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Need a family ride? SA's top Mommy Cars

<b>GREAT MOMS' TAXI:</b> The new Mazda CX-5, launched earlier in SA, is named as of one of SA's top family cars by Imperial Auto. <i>Image: Mazda</i>
<b>GREAT MOMS' TAXI:</b> The new Mazda CX-5, launched earlier in SA, is named as of one of SA's top family cars by Imperial Auto. <i>Image: Mazda</i>

When you're expecting a child it quickly becomes clear that those sporty two-door cars perfect for the DINKy (double income no kids) life are no longer practical.

From bulging nappy bags when they’re tiny, to big school bags and sports kit when they’re older, children come with a lot of baggage.

Some key questions you should be asking when considering a new family car include safety rating, whether its seats are easy to clean, and whether the boot can accommodate a pram, shopping and a huge bag of toys.

TOP FAMILY RIDES

Imperial Auto has compiled its top family vehicles in SA.

The vehicle-listing company said: "It’s worth noting that none of the vehicles is a boxy hatchback such as many moms felt compelled to buy in the past. They’re all smart, sexy and offer a whole lot of fun. Just like moms, really."

See if you agree with Imperial's assessments below. If you have other ideas, email them to us with your choice and a concise explanation why.

VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

Imperial Auto said: "The new Jetta is more stylish and dynamic than its predecessors, and combines responsive steering with refined handling for maximum driving enjoyment – no matter who is in the car with you."

"Technology add-ons include satnav and parking sensors, helping with those awkward moments when one needs a little extra assistance getting into a bay."

Its available with cloth or leather seats and the sedan can be painted in a choice of eight colours.

The new Jetta achieved a five-star Euro NCAP security rating and is sold with a five year or 90 000km service plan.

Prices start from R259 900
Power: 77kW at 5000 rpm
Torque: 175Nm @ 1500 – 4000 rpm
Carbon emissions: 134g/km
Fuel tank: 55 litres
Yummy mummy rating: Solid, sensible and a boot that's big enough to fit the whole nursery.

MAZDA CX-5

Mazda's CX-5 has been revised in 2015 sporting new engines and exterior tweaks including 19" alloy rims. The CX5's four cylinder 2.0 litre petrol has a claimed fuel consumption of 6.4 litres/100km.

Imperial Auto said: "The crossover is powerful and athletic in appearance, with elegant lines and graceful details, setting it apart from other vehicles within the SUV class. Smart systems save fuel, while technology inside the cabin keeps you in touch with the world through concert quality Bose speakers."

"Don’t think you’re going to forget to secure your seatbelts (and those of your children) because it simply won’t let you!"

The CX-5 has, the automaker says, a multi-load path structure to redirect crash energy away from the cabin and is equipped with six air bags. It has dynamic stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake-force distribution and electronic brake assist.

It's sold with three-year roadside assistance, a three year service plan and five-year corrosion warranty.

Prices start from R319 500
Power: from 121kW at 6000 rpm
Torque: from 210Nm at 4000 rpm
Emissions: 149 g/km
Fuel tank: 56 litres
Yummy-mummy rating: Super sexy and fun – the power of an SUV with the handling of a sports car

TOYOTA AVANZA

Imperial Auto said: "The Toyota Avanza is available in 1.3 litre and 1.5 models, including the 1.5 SX auto, for added driving pleasure. Roomy and sleek, the Toyota Avanza can seat up to seven people comfortably, meaning that granny and grandpa can come along on weekend trips too."

All units are equipped with power steering, power windows and aircon. The Avanza  is sold with a four-year or 60 000km service plan with an option to extend.

From R196 800
Power: 67kW @ 6 000 r/min
Torque: 117Nm @ 4400 r/min
Carbon emissions: 172 g/km
Fuel tank: 45 litres
Yummy mummy rating: Perfectly practical for a big family

FORD TOURNEO CUSTOM

Imperial Auto said: "The Ford Tourneo Custom elevates family travel to a new level of luxury. Seating eight passengers in comfort and style, with the longwheel-base model offering super luggage capacity, the Tourneo Custom has been engineered for durability and tested for toughness.

"Its eight-way adjustable driver’s seat makes sure that the most important person – the mom behind the wheel – is as comfortable as can be."

The Tourneo Custom's seats can be moved in several configurations. Its interior materials can, Ford says, "minimise the risk of an allergic reaction".

Able to tow up to 1600kg, the Tourneo Custom is the great for holiday trips, while Ford's SYNC system allows voice-commands for the vehicles audio and telephone connectivity.

Prices from R437 900
Power: from 74kW at 3500 rpm
Torque: from 310Nm at 1300 rpm
Carbon emissions: 172g/km
Fuel tank: 80 litres

Yummy mummy rating: Big, bold, and ready to move the whole family wherever they need to be.

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