SUV Shopping Tips: ISOFIX Points & Family-Friendly Features
When shopping for a family SUV, parents often overlook crucial safety features like ISOFIX points. These anchor points secure car seats safely to the vehicle, and having enough of them is vital for families with multiple children. Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, shares tips to ensure a safe and convenient SUV purchase.
Parents should test the SUV's seating layout with their actual car seats to ensure a proper fit. They should also consult the owner's manual to locate and understand any restrictions on ISOFIX points. Directly asking dealers about ISOFIX points and considering family growth plans can help parents make an informed decision.
Many popular SUVs come with only two ISOFIX points, typically in the outer rear seats. This can prevent families with three children or those who regularly transport additional cars from installing all necessary car seats safely. For instance, the Audi A6 e-tron has only two ISOFIX mounts, which may not be sufficient for larger families. Alternatives like the Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y offer more space and safety features, including multiple ISOFIX mounts, making them suitable for families with several children.
To ensure safety and convenience, parents should prioritize checking the number and location of ISOFIX points when buying an SUV. Other family-friendly features to consider include boot space accessibility, rear climate controls, independent air conditioning zones, storage solutions, sliding doors, window shades, and multiple USB charging points. By considering these factors, parents can make a more informed decision when choosing an SUV for their growing family.