Choosing the best family car can feel daunting with so many options on the market, but we’re here to help simplify your search.
Each year, our expert vehicle test team puts approximately 200 cars through a rigorous series of evaluations, assessing performance in areas such as acceleration, braking, and even the usability of infotainment systems.
These tests culminate in a comprehensive rating, and only the top performers earn a spot on our list of best family cars.
How We Selected the Best Family Cars
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best family cars, representing a variety of categories including sedans, SUVs, minivans, electric vehicles, and even a pickup truck. Each vehicle on this list excels in key areas, but no car is perfect—every choice involves some trade-offs.
For instance:
- Three-row SUVs: These are ideal for families needing ample passenger and cargo space. However, their size and weight often compromise fuel efficiency.
- Sedans: Known for their fuel economy, sedans are more compact, which means less room compared to an SUV.
- Full-size SUVs or trucks: Perfect for families who frequently go camping or need towing capabilities. Their larger size and power are great for such activities but come with higher fuel costs.
- Electric vehicles (EVs): If you’re ready to say goodbye to gas stations entirely, EVs could be the right choice. They’re eco-friendly and increasingly practical for families.
By weighing your family’s unique needs—whether it’s space, fuel efficiency, or towing capability—you can narrow down your options to find the perfect fit.
1. Skoda Kodiaq (2017–2024)
The Skoda Kodiaq has become a staple choice for families, bridging the gap between Skoda’s traditional budget-friendly approach and premium-level quality.
With a cavernous interior, outstanding comfort, and reputed reliability, it checks most boxes. However, it doesn’t yet offer a plug-in hybrid or electric version, though it does provide an optional seven-seat configuration.
2. Audi A6 Avant
The Audi A6 Avant brings executive-level comfort and refined styling to the family car segment. It’s roomy, practical, and loaded with high-tech features, making it a sensible yet luxurious choice.
While not the most exciting car to drive, its comfort and refinement are hard to beat.
3. Skoda Superb (2019–2023)
Take the practicality and spaciousness of the Audi A6 Avant, and reimagine it with Skoda’s competitive pricing and value-oriented ethos.
The Superb offers a massive 660-litre boot and rear seats with ample legroom. Its plug-in hybrid variant is a welcome addition, though it sacrifices a bit of boot space. While it lacks a premium badge, the Superb estate stands out as one of the best family cars available.
4. Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 combines luxury and practicality in a spacious package with room for seven occupants. Even the third row offers reasonable comfort.
Its high-quality interior lives up to Audi’s reputation, and it includes a plug-in hybrid option. For those seeking power, the V8 turbo SQ7 is an enticing choice.
5. Skoda Enyaq
For families ready to embrace electric vehicles, the Skoda Enyaq is a top contender. Although it lacks a seven-seat option, the Enyaq offers a spacious, well-crafted interior and a generous 580-litre boot. Opting for the 77kWh battery provides a range exceeding 300 miles, making it an excellent choice for long-distance travel.
Each of these cars offers unique advantages, catering to a range of family needs. Whether you prioritize space, luxury, or eco-friendliness, there’s a perfect option on this list for every family.
6. Land Rover Discovery
The Land Rover Discovery may have been somewhat overshadowed by the new Defender, but it remains a highly practical and subtly luxurious option for families.
While the classic split tailgate is no more, a fold-out bench in the boot keeps its outdoor-friendly spirit alive. Crucially, the Discovery is one of the few SUVs that offers genuine space for adults in its third-row seats.
7. BMW X7
Though its exterior design may divide opinions, the BMW X7 makes up for it with a supremely luxurious and comfortable interior.
Its substantial size delivers ample space for seven passengers, but navigating urban roads can be challenging. Despite its bulk, the X7 is surprisingly agile and enjoyable to drive.
8. BMW 5 Series (2020–2023)
Much like the Audi A6, the BMW 5 Series shines brightest in its Touring estate guise.
It offers a blend of family-friendly practicality, stylish aesthetics, and an engaging driving experience. However, compared to some rivals, its interior is beginning to feel slightly cramped.
9. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon (2020–2023)
The Mercedes E-Class boasts an expansive cabin that makes the BMW 5 Series feel less roomy by comparison.
For optimal boot space, avoid the 300de diesel plug-in hybrid model. While its digital dashboard and some color combinations can feel a bit flashy, the E-Class remains a class-leading luxury saloon.
10. Peugeot 5008
The Peugeot 5008 remains a solid choice for larger families, offering seven seats as standard. While the third-row seats are too compact for adults, they can fold flat or be removed entirely to create a vast 1,060-litre boot. The interior is stylish, but the driving position may feel a bit cramped for some.
These family cars cater to diverse needs, balancing practicality, luxury, and performance. Each model offers a unique take on what makes a great large family car, ensuring there’s an option for every family’s priorities.