Safety is an important consideration in choosing a family automobile. Consumer Reports carefully reviews data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to ensure that each vehicle on their checklist has the highest overall safety rating. Whether you're looking for a compact car or a spacious SUV, a safety-conscious buyer will find the best options on our list.
Skoda
Skoda is an excellent choice if you are looking for a family vehicle. The cars of the company are safe and luxurious. The cars come with safety features, such as ABS with EBD (hill ascent and descent), cruise control, and air conditioners.
Skoda Octavia
The Skoda Octavia is one of the best family cars available. The MQB platform makes it practical without compromising on quality. It has a large boot (590 litres for the hatchback, and 610 litres for the estate). The rear seats also have great head and legroom. It lives up to Skoda's reputation for excellent handling and value for the money.
Skoda Tiguan
Skoda Tiguan is a family-friendly car with all the necessary features. It has a 1.5-litre engine that produces 150hp. The diesel engine is larger and produces 150 PS. All-wheel drive is also an option for the Tiguan.
Volkswagen Touran
The Volkswagen Touran is a spacious and comfortable car for a family of seven. Its large seats provide ample headroom and legroom. The second row of the Touran can be folded up individually. The second row features ISOFIX points, which allow for the fitting of child car seats. The third row can also be easily flipped up/down.
Kia Soul
For the 2011 model year, the Kia Soul received several facelifts that gave it a more traditional appearance. The Kia Soul's front lights have been increased and it looks more boxy than the previous model. The Soul GT-Line is for those who want a sportier look. It features unique wheel designs and body-color trim. It comes standard with an assortment of driver aids including automatic emergency brake, lane-keeping assistant, and rear cross traffic alert.
SEAT Leon
The SEAT Leon is one of the best family cars available on the market. It was launched in 2012 as part the Type 5F-series. In 2017, it received a facelift. It is very stylish and fun to drive. It can be purchased with additional media tech and a 3-cylinder petrol engine. Or, you can opt for the Cupra 300 model.
FAQ
Is it worth being a mechanic.
The answer depends on what you are looking for in life. If money is your goal, then you can answer "yes". But if you are searching for meaning and purpose, then you should not answer this question.
You don't need to be a mechanic if you don't know how. It won't make you wealthy. It will not make you famous. It is unlikely that you will be made famous.
You'd need to spend years learning how everything works. Also, you would need to hire someone else to fix it if it broke down. Most people won't bother to do it. They find something better.
Let's sum it up: If you want to make a lot of money, then do so. However, if you want to have a meaningful and fulfilling life, avoid the mechanic's trade.
What does it matter which college I attend?
You're wrong. There are no differences between colleges when it comes to getting into the automotive industry. However, some schools offer better programs than others so if you're looking for something more specialized, look elsewhere.
Is it easy to get a job as an automotive mechanic?
It is possible. Many garages have vacancies that are advertised online. Many people apply because they think it will be fun. If you want to get your foot in the door, you should try applying for a few places and see if they accept student applications. Another option is to ask family members and friends if anyone works in this industry. They may be happy to recommend someone.
What can I do to fix my car as an hobby?
If you are interested in cars, why not take it on as a hobby? You can repair them, buy their parts, sell them, or just have fun with them. It's a fun hobby that you can do if it interests you.
However, it's not easy to turn this into a full-time career. It takes dedication and hardwork. It requires a lot investment.
So unless you have a good reason for wanting to get involved with cars, then it might be best to leave it alone.
What is the difference in a mechanic and an auto technician?
Although they may be similar, they are not identical. A mechanic repairs cars while an automotive technician does maintenance on them.
A mechanic must be skilled in manual dexterity and able to complete simple tasks quickly. They must also be able to diagnose problems accurately and repair them effectively.
A technician in automotive is more technical than a mechanic. They must be able to read blueprints and use tools such as drills and wrenches.
They must also be able perform complex procedures safely. They must be familiar with all types of electrical and engine systems.
They must also be able to understand how various parts interact with each other.
This means that mechanics usually make less money than automotive technicians. But there are many opportunities for both jobs.
How long does an apprenticeship in automotive mechanics last?
A three-year apprenticeship in automotive mechanics takes. This includes two years at school and two years working as an apprentice. The first year is used to learn all aspects of the trade including safety procedures and theory. You'll also learn how tools can be used safely and efficiently during this year. After completing the first year, you'll then spend another year on-the-job training where you'll gain experience in different areas of the trade. These are also the times you can attend formal courses.
The final year is dedicated to earning certifications and qualifications in the field. These include NVQs. They are awarded after passing exams on specific topics within the industry. The HNCs (Higher National Certificates), on the other hand, cover general subjects like customer service and management. For those interested in pursuing certain trades, City & Guilds certificates are available.
Is automotive mechanic a promising career?
The automotive industry is full of exciting opportunities for those who are dedicated to excellence. You can only succeed in this field if you work hard and learn from others.
Because you will be spending most of your time communicating with customers and employees, you will need excellent communication skills. It is important that you are willing to travel, work long hours and be able to commute.
You can take classes at universities and community colleges if you are interested in a career as an automotive technician. Many schools offer programs specific to students interested in sales, auto repair, or customer service.
You should choose to study mechanical engineering if you want to get a degree. You can earn a bachelor's in as little four years.
In addition, many companies will hire graduates straight out of school. So it's wise to start looking for employment while you still have the chance to study part-time.
Once you've completed your education, you'll probably need to complete some form of training before being able to take up a position as an automotive technician.
You will need to pass the Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. This exam covers topics such as engine maintenance, brakes and suspension.
Once you have passed the ASE Test, you are eligible to apply for a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence License.
A license permits you to repair private vehicles. You will be compensated based on how many services you performed.
It's important to note that not all states require licensing. However, if you plan to work outside your home state, you'll need to obtain a license.
Some states don’t issue licenses until a certain amount has been completed. If this is you, you may need another option.
Statistics
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
External Links
How To
How to become a mechanic certified
The mechanic's certifications are designed for people who want to become certified as professional automotive technicians. These certifications provide an overview of all aspects of auto repair including engine diagnostics and electrical systems, brakes. steering. fuel injection. air conditioning. heating. exhaust. diagnostic tools. body repairs. collision damage repair. collision repair. paintless dent removal. motor vehicle emissions testing.
The program is composed of 12 hours classroom instruction and three month's on-the-job training at participating dealers. Students must complete a minimum of 60 clock hours of classroom study per semester and pass a written exam, including theory and practical questions. After completing the coursework, students can take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence’s (ASE) state examination. To be employed as an automotive service technician, you must have ASE certification.