Best Family Car 2012

The family cars need to be spacious in order to accommodate more number of passengers. They must also have the necessary safety features. These cars are expected to have a good fuel economy. However, it is not just the fuel economy but features like sufficient interior space that hold importance. These cars are not designed for any single purpose (sports, luxury, etc). In short, family cars are no-nonsense automobiles manufactured for functionality rather than attractive design or power. The designing and overall development of family cars is therefore, carried out by taking into account a variety of factors. Here are some of the models of best family cars for 2012.

Top Family Cars for 2012
Here are a few popular car models suitable for use by families. The information should make you aware of the notable features of these vehicles.

Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is basically a hybrid car with the base engine size of 1.8 liter. Net power generated by hybrid and regular engine of this car is 134 hp. The Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) system is used in this hybrid vehicle. Steering mechanism of the car is based on Electric Power Steering (EPS). Fuel efficiency, enough space for passengers & cargo and safety features make the Toyota Prius a perfect car for families. The fuel economy for cities and highways is 40 mpg and 44 mpg respectively. Safety features include the Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control (TRAC), Smart Stop Technology (SST), Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH), Pre-Collision System (PCS), seat belt warning sensors for driver and passengers, etc. The Toyota Prius is designed for maximizing the cabin space. This car has a hatchback-styled body which helps increase the cargo space. The rear seats offer enough space for passengers and they also come with adjustable headrests. The starting price of Toyota Prius is $24,000.

Mazda 5
The 4-cylinder 2.5 liter DOHC engine of Mazda 5 generates 157 hp of power. The automatic speed transmission system has 5 levels while the manual one has 6 levels. This family SUV has 6 seats that are arranged in 3 rows. By folding the 3rd row, a 44.4 cubic feet space can be created for cargo. Some of the features meant for comfort and convenience are automatic climate control (that also filters pollens), Bluetooth hands-free phone, power door locks (2-stage unlocking), covered visor vanity mirrors, illuminated entry, etc. The safety features of Mazda 5 include the protection offered by 5 airbags, Triple 'H' Construction and other advanced safety features. The Triple 'H' Construction enhances the structural rigidity thereby, increasing the strength of critical areas of the vehicle. Standard Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) are amongst the advanced safety features. The fuel economy in city conditions and highways is 21 mpg and 28 mpg respectively. Starting price of Mazda 5 is $19,600.

Ford Focus
The 2.0L Ti-VCT GDI I-4 engine of Ford Focus generates a power of 160 hp. This car comes with 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic speed transmission systems. The latest technological features like hands-free Sync, Automated Parking Assist, MyFord Touch system, etc. come at a relatively lower price in the Ford Focus. The MyFord Touch system doesn't bring with it the clutter of buttons and knobs; instead, it comes with a touchscreen and is operated with voice commands. Seating capacity is 5 while the total passenger volume which can be accommodated in the vehicle is 90.7 cubic feet; trunk volume is 13.2 cubic feet. Comfort and convenience features of the Ford Focus include the power door locks, front door storage bins, illuminated entry, dome lamps, air filtration system, manual climate control, etc. In all, the interiors of this vehicle are stylish and spacious enough for families. The fuel economy is one factor which makes Ford Focus one of the best family cars. A mileage of 26 mpg and 36 mpg is obtained in city conditions and highways respectively. Starting price of the Ford Focus SE (5-Door) is $18,300.

Kia Optima
The 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine of Kia Optima generates a power of 200 hp. The turbocharged 2.0 liter engine generates 274 hp of power. It is not a run-of-mill, unattractive kind of family car, but possesses good looks as well as the desired functionality. Trims available in Kia Optima include the LX, EX, EX Turbo, SX and Hybrid. The manual six-speed transmission system is standard for the LX trim while for every other trim, the six-speed automatic transmission system is used. A four-way power passenger seat, panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, heated and ventilated front seats, driver memory functions are the features available for EX and SX trims. The Uvo electronics interface system is available in all trims except the LX. Safety features of this car include the traction and stability control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, side airbags, etc. Fuel economy of all other trims except the Hybrid model is 24 mpg and 34 mpg in cities and on highways respectively. For the Hybrid trim of Kia Optima, the fuel economy is 35 mpg and 40 mpg in cities and highways respectively. Starting price of the Kia Optima is $19,500.

Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is basically a minivan suited for large families. The 4-cylinder 16 valve Dual VVT-i 2.7 liter engine generates a power of 187 hp. The Toyota Sienna has an Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission system with 6 levels. This vehicle comes in both the AWD and FWD drivetrains. The AWD feature is especially useful for those who have to frequently drive through snow and rain. A quiet and smooth ride can be enjoyed in the Toyota Sienna. This vehicle is meant for seating 7-8 passengers depending on the model. The fuel economy figures for city conditions and highways are 19 mpg and 24 mpg respectively. Starting price of the Toyota Sienna is $25,000.

Here are more options for those looking for family cars. These cars are categorized in different groups like sedans, crossovers, fuel-efficient cars, etc.

Fuel Efficient Cars

• Honda Civic Hybrid
• Chevrolet Cruze Eco

Crossovers

• Honda CR-V
• Kia Sorento

Sedans

• Toyota Camry
• Volkswagen Passat

Large Cars

• Honda Odyssey
• Dodge Durango

Budget Cars

• Chevrolet Sonic
• Hyundai Elantra

Family cars are manufactured with the objective of offering performance as well as enough passenger & cargo space. Design and luxury features generally take a backseat in the process of designing such cars. However, there are exceptions like Kia Optima which pack in performance along with attractive design. Therefore, customers have many options in today's competitive automobile market. Make an appropriate choice by taking into account your budget and specific needs.