Car seats are a crucial consideration for many parents when purchasing a new vehicle. In fact, over 60% of parents surveyed by car-shopping marketplace Cars.com stated that car seats play a pivotal role in their decision-making process. To help parents navigate this important aspect of car shopping, Cars.com has released its 2024 Best Cars for Car Seats Report. This report evaluates which vehicles easily and safely accommodate car seats for growing families, providing a valuable resource for current and expecting parents.
According to Jennifer Geiger, Cars.com news editor and certified child passenger safety technician, the Best Cars for Car Seats Report helps parents narrow down potential vehicles, empowering them to make the right decision for their family. As a mother of three children, Geiger understands the frustrations that can come with car seat installation. She notes that parents who bring a car seat to the dealership are proactive and likely to save themselves some additional stress during the car-buying process.
In the 2024 Best Cars for Car Seats Report, only six vehicles were deemed worthy of top spots, and all of them were SUVs. Surprisingly, half of these top vehicles were from Volkswagen, showcasing the brand’s commitment to family-friendly features. The top-performing models include:
– Volkswagen Atlas
– Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
– Volkswagen ID.4
– Subaru Outback
– Subaru Crosstrek
– Jeep Grand Cherokee
These vehicles were selected based on their ability to accommodate various types of car seats and provide a safe and comfortable environment for families on the go. For a complete list of vehicles tested, interested readers can visit Cars.com/News/Car-Seat-Check.
In addition to their family-friendly features, five of the six top vehicles were also recent honorees on Cars.com’s 2024 American-Made Index. This recognition highlights their contribution to the American automotive industry and supports local manufacturing. For budget-conscious families, the Volkswagen ID.4 stands out as an attractive option, with a 21% decrease on Cars Commerce’s New Car Price Index. Furthermore, five of the six Best Cars for Car Seats models start at around $40,000, making them accessible for families looking for a competitively priced vehicle. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is particularly budget-friendly, starting at around $25,000, nearly $11,000 below the median category price for compact SUVs.
The methodology behind the Cars.com 2024 Best Cars for Car Seats Report involves comprehensive Car Seat Checks conducted by the platform’s team of experts over a 12-month period. Each check is performed by a certified child passenger safety technician who installs three types of car seats (infant, convertible, and high-back booster) into each new vehicle. The technician evaluates the vehicle’s Latch system and how well it accommodates the different car seats. Cars.com tests vehicles as they become available from automakers, ensuring that the information is up-to-date and relevant for consumers.
In conclusion, the Best Cars for Car Seats Report from Cars.com provides valuable insights for parents looking to purchase a family-friendly vehicle. With a focus on safety, comfort, and affordability, the top-performing SUVs offer a range of options for families of all sizes. By considering these recommendations, parents can make informed decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of their children while on the road.