Top 10 Vehicles for Mothers
Women account for fifty percent of all new car purchases. This figure represents a seven percent increase since the early 1970's. Women now have tremendous buying power. Not only are they taken more seriously than ever before, women are also not intimidated by car salesmen or by the car-buying process.
When making the decision to buy a car, the biggest concern and the number one priority women have is for the safety of their children as passengers. They also want quality, reliable transportation at affordable prices, and also convenience and reliability to simplify their busy lives as mothers.
Here are 2008's 10 best cars for moms. Included are popular minivans and other terrific choices.
Dodge Grand Caravan.$30,680.
The spacious cabin seats seven. It is large enough to substitute for a playroom on wheels. Chrysler's 2008 model also includes the Cartoon Network and Disney channels which offers quite a nice distraction for the kids.
Unique Swivel 'n Go seats in the second row is a big hit. These cleverly designed seats can swivel around to face third rows seats, and then swivel again to face forward. A handy table opens between the two rows, which can be used to play games or have meals on.
The Dodge Caravan is highly rated in the government crash tests. Moms can be assured that their passengers are well protected upon impact crashes.
Toyota Prius.$21,100.
Known as the most famous hybrid, the Prius is ideal for busy moms who carpool or shuttle kids to various activities. Environmentally savvy parents appreciate Prius' excellent fuel consumption and low emissions. It's also an excellent choice for moms on a budget.
With a roomy interior, five people can be seated comfortably. The rear center seat would suit a slender person or child. Cargo space is small but ample.
Bluetooth connection enables drivers to communicate effectively using hands-free technology.
Dodge Caliber.$17,995.
The interior of cars can take a lot of battering and bruising from kids. But the Caliber is equipped with durable fabric seats that makes cleanup easy for moms. Stain-resistant fabrics can handle spills, stains, and mud.
Caliber's reliable steering control handles well in city driving and around corners. With easy handling, the Caliber drives more like a sedan than a mini SUV.
Important safety features include driver and passenger side-impact air bags and rear child safety door locks. Traction control and break assist' helps when drivers brake suddenly during winter driving or pressure situations.
The armrest has a unique a flip-up holster. This popular gadget stores iPod's and cell phones.
The van's cargo area is large enough to transport hockey equipment, groceries, knapsacks, diaper bags, and pets. A vinyl floor in the cargo is easily removed and washable.
Mazda 6$23,800.Mom looks cool driving this sporty mid-size sedan. The interior is nicely upholstered and stylish. This reasonably priced car is quiet and handles well.
Mazda 6 has standard safety features like ABS, airbags, alarm system, and power lock doors. The 22 cu. ft cargo is roomy enough to fit medium-sized furniture.Front seats are heated to keep you warm in the winter.
The steering wheel has volume controls for the radio that eliminates the need to reach down to adjust the volume. The steering wheel tilts and has a nice grip.
Storage bins on the dashboard holds small essentials like pens, paper, and baby wipes.
Ford Explorer.$26,010.
Transport up to seven kids who will find cup holders and cubbies throughout the cabin.
The DVD entertainment system keeps kids busy and entertained while mom focuses on her driving.
Ford designed a supreme high-tech Airbag Venting system. Upon impact, airbags are deflated with an effective, but less explosive force.
Feel secure with childproof rear door locks, crash sensors, and child-restrained systems. While carpooling, mom can use innovate voice-activated navigation that provide direction and call out street names.
With one touch of a button, you can easily fold down third-row seats while holding the baby.
Volvo V50.$50,995.
The V50 is a safe and reliable car. The redesigned cargo can hold groceries, strollers, and hockey equipment comfortably.
Volvo has outdone itself on V50's safety features. Utmost for moms are 5 three-point harnesses that provide maximum protection for child occupants. Also included are pedestrian sensors, whiplash protection, and mechanical child locks.
Well-designed, rear-facing booster seats are a bonus and a convenience. Boosters can accommodate three preschool children weighing up to 30 pounds.
Honda Civic.$15,010.
For small families with limited budgets, the Civic is a good pick. Civic's are small but roomy enough for a compact car. It's also affordable and has excellent gas mileage.
The currant Civic is powerful and offers excellent braking and steering. It's easy to drive and maneuvers well around corners. There's adequate trunk space to suit the needs of a small family.
The interior is simple but functional. Storage cubbies and holders are located in the front armrest and are easily accessible from the rear. Civic's are available as coupes or 4-door sedans.
Honda Odyssey Minivan.$24,860.
The Odyssey is a good performer. Highly rated, it was chosen as the favorite of many moms because of numerous safety features. Features include traction control, anti-lock disc brakes, fog lights, and parking sensors. The sophisticated side-curtain airbags includes a rollover sensor.
Crash safety tests are good. An inventive tire-pressure monitor enables drivers with flat or punctured tires to continue driving safely until they can get help.
Seven passengers can be comfortably seated. Without backseat passengers, seats can be pushed forward to create more storage space. Moms like the built in sunshades on the side windows that offers kids sun protection.
Nissan Murano.$39,098.
The Murano is a mid-size SUV with a spacious, stylish interior.
Moms like the flip-down rear seats which allow kids to recline or take naps.
The stereo controls are high tech. One-touch preset buttons can select favorite radio stations quickly. The CD changer and sophisticated audio system are popular with teenagers.
A large center console easily holds a laptop. Cubbies are useful to store cell phone, cups, and coins. Door bins are large enough to store trash, maps, or magazines.
The Murano is built for five occupants. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo space swells to an enormous 81.6 cubic feet.
Ford Taurus.$23,485.
The Taurus is an old favorite. It's also a good option for moms who want a sedan with lots of legroom, wide bucket seats, and large trunk space.
Taurus is a trusted, reliable car without many extra frills. Dashboard panels are simple but easy to read. Crash test scores are excellent.
The interior is practical and has several small storage bins. Basic features have kept Taurus' prices low.
Moms have many choices when it comes to buying a car. The above list offers guidance in helping moms choose a car that suits the needs of their family.
