Car seat needs drive majority of parents’ car buying decisions

Car seat compatibility is becoming even more of a driving factor in the car buying decision, giving SUVs a distinct advantage in the family vehicle market.

Driving the news: According to a new report from Cars.com, over 60% of parents now prioritize car seat fit when choosing their next vehicle, with some even bringing their own car seats to the dealership for a test fit.

Why it matters: As safety continues to dominate family purchasing decisions, SUVs that excel in car seat compatibility are gaining traction. Cars that not only meet but exceed safety expectations—especially in accommodating car seats—are quickly becoming top choices for families. 

SUVs are preferred for several reasons:

• They offer more interior space, ideal for accommodating car seats without compromising on comfort.

• The higher seating position in SUVs makes it easier for parents to place and remove children from car seats.

• SUVs often come with advanced safety systems and accessible Latch anchors for secure car seat installation.

• Many three-row SUVs can handle multiple car seats for growing families.

The 2024 Cars.com Best Cars for Car Seats Report highlights six standout SUVs:

• Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport: Spacious and designed for easy car seat installation.

• Subaru Crosstrek: Compact yet roomy, with a starting price of around $25,000.

• Volkswagen ID.4: All-electric and affordable after a recent 21% price drop.

• Lexus RX 450h+: A luxurious plug-in hybrid focused on safety.

• Nissan Pathfinder: A roomy, three-row SUV and Latch-friendly.

Of note: 5 of the 6 Best Cars for Car Seats models start at around $40,000 the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starting at around $25,000.

At the end of the day, car seat safety is a non-negotiable priority for parents. Stocking vehicles that perform well in car seat safety tests is just the start. Offering services like in-store seat fitting and having knowledgeable staff who can guide parents through the installation process can give dealerships the edge in a crowded market.

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