That zippy little sports car or powerful motorcycle was great when it was just the two of you, but now you’re expecting an addition to your family, and you need more room, more safety, more convenience. What features should every expecting family look for in a vehicle?

Locking seatbelts or LATCH system LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, has been standard in all new vehicles since 2003. If you’re looking for a pre-owned vehicle that doesn’t have LATCH, pull the seat belt all the way out, let it go back in a little, and pull again. Does it lock? That is the type of belt you want to use with a car seat.

Cupholders Water bottles, coffee cups, cups full of snacks, even toys for older kids; the list of stuff that can go in a cup holder is nearly infinite and the addition of young people to your cargo means a nearly exponential growth in the need for them.

Easy-to-clean seats Kids are messy. Enough said.

Seatback pockets Books, napkins, diapers, a change of clothes; just like cupholders, the list of items that can be carried in this little compartment is endless. It’s easier to be prepared for an impromptu trip if you have a place to put the magnadoodle and spare box of cheese crackers.

Plenty of storage space Whether it’s a proper trunk or the cargo compartment of a van or SUV, it needs to be able to hold the equipment associated with having children, from extra groceries to the pack-and-play so Junior has a safe place to nap at Grandma’s.

Looking for your own safe, reliable family vehicle? Browse our new inventory, pre-owned vehicles, and internet specials 24/7 at gladstonesuzuki.com.