Best Cars for Small Family

A lot is written about family cars for those with a large family. Sometimes, those with smaller families are often overlooked.

What happens when you are just a family of 3 – possibly with a furry friend. Which cars are best suited for this dynamic?

To try and answer this question, we have compiled a list of some of the more appropriate cars and SUVs on the market that meet the needs of a small family.

Hatchbacks

Hatchbacks are often seen as good family cars. The rear seats in most hatchbacks can be folded down to allow more space for larger bulkier items. If you are small family, this can be very useful, as often not all the back seats are taken up.

Two very popular models in the hatchback category are:

• Ford Focus. Known for its excellent driving dynamics, good space, and reliability. It also comes with a range of efficient engines.

• Volkswagen Golf: A versatile and well-built hatchback, offering a high-quality interior, advanced tech features, and a smooth ride.

Compact SUVs

As the name suggests, compact SUVs are very similar in nature and design to SUVs…. Just more compact.

This can make them a great option for small families, as their boxy design gives them more interior space than a hatchback. Their slighter size, compared to SUVs, also means they are better for parking and manoeuvrability. Another couple of useful traits for family driving.

Popular models within the compact SUV market include:

• Nissan Qashqai: One of the UK's most popular family cars, offering a comfortable ride, plenty of space, and advanced safety features.

• Peugeot 3008: Stylish and well-equipped, with a premium feel and a practical, spacious interior.

Estate Cars

Estate cars can prove to be very good cars for small families. Especially if you have pets and/or need extra space for sports equipment.

Large boots are a common trait of estate cars, which makes them very popular with people who need extra space for luggage or equipment. These type of cars are equally good for everyday driving or long journeys. Making them versatile for many different family situations.

Popular options within the estate car category include:

• Skoda Octavia Estate: A practical and spacious estate with a large boot, great fuel efficiency, and a reputation for reliability.

• Volkswagen Passat Estate: Offers a large boot, a comfortable interior, and a smooth ride, making it ideal for longer family trips.

Electric Vehicles

Parents need ample space in the car, whether for holidays or daily life. Many electric vehicles like excel in this area – with generous boot space and roomy interiors.

With batteries built into the floor, these cars maximise space with large boot capacity and plenty of room for passengers and their luggage.

The following are popular options for those with small families:

• Tesla Model 3: A premium electric car with a good range, high-tech features, and plenty of space for a small family.

• Nissan Leaf: One of the most popular electric cars, with a practical design, decent range, and affordable price point.

Budget Options

At the end of the day, regardless of your family size, money plays an extremely important role in deciding the best car for your needs. No matter the type of car, there are a few good budget options on cars out there. These include the following:

• Dacia Duster: A budget-friendly SUV that offers a surprising amount of space and practicality for the price.

• Hyundai i30: Offers a strong value proposition with a good mix of space, equipment, and reliability at an affordable price.

Choosing the Perfect Small Family Car

For a small family in the UK, choosing the right car depends on balancing factors like space, safety, and budget.

Whether you prefer a versatile hatchback, a compact SUV, or modern electric vehicle - there are excellent options available to suit various needs and lifestyles.