We know first-hand how overwhelming it can be to choose the right products for your baby. Which is why the 2016 Mother & Baby awards, sponsored by Babies “R” Us, seek to make it easier, helping Aussie mums find the best buys for their bubs.
Now in their fifth year, the awards highlight the best products in the baby care industry, from nappies and wipes, to big ticket items such as cots, cars and family holidays.
The Mother & Baby award rosette signals that a product has been given the tick of approval from the experts and other mums. Click through the gallery to check out the finalists in the retail tested car seat or travel system category.
Brought to you by Babies “R” Us.
Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
The Subaru Outback will have you riding high with its smart technology, state-of-the-art infotainment and new soft-touch interior trim. There’s room for the entire family and enough storage for all your gear. The Outback 2.5i Premium also comes with EyeSight driver assist technology as standard. This system monitors the road ahead using three-dimensional images captured by cameras at the top of the windscreen. The outback was recently tested in 2015 and received a 5 star ANCAP safety rating. Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium, from $41,490 (MLP).
Ford Kuga Titanium
The Ford Kuga is a compact SUV designed and built by Ford. Offering the latest in smart and fuel-saving technology, the Ford Kuga is ideal for any growing family. The top of the range titanium features hands-free power tailgate, active park assist and a panorama roof. MSRPs: 2.0L Petrol AWD Automatic. Ford Kuga Titanium, from $45,190.
Kia Sorento SLi Petrol
With seating for seven, the Sorento offers plenty of room for family and friends. It has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and all models come with ABS (anti-lock brake system), ESC (electronic stability control), BAS (brake assist), VSM (vehicle stability management), HAC (hill start assist), ESS (emergency stop signal), rear view camera, front and rear parking sensors and tyre pressure monitoring. There are six airbags, including front-to-rear curtain coverage. All Kia vehicles also come with an industry leading 7-Year warranty, 7-Year capped price service program and 7-Year roadside assist. Kia Sorento SLi Petrol, from $45,990.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d
The new mid-sized SUV from Mercedes-Benz features state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, great fuel efficiency and the new 9G-TRONIC transmission as standard. The entry-level model to the range has 19” Wheels, 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, KEYLESS-START, EASY-PACK (power) Tailgate, LED Intelligent Light System, Garmin MAP PILOT navigation with the innovative touchpad, Electric Front Seats and a 360 degree camera. The new GLC’s rear seat features a 40/20/40 split and offers a cargo position which increases the load capacity by locking the backrests at a steeper angle. Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d, from $64,500.
BMW X1
Designed by an Australian, the all-new X1 was launched in Oct 2015. Newly-designed interior with significantly improved space and variability, combined with the latest update of the premium ambience for which the brand is renowned. The perfect family vehicle at entry level price for a premium brand. BMW X1, from $51,600.