MS3 as a kid-hauler?

[KellyJoe]

Forgive my ignorance here, as I have never had kids... but why use a rear-facing car seat? Is it because you're more likely to hit someone/something yourself, resulting in an abrupt stop, snapping the kid's head forward like Dale Earnhardt without a HANS device?

That's exactly right and it's required by law up to a certain age and/or size.

 

[scottie137]

If this is going to be the only vehicle for the family, the speed3 might be a tad small. Carrying an infant, stroller, and baby/diaper bag would make it pretty tight. If this is a DD for the guy and the wife has something else, then the Speed3 is a prefect compromise imho. I had an 04 WRX for the first year and a half after my daughter was born and that worked fine 99% of the time. The Speed3 is waaaay more kid friendly than the WRX. My daughter is 4 now and likes to take her bike, pool toys, etc. when we go places. The Speed works perfectly for that! The A3 is a nice car as well. Good luck with your decision!

 

[mazdaspeedster3]

YA, as long as there is a bigger vehicle in the family and this is your to and from work you should be great. Wondering though, if you have a Z4 why dont you just trade in for a nice new 335i?

 

[Mike240SX]

Coming from a Z4 I see only one option:
http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/vehicles/2010/5/535ixdrivesportswagon/default.aspx