I've just started researching new cars and would love to hear any experiences or opinions (good, bad, or indifferent) on the Toyota Prius V, VW Jetta Sportwagen, Ford C-Max, and Subaru Impreza wagon (or Outback) -- both from a Child Passenger Safety perspective and overall utility/value.
In particular, is 3-across possible in all of these vehicles? We only have 2 children but want to be sure of having enough space for the occasional friend or mother-in-law. I have read previous posts on this forum that:
- Subarus have issues with the middle seat
- the Prius V has plastic hinge covers on the seats that interfere with some carseats
Any other things to watch out for? Or suggestions of other similar vehicles that are fuel-efficient and relatively affordable, but give a little more space than a typical sedan?
Our current Honda Civic is great and the trunk is *just* big enough for all of our luggage for a short trip, including stroller and Pack-&-Play, but it does seem like we could use more space as the kids grow older. They're currently 5years old (FF in a Radian XTSL) and almost-2 (RF in a Britax Marathon).
In particular, is 3-across possible in all of these vehicles? We only have 2 children but want to be sure of having enough space for the occasional friend or mother-in-law. I have read previous posts on this forum that:
- Subarus have issues with the middle seat
- the Prius V has plastic hinge covers on the seats that interfere with some carseats
Any other things to watch out for? Or suggestions of other similar vehicles that are fuel-efficient and relatively affordable, but give a little more space than a typical sedan?
Our current Honda Civic is great and the trunk is *just* big enough for all of our luggage for a short trip, including stroller and Pack-&-Play, but it does seem like we could use more space as the kids grow older. They're currently 5years old (FF in a Radian XTSL) and almost-2 (RF in a Britax Marathon).
