Motoring journalists from Autocar have compiled a definitive list of the finest family cars currently available in the UK, and the top spot has been claimed by the BMW 3 Series Touring, beating out popular models from Ford, Audi, Hyundai, and Kia.
BMW 3 Series Touring Takes the Crown
Journalists Keith WR Jones and Sam Phillips explained the reasoning behind their choice: "The Touring estate version of the BMW 3 Series is the one to take if you're adamant that family life and enjoying driving don't have to be mutually exclusive." They highlighted the M340i as a standout performance estate that hits the family car brief while also being fun to drive. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid 330e will appeal to company car drivers and fleets alike, with its blend of performance and economy still segment-leading.
Dacia Jogger Secures Second Place
The Dacia Jogger was ranked second, praised for its versatility and value. However, reviewers noted some drawbacks, including a lack of certain driver assistance features, insufficient refinement in its smaller engines, and a third row of seats that proved awkward to access. Despite these points, they concluded: "The Jogger is the ideal family all-rounder, with space for seven passengers and a robust interior that's durable enough to handle your kids, their mates and all the paraphernalia that comes with them."
Volkswagen Golf Rounds Out Top Three
Rounding out the top three in third place was the enduring Volkswagen Golf hatchback. Now more than 50 years old, the latest Mk8.5 iteration was commended for its significantly enhanced technology. The journalists noted: "The latest, Mk8.5 model continues to offer family-sized motoring to suit a variety of budget and performance requirements, even in this SUV-dominated age."
Tips for Buying a Second-Hand Family Car
A good second-hand family car needs to be practical, cheap to run, and safe. Reliability is of crucial importance when choosing a second-hand car, especially as many will be out of the manufacturer's warranty. A car's history is of crucial importance, so do be sure to go through service records carefully.
