1. Volvo V60
The Volvo V60 is an excellent car that should be more popular on UK roads. Why? Because it’s the safest car in its class, it looks fantastic, and it’s even pretty sporty to drive. There are several engines and specifications to choose from. The range starts with the 1.6 T2 and 1.6 D2, and then extends to the 2.0 D3, 2.0 D4, 2.4 D5 and then the range topping 3.0 T6. The best value for money can be found in 2.0 D4 SE S/S trim, which as standard comes with cruise control, electric and heated mirrors, climate control. power folding mirrors, alloy wheels, CD player, iPad / MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth.
To drive, the V60 is excellent; it has a spacious cabin and a luxurious interior which is good enough to rival the most premium of German wagons. Dealerships such as Derby Volvo have good deals in the V60 at the moment. We recommend this to families with 2 or 3 children.
2. Ford C-Max
The Ford C-Max is an excellent solution for families who seek a car which offers a high level of comfort and space first and foremost. Many buyers don’t like the looks of MPV’s, but if you’re okay with the general size of them, the C-Max is the best on the market.
We recommend the C-Max with the entry level diesel engine, which is a 1.6 TDCi. This engine is economical and punchy, with more than enough grunt to make swift progress. It will return an impressive 62.8 mpg on a combined cycle whilst around town, and on short journeys, you can expect mid 40’s.
3. Skoda Octavia
The new Skoda Octavia is the perfect car for families; it looks great, it drives great, it has VW reliability, and the equipment levels are impressive per trim level. This is essentially a budget Audi A4, offering 90% of the luxury yet, surprisingly, a nicer drive overall. This car has access to the Volkswagen Audi Groups impressive engine line up, including the entry level 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI, 1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI. Most families will be fine with the 1.4 TSI engine, which is cheaper to buy than the less gutsy 1.6 TDI. For families who seek some power under their right foot, the new Octavia vRS is a fantastic car, with the TSI model being the fastest production Octavia ever.
At £22,990, we recommend the 2.0 TSI vRS. This benefits from a sporty body kit, premium interior, and once you have dropped the kids off at school, you’ll be able to go from 0 – 62 mph in just 6.8 seconds and, if you ever go to the Autobahn, max your car out at an impressive 154 mph.