Looking for a good family car

[JackPeltz]

Hi Everyone,

I have two daughters who will be in forward facing car seats soon, and we are thinking about getting a new car.  We need a car that is big enough to fit the kids and luggage, but the main goal is to get something that does very well on gas.  We currently have a Subaru Outback and Forester.  Any thoughts?  Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

[leftcoast_trillium]

You might try the family safety forum for more suggestions, but I'll just point out that even mainstream recommendations are now to keep your children rear facing for as long as possible (my 2 year old still rear faces). I know it might be harder with an older sib, but it really is the best for them.

On the car front, we've been eying the Sportwagen TDI from VW. The milage (40 mpg hiway) looks really good but they're impossible to find used (people must like theirs) and buying a new car is nearly against my religion.

[lifeguard]

Dh & I are both tall so that influences our thinking significantly. We have found that the only vehicles that really work WELL for carseats (ESPECIALLY RFING) are those that have room in the back seat for a large/tall adult to sit comfortably without impinging on the person in front.

[~Amy~]

I love my Mazda 5. I've got 2 car seats in it (one forward facing and one rear facing) and still have tons of room for my double stroller, groceries, etc and have the option of third row seating as well for going out with friends with kids, when family visits, etc. Every rear position has a tether anchor as well so I can put carseats wherever I need them. It was about the only third row/crossover/van-type vehicle with anchors in every position. And I love the sliding doors as well. Price is reasonable and it's great on gas.

[JackPeltz]

Thank you very much for this helpful info.  I'll be sure to check out the Mazda 5!