Choosing the right family car has become a more nuanced decision as family dynamics and vehicle options evolve. In recent years, many families are moving towards eco-friendly choices, like hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs), given the growing infrastructure for EV charging points and the government’s push to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035. At the same time, families still prioritise space, safety and practicality.
Here we offer advice on choosing the best car that suits your modern family life.
Prioritising space and comfort
Whether you have young children or teenagers, having enough room for everyone to sit comfortably is a priority. A family car should have enough legroom for passengers in both the front and back seats. Boot space is equally important, especially for storing prams, sports gear or holiday luggage. Models like the Volkswagen Tiguan are known for their impressive boot capacity.
Long journeys can be tiring, so ensure your car offers comfortable, adjustable seating with good lumbar support. Look for features like heated seats or climate control to enhance comfort.
Safety features to consider
Car safety is always paramount but something you are even more aware of in a family car.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, all useful safety features when you have the distractions of a full family car.
Ensure your car has ISOFIX mounting points for child seats. ISOFIX is a standard feature in many family-friendly vehicles, making it easier and safer to secure child seats.
Check your car’s Euro NCAP rating to ensure it performs well in crash tests. Models such as the VW Passat regularly achieve high safety ratings, making them ideal for families.
Fuel efficiency and running costs
Running costs are a significant consideration for families, and choosing a fuel-efficient car like the new Citroen 4 can make a big difference to your household budget.
With the focus on reducing emissions, hybrid and electric cars are becoming more popular. Hybrids offer excellent fuel economy, while fully electric models like the Tesla Model 3 or Nissan Leaf allow you to save on fuel while lowering your carbon footprint. Electric vehicles (EVs) come with benefits like lower running costs, reduced vehicle tax and exemptions from congestion charges.
Storage and practicality
The ability to carry all your family essentials – from shopping bags to sports equipment – is important. Look for cars with flexible seating solutions, such as fold-flat or split-fold seats, which allow you to expand the boot space when needed.
Family cars like the Skoda Kodiaq offer clever storage solutions, with compartments under the seats, in the doors, and around the cabin to store everything from toys to snacks.