I'm looking to rent a car for our group of five, which includes a toddler. We will be buying a UK car seat for him. We are looking at a Ford Fiesta or similar economy car.
1) Can two adult passengers and a toddler (in a car seat) sit in the rear legally?
2) Will we be comfortable or should we opt for a larger car?
Definitely larger!
Find a similar car at home and do a 'test fit' to see what it is like.
Your local Ford dealer probably has some Fiesta on the lot.
The legal load is one passenger per seat belt and most everywhere now it is required to wear it.
Too small. Go for at least a Ford Focus size, if not bigger.
Even with a toddler it will be a very tight and uncomfortable fit, don't forget the car seat is going to take up some considerable room. A Fiesta is a very compact car, not suitable for anymore than two adults and a couple of kids in the back.
1) Can two adult passengers and a toddler (in a car seat) sit in the rear legally?
Sounds feasible......
2) Will we be comfortable or should we opt for a larger car?
Sounds miserable. We travel with 5 and get a 7 passenger Mini-Van every year. Keep in mind room for luggage for 5 and the fact that driving a lot in cramped quarters really sucks.
Thanks all. I am now looking at a bigger/two car(s).
I would agree, don't opt for two cars.
Your best option is to opt for what's described as an intermediate or large car. Most rental agencies offer cars such as a Skoda Octavia or Vauxhall Insignia, these are what are described as saloon cars (sedan in the US). Most will fit three average adults in the back (a bit snug) and a reasonably large boot so two adults and a car seat should be fine.
