Best Family Cars of 2023 - A Top 10 Selection for Your Loved Ones
Discover the finest family vehicles available for purchase. Here is a comprehensive top 10 list encompassing SUVs and budget-friendly hatchbacks.
Selecting the right family vehicle can prove to be a tougher task than expected, considering the demanding needs of both adults and children on a daily basis. However, car manufacturers are rising to this challenge, presenting an array of choices for prospective family car buyers.
Despite their compact nature, family hatchbacks excel in fuel efficiency and space, demonstrating a commendable balance of attributes. Nevertheless, certain buyers may necessitate the additional room provided by an SUV or estate car. In these cases, you'll enjoy increased rear legroom, a larger trunk, and enhanced comfort for long journeys, albeit at a slightly higher cost in terms of purchase price and potentially reduced fuel efficiency.
An MPV with either five or seven seats is the preferred choice for optimal adaptability in interior space. Yet, the modern trend in family-oriented vehicles leans heavily towards SUVs and crossover models. These options grant a heightened driving vantage point and easier entry due to their elevated ride height, with select models even boasting mild off-road capabilities.
Our lineup caters to a diverse audience, featuring SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson, more conventional MPVs such as the Dacia Jogger, and even fully electric alternatives like the MG4.
Best family cars to buy
- Dacia Jogger
- Honda Civic
- Peugeot 408
- Hyundai Kona Electric
- Hyundai Tucson
- Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
- Skoda Octavia
- MG4
- Cupra Born
- Citroen C5 X
1. Dacia Jogger
The Dacia Jogger clinched the Family Car of the Year title at AutoExpress’s New Car Awards in both 2022 and 2023 due to its seven-seat capacity, ample room for passengers of all ages, up to 1,807 litres of cargo space, and economical operational costs. Surpassing expectations, the Jogger starts at slightly above £18,000 and now offers a hybrid variant. The Jogger's functionality-driven, distinctive shape has been revitalized with a recent facelift, presenting a sleek new appearance. The ingeniously designed modular roof bars further contribute to the car’s adaptability. The distinctive shape also results in surprisingly roomy third-row seats.
While the interior design might appear simpler compared to competitors, it's filled with considerate details indicating a family-oriented approach and retains all the standard comforts. For the best package, we suggest opting for the mid-range Expression trim, which provides an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, parking sensors, climate control, and practical roof bars.
2. Honda Civic
Much like the Toyota Corolla, the 11th-generation Civic comes exclusively with a self-charging hybrid powertrain. It boasts seamless efficiency, achieving over 50mpg effortlessly. The Civic's appearance is more refined this time, offering an extended glasshouse that enhances visibility and a longer, more elegant profile. There's no denying it: this constitutes an attractive family hatchback.
Simultaneously, the interior of the Japanese hatchback is more expansive than before, exuding solid craftsmanship and showcasing an infotainment system superior to its predecessors. Surpassing its counterparts like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the latest Civic impresses with a capacious 410-litre boot for your luggage.
Generous standard equipment levels abound, as each version includes Honda's comprehensive safety kit, keyless entry, dual-zone air conditioning, parking sensors, and a rear-view camera. In conjunction with the hybrid powertrain, all these features contribute to justifying the somewhat higher starting price, which stands at slightly under £36,500.
3. Peugeot 408
Peugeot's design team is currently experiencing a winning streak, successfully blending aesthetics and substance in optimal proportions with the 408. This stylish coupe-SUV stands out as one of today's most unique family vehicles, boasting intricate, sharp folds along the wings and flanks, accompanied by Peugeot's recognizable, fang-shaped LED daytime running lights.
Inside, an air of sophistication and unexpected spaciousness prevails, complete with abundant screens and an impressively spacious 536-liter trunk. All variants feature a slightly smaller, somewhat octagonal steering wheel compared to the norm, along with Peugeot's i-Cockpit digital driver's display intended to be looked over for readings. However, this setup might not resonate with everyone, making it advisable to test it personally before finalizing your decision.
Driving the 408 is as delightful an experience as gazing upon it. Alongside the standard PureTech gasoline engine, the 408 offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain that grants an electric driving range of approximately 40 miles.
4. Hyundai Kona Electric
The initial Hyundai Kona stood as a practical compact SUV; however, it fell short on the rear cabin and cargo room, which hindered its competition against top-tier family vehicles. The situation has undergone a complete transformation with the introduction of the all-new, second-generation Kona. This iteration offers increased spaciousness, particularly in the rear, and showcases an impressive 466-litre boot space.
Moving to the interior, the cabin exudes a significantly more upscale ambiance compared to the previous Kona model. Across all variants, the dashboard takes center stage, adorned with a dual setup of 12.3-inch displays. Furthermore, the Kona incorporates Hyundai's latest infotainment software, boasting a cleaner interface that hosts more prominent and user-friendly 'widgets.'
In terms of the second-generation Kona Electric, buyers can opt for either a 48kWh or a 65kWh battery. The latter option boasts an asserted range of 305 miles. Its comfortable demeanor, effortless city driving experience, and impressive refinement make it a package replete with qualities ideal for a family-oriented vehicle.
5. Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai aimed to rival premium contenders in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment with the fourth-gen Tucson. Its distinct, captivating appearance, extensive standard features throughout the lineup, and an overall commitment to top-tier craftsmanship have led Tucson to secure the title of Mid-size SUV of the Year in our New Car Awards for three consecutive years.
It's also an excellent option for families, benefitting from ingenious engineering that provides ample space for both front and rear passengers, along with a roomy 620-litre trunk at your disposal. Despite Hyundai's efforts to enhance Tucson's appeal to those seeking a more upscale SUV, pricing remains reasonable.
Starting at just over £30,000, the SE Connect trim offers a petrol-powered Tucson complete with standard features like forward collision-avoidance assist, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, climate control, and parking sensors.
6. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
The 2023 Estate Car of the Year is proudly taken by the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports, which has recently undergone a refresh. This update encompasses the usual stylistic adjustments, while more notably, enhancements have been made to its hybrid system. Additionally, a fresh infotainment arrangement has been introduced, elevating the appeal of this dependable family wagon.
Both the Corolla hatchback and the Touring Sports estate, available exclusively in hybrid models, offer a 2.0-litre petrol engine beneath their hoods. However, our preference leans towards the 1.8-litre petrol variant, as it maintains excellent performance, achieves over 60mpg in fuel economy, and provides a slightly roomier trunk.
Impressively, the driving experience surpasses expectations for an environmentally-conscious vehicle. Naturally, practicality remains a focal point for this estate. The boot capacity reaches up to 596 litres with all seats in position, and the spacious, square-shaped cargo area facilitates the transportation of even the most cumbersome objects.
7. Skoda Octavia
The Skoda Octavia stands out as a versatile performer, delivering on key aspects: competitive pricing, generous space and practicality, well-incorporated onboard technology, and a variety of efficient petrol and diesel engines. As you take a stroll around Skoda's family hatchback, you'll immediately notice its elegant and uncluttered design.
The interior excellence is another significant advantage, easily rivaling more upscale competitors. Despite this, with an initial price of under £25,000, the Octavia offers remarkable affordability. Its capacious 600-litre boot and expansive passenger area provide a sense of elevated class. We hold high regard for Skoda's durable craftsmanship, coupled with the provided comfort and the seamless everyday drivability it offers.
8. MG4
Introducing the MG4, the brand's latest addition to the UK market. With prices commencing at under £27,000, this stands as one of the most budget-friendly electric vehicles presently purchasable.
Despite its economical nature, the MG4 emerges as an enticing choice, rivalling established contenders like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault Megane E-Tech. This affordable car presents comparable levels of in-car technology, boasts an impressive battery range exceeding 200 miles, and includes a generous seven-year warranty.
The MG4 comes in three versions: SE, SE Long Range, and Trophy Long Range. The Long Range variants are both equipped with a 64kWh battery, providing a commendable range of 270-281 miles.
The more cost-effective SE houses a slightly smaller 51kWh unit, still allowing journeys of up to 218 miles per charge. Charging capabilities across all MG4 models peak at 150kW, with the larger battery reaching 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 35 minutes.
9. Cupra Born
Hot hatches remain adored vehicles, seamlessly melding, driving excitement and functionality without straining the wallet. Traditionally confined to gasoline, the realm of hot hatches now sees a transformation with Cupra's inaugural EV, the Born.
Sharing fundamental elements with its counterpart, the Volkswagen ID.3, the Cupra Born receives a distinctive makeover and meticulous tuning to claim the mantle of the more exhilarating duo. Distinctive copper accents, sleek alloy wheels, and dynamic LED illumination collectively contribute to setting the Born apart in the crowd.
Its visual appeal is merely the tip of the iceberg—embracing a 12-inch touchscreen complete with GPS navigation, seamless wireless smartphone mirroring, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and a standard-issue reversing camera.
10. Citroen C5 X
Citroen is well-known for its unique and comfortable vehicles, and the C5 X adheres to this tradition. At first glance, the C5 X appears to be an unconventional car that blends features from luxury saloons, estates, and SUVs, setting it apart effortlessly.
The C5 X comes with a choice of trim levels, offering a 1.2 or 1.6-liter petrol engine, or it can be chosen as a plug-in hybrid, boasting an electric range of up to 38 miles.
Irrespective of the model, the Citroen Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension ensures a refined ride. Notably, the PHEV version gains an advantage with its active suspension. This innovative system scans the road ahead and automatically adjusts the dampers to suit the conditions.
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a premium interior exuding a sense of quality. The materials used and the plush foam-filled seats contribute to this ambiance. The influences from SUVs and estates shine through in the generous passenger space both in the front and rear. Additionally, a 545-liter boot space is at your service, slightly reduced to 485 liters in the PHEV variant.
Most of these best family cars are found at our used car Supermarket.
Source and Images: AutoExpress UK