.

Choose the Type

What type of vehicle do you want? Are you looking for something larger than you already have, smaller, or maybe the same size?

If you're currently driving a van but don't need all of that space, maybe it's time to downsize to a mid-size sports utility vehicle (SUV). If you're currently driving a sedan and need more space for kids, it might be time to upgrade to a van or full-size SUV.

You have to decide how much space you'll need. Only then can you make a decision about the type of vehicle that will meet your needs.

Consider Terrain and Road Conditions

What are the driving conditions like in your area? If you are constantly on roads that are riddled with potholes, aren't paved, or are just awful to drive on, a small car will not be a good choice for you. You'll need something that has the suspension designed to withstand the abuse that you'll be putting the car through each time you drive on those rough roads.

If your area is hit with heavy snow throughout the winter, consider investing in something with four-wheel-drive. No, this doesn't make it possible to go out in the worst winter weather, but the four-wheel-drive will help you get around when your little car will not have done the job.

If you're a city dweller and road conditions aren't much of a problem, you'd probably do best to stick with something small that is easy to get in and out of those tiny parking spaces in the city.

Talk with your local auto dealer for assistance with choosing the vehicle that will meet all of your needs for the next several years.