Forbes.com is one of the leading sources of business and consumer information on the web, and when it publishes one of its famous "lists," you can count on unbiased and thoroughly researched information.  For car shoppers, Forbes' lists can be an extremely helpful resource not only because of the quality of the information, but also for the unique aspects of cars that they explore. 

In a recently published list, Forbes researchers put themselves in the shoes of couples undergoing the life-changing experience of becoming first-time parents.  With all the uncertainties that come with adding a baby to your family, Forbes takes the guesswork out of adding a family-suited car to your household as well. 

To compile their list of The 10 Best Cars for New Parents, Forbes researched vehicles according to the following criteria:

1.    Price:  For new parents on a budget, price is of utmost importance, and all cars on the list retail for under $25,000.
2.    Interior:  Careful consideration was made for vehicles with roomy interiors, easy rear seat access, and family-minded features.
3.    Safety:  All vehicles on the list are a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Coming in number one on the list of 10 Best Cars for New Parents was the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox.   Forbes says that the Equinox "does just about everything right."  It's got a powerful engine with an "Eco" mode to boost fuel economy (22/32 MPG), a roomy comfortable interior with flexible seating and cargo options, and not to mention a slew of safety features including all-wheel-drive, lane departure and front-collision warning systems, and child safety locks.  Forbes researchers also noted that the SUV/crossover style of the Chevrolet Equinox was not only well-suited for getting little ones in and out of their car seats, but it also has a more youthful quality than the stereotypical family minivan, making it a great choice both practically and stylistically.

Also making Forbes' list of 10 Best Cars for New Parents were the Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda CR-V, Honda Fit, Kia Soul, Scion xB, MINI Cooper Countryman, Nissan Cube, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Jetta.