The Best of Both Worlds: Top 10 Fast Family Cars

Range Rover in Autumn
Starting a family doesn’t have to mean switching down a gear when it comes to your car. On the contrary, you’ll be amazed at how many auto manufacturers offer family-friendly cars with track-inspired features. Read on as we spotlight the top 10 family cars that are fast, with options for every budget. And yes, you can absolutely strap a kid’s car seat into the back of a Porsche!

1. Volkswagen Golf R

The Volkswagen Golf R may be small, but it packs a punch underneath the compact body. Under the hood is a monstrous TSI engine that will take you from 0 to 62 mph in under five seconds. Wherever you need to be, the Volkswagen Golf R will get you there fast.

You won’t want to hit the top speed of 155 mph with the kids in the back seat, but you can definitely put this model through its paces on an adults-only drive. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system offers lots of traction and control, while an impressive 977 litres of cargo capacity (including the boot and rear seats) offers plenty of room for all your luggage.

2. Porsche Taycan

If budget isn’t a barrier, it’s hard to look past the Porsche Taycan as one of the best family cars that are fast. We love the 4 Cross Turismo model, which combines sporty styling with a spacious interior and an extra-large boot. The powerful engine propels the car from 0 to 62 mph in a little over five seconds, so you’ll want to make sure your shopping is secure before you set off.

3. Mercedes AMG E-Class Saloon

If you’re looking for speed, the Mercedes AMG E-Class Saloon will knock your socks off with acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. It’s all thanks to a huge 612 horsepower engine designed to unleash serious power. Don’t worry, there are plenty of practical features packed into this beast.

The MBUX infotainment system makes getting from A to B a cinch. Perfect for if your Saturday morning involves trips to various different sports fields! Whether your kids insist on The Wiggles or Little Mix, the Burmester® surround sound system will make them sound incredible.

4. Audi RS6 Avant

The high-performance Audi RS6 Avant has well and truly earned its place on our countdown of the best family cars that are fast. From music lessons to football games, the 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo TFSI engine will get you there in double time. To be more specific, you can hit 0 to 62mph in 3.6 seconds. Fold down the rear seats and you can unlock a huge 1680 litres of luggage capacity.

5. Mercedes-AMG A35 4MATIC

This sleek model combines design, performance and, you guessed it, family-friendly features. With a 421 horsepower engine and a top speed of 168 mph, it’s basically a supercar you can do the school run in. One thing’s for sure, it’ll definitely get heads turning as you pull up at the gate.

6. BMW M5 Competition

When it comes to performance saloons, it’s hard to look past the BMW M5 Competition. The outrageous BMW M TwinPower Turbo 8-cylinder petrol engine packs in a huge 625 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. As well as being a great family car, it can get you from 0 to 62mh in a mere 3.3 seconds.

7. Audi e-tron GT Quattro

Powered by the same electric motor and battery as similar Porsche models, the Audi e-tron GT is more track-inspired than you might think. You’ll get from 0 to 62mph in just over four seconds. The spacious interior is perfect for growing families, making this one of the best family cars that are fast.

8. Citroën ë-SpaceTourer Electric

On the hunt for an electric MPV that ticks all the boxes? With space for nine people, the Citroën ë-SpaceTourer Electric offers enough space for your whole family, plus furry friends and extra luggage. It’s packed with safety features, making it a top choice for eco-conscious families.

Now let’s talk about speed. It doesn’t exactly offer the same lightning-fast acceleration times as other models in this roundup of family cars that are fast. But it is more than capable of maintaining speeds of 80mph. When you consider the size of this model, that’s a pretty impressive feat. Even better, you’ll enjoy a benchmark range of 136 miles. This makes it great for longer trips with the family.

9. BMW Alpina D3 S

If you love the idea of a family-friendly diesel car that doesn’t compromise on speed, you’ll adore the BMW Alpina D3 S. The Touring version is perfect for fast-paced families, with loads of storage space and a top speed of 168 mph. Put your foot down and you can take this model from 0 to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds. In just over 18 seconds you can hit 124mph – though, of course, not with little ones in the back seats!

10. Range Rover Sport SVR

Marketed as one of the fastest Range Rovers of all time, this model delivers big power from its 5.0 litre V8 engine. The muscular design immediately captures attention, with superior handling making it great for city driving and longer trips.

And let’s not forget performance. The supercharged engine brings a huge 575 horsepower to the table. Pair this with a top speed of 176mph and acceleration of 0 to 60mph in 4.3 seconds and the Range Rover Sport SVR is essentially a race car disguised as an SUV.

These family cars that are fast prove that family life doesn’t mean you have to slow down the pace. Ready to upgrade your tired estate car and get behind the wheel of something a little more exciting? Use our car finance loan repayment calculator to crunch the numbers and see how far your budget can take you. Whether you’re shopping for a second-hand MPV or a shiny new Range Rover straight from the showroom, we can help you pile your family into your dream car.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Which Cars Will be Popular Post-COVID?

A white car in a dealership of popular cars

COVID-19 has affected every area of our lives, from how we interact with others to how we travel. Unsurprisingly, it's also changed the way we shop, even for costly purchases like new and used cars. Now, more people than ever are swapping showrooms for virtual auctions, digital catalogues and online marketplaces.

However, the virus’s seismic impact on the automotive industry extends far beyond how we buy cars – it’s also changed what cars we want to drive. In this post, we’ll discuss which cars will be popular in the coming months and years. 

Used cars over new 

When you think of popular cars, you might imagine stylish new models equipped with the latest technology. However, the current instability of the job market and subsequent financial strain is leading many to buy quality used or nearly new cars instead. 

Even before COVID-19, affordability was the leading factor in why people purchased used cars. Not only is the initial price much lower (often between 30-50%), maintenance and insurance are usually cheaper too. Additionally, thanks to the current travel restrictions, manufacturers are experiencing difficulties with international imports, resulting in lengthy delays to purchase new models. 

Motorists are going green 

With fewer cars on the road, creating a never-ending symphony of bangs, clatters and roars, many people rediscovered the joys of birdsong during lockdown, with experts dubbing it the “silent spring”. However, it’s not just noise pollution that cleared up considerably. London’s smog vanished, fish reappeared in the typically murky waters of the Venice canals and coyotes casually wandered across the Golden Gate Bridge. 

The virus showed us what life could look like if we lived more in accordance with nature, revealing a greener world where human activity was much less intrusive. As a result, many people started to think about how they could preserve this peace moving forward, starting with how they travel. 

According to one study on over 1,000 people in the UK, 25% of motorists want to purchase an eco-friendly vehicle after seeing a decline in pollution during lockdown. Those from key cities, such as London, Liverpool and Sheffield, are especially keen to make the switch. Official figures cited in The Times bolster the study’s findings, showing 33,000 pure electric and hybrid cars were registered between April and June, compared with 29,900 diesels. 

Focus on family-friendly models 

Thanks to the current travel restrictions, people are swapping holidays in far-flung locations for trusty staycations, increasing the demand for reliable, family-friendly cars.  

Recent research shows 90% of UK holidaymakers are planning to take a domestic holiday once the government lifts coronavirus restrictions. Therefore, people are now searching for cars that prioritise space, number of miles per gallon and all-weather performance over gadgets, gizmos and garish designs. What’s more, the increase in finance plans means finding an affordable family-friendly car has never been easier. 

How we can help 

Whatever car you’re looking for, our goal at My Car Credit is to make securing car finance as simple and accessible as possible. 

To find out how we can help you, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible.  

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Cheap Family Cars on Finance: 5 Budget Options

dad driving cheap family car purchased on finance

A reliable, child-friendly car is the glue that holds families together, allowing for shopping trips, school-runs, half-term holidays and so much more. However, finding a low-cost model that ticks all the boxes can be challenging, especially if you're after plenty of space, safety features and storage.

While owning the family-friendly car of your dreams may feel impossible at first glance, it could be more achievable than you think. Instead of paying upfront, most people now opt to buy cars via personal contract purchase (PCP), which spreads the total cost over an extended period. Plus, because you’re only funding part of the car’s value, you could drive away in something that would otherwise be out of your budget. 

Thanks to their popularity, most manufacturers now offer these flexible payment options, meaning you can choose from an extraordinary range of family hatchbacks, hybrids and SUVs for under £200 per month. You can also double-check how much you can expect to pay by using our handy car finance calculator.

What’s more, to help you decide, we’ve compiled our top 5 budget-friendly recommendations that offer exceptional quality alongside affordability.

1.  Peugeot 308

Estimated monthly cost: Used models from £155 per month

The Peugeot 308 is a child-friendly, five-door hatchback that’s often praised for being the best all-rounder for families on a budget. There’s plenty to love including its low running costs, impressive safety grade and spacious interiors that comfortably seat two up front and three in the back.

Thanks to its excellent fuel economy and low emission rates, the 308 promises exceptional value for money and lends itself to high-mileage road trips and summer staycations. Plus, it has a five-star safety score from Euro NCAP, taking the stress out of the bumpiest of journeys. 

Driving performance aside, the 308 doesn’t skimp on style or space. The roomy boot offers 470 litres with the seats up and 1,185 litres with the seats folded. Plus, there’s extra hidden space below the load area for phones, book bags and other bits and pieces.

2.  Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport

Estimated monthly cost: Used models from £188 per month

If you’re searching for reliability, there’s no better choice than the Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport, voted Family Car of the Year at the Auto Express Awards 2018. While this model retains much of the original Insignia’s design, it adds even more interior space and high-tech features. This includes a touchscreen infotainment system with sat-nav, without significantly bumping up the price. 

Its unrivalled reliability is, in part, thanks to its vast array of customisable engines, meaning you can choose the machinery that suits your driving style. You can opt for a petrol or diesel engine, front-wheel drive, four-wheel-drive, six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The Grand Sport also offers much more space than its predecessor, comfortably seating large families while providing plenty of storage. The front doors have generously sized pockets, and there’s a large cubbyhole under the middle armrest to keep prized possessions safe.

3.  Ford Mondeo

Estimated monthly cost: Used models from £186 per month

Ford is known for creating classic, reliable and functional cars, and the Mondeo doesn’t disappoint. Recently upgraded, it offers a more upscale design, plenty of interior features and ample storage.

Its large dimensions make it an efficient family car with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. Yet, despite its impressive size, it handles surprisingly lightly, navigating tight corners and parking spaces with ease. The Mondeo is also built for speed, making it the perfect option for families who take regular motorway trips – paired with sat-nav as standard.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the Mondeo is space. There are deep door pockets, large cup holders and a wide central cubby complete with USB sockets. What’s more, the generously sized boot offers more space than you’ll ever need.

4.  Dacia Duster SUV

Estimated monthly cost: Used models from £160 per month

Are you surprised to see an SUV on the list? The Dacia Duster is excellent value for money, easy-to-drive and incredibly practical – the ideal option for growing families looking to get more car for their money.

The Duster is an uncomplicated vehicle, built for countryside living. Thanks to its unique combination of small wheels and high-rubber tyres, you can navigate bumps and potholes effortlessly. What’s more, its supreme grip makes driving feel much safer even on the rainiest days. 

Despite the low price tag, you get plenty of interior space. The rear door openings are tall for easy access, and the height of the seats from the ground means children can easily hop in and out. The boot is large by SUV standards, offering enough room to carry luggage, camping equipment, multiple school projects and more.

5.  Skoda Octavia

Estimated monthly cost: Used models from £167 per month

Perhaps one of the flashiest cars on our list, the Skoda Octavia has steadily moved away from its budget roots into the realm of premium transport, rivalling the Audi A1 and Mercedes A Class. However, thanks to the wealth of PCP on offer, it’s still an affordable, quality option for families looking for something a little fancier. 

The Octavia’s driving performance is impressive, and the 148bhp diesel engine can go from 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds. In addition, its soft suspension makes cruising at pace a pleasure, even when carrying several children and a boot full of luggage.

As well as this, this particular model provides some of the most generous rear space of any hatchback. Behind a tall driver, passengers are still able to lounge comfortably, and there’s plenty of head and elbow room for restless children. Storage-wise, the boot provides more space than rival hatchbacks, and even outperforms most models from the class above.

How we can help

At My Car Credit, we’re committed to making it as simple as possible to secure car finance. To find out how we can help you, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
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Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
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  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Baby on Board: Picking the Best Car for New Parents

baby sitting in baby seat in best car for new parents

As well as being an exciting time, becoming a new parent changes almost every aspect of your life. Your choice of car is no exception. Where you may have once let horsepower and performance rule your decision, now you’re more concerned about boot size and safety. Not to worry, we’ve put together a list of the best cars for new parents – including everything from compact hatchbacks to feature-packed SUVs.

Top vehicle choices for growing families

 

Compact car: Volkswagen Golf

Price range for a used Volkswagen Golf: £17,000 to £20,000

Don’t overlook the many benefits of smaller cars like the VW Golf. These offer practicality and can easily slot into supermarket parking spaces and navigate out of school car parks with tight bends. Inside, you’ll find plenty of space and a boot with 360 litres of luggage capacity. It’s one of the most spacious hatchbacks and best family cars around. In addition, it’s renowned for its low running costs and excellent handling.

Being both reliable and affordable, the VW Golf makes a great car for new parents. If you can’t buy a vehicle outright, consider reviewing your car finance eligibility. This will help you decide how you can fund your next vehicle when juggling the expense of a new baby.

Compact car: Ford Focus

Price range for a used Ford Focus: £9,000 to £12,000

Up and down the country, the Ford Focus is a well-loved vehicle for families and individuals alike. The latest models replace the once-cramped rear seats with a roomy passenger compartment in which three adults can comfortably sit. The boot is also bigger and more practical than before, with 341 litres of space.

The newer models come equipped with a Ford SYNC3 infotainment system. This features an eight-inch touchscreen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for sat-nav. With a Focus, you can expect all the safety tech that should be in a modern family hatchback. On top of this, you’ll enjoy smooth handling and great efficiency to boot.

Mid-Sized Estate Car: Skoda Superb

Price range for a used Skoda Superb: £7,000 to £34,000

If you want a bit of style with lots of space at an affordable price, then you don’t need to look much further than the Skoda Superb. It has an immense 625-litre boot space and 1,760 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Big on space and comfort, the Superb is very attractive for new parents who are often lugging around buggies, equipment and bags. But the space doesn’t stop there – it even has a place for umbrellas in the door. You’ll find this ideal when you’re loading and unloading the kids and it’s pouring with rain.

It’s quiet, low to the ground and is an overall delightful drive that is smooth and efficient. The newer models come with an electronic stability control system, seven airbags and a post-collision braking system. The five-star Euro NCAP safety rating means it ranks highly as a top family car. What makes it even better is the 60-litre tank that keeps you going for miles before stopping to refuel – an ideal feature with little passengers in tow!

Compact SUV: Skoda Karoq

Price range for a used Skoda Karoq: £12,000 to £26,000

It’s no surprise that Skoda is mentioned again; the brand is known for producing impressive family cars that are as practical as they are safe. The Czech firm continues to branch out into SUVs, and the Karoq is an impressive introduction. It has a bit more style compared to its Superb sibling with its sleek lines and height.

Skoda’s new Karoq is stylish, practical and incredibly safe with five stars in Euro NCAP tests. To sweeten the deal, it is surprisingly affordable. The boot offers a generous 521 litres, making it perfect for a new family with all the gear.

The wide-opening rear doors mean that you can slot the children’s car seats into place without any issue. The height of the SUV makes strapping children into their seats easy on your back. There are a number of handy rear seat features that make daily life easier. You’ll find a large box for gadgets and snacks between the front seats. There are also foldable tables for small children to use in the back. The rear-view camera and wide dashboard display help you navigate around busy school car parks and neighbourhoods with a clear view.

This vehicle won the ‘Best family SUV for £18,000-£30,000’ in the What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2019. You’ll enjoy travelling from the supermarket to the school to football pitches in style. Whether you choose petrol or diesel, running costs on this vehicle are surprisingly low.

Compact SUV: Vauxhall Crossland X

Price range for a used Vauxhall Crossland X: £8,000 to £23,000

The Vauxhall Crossland X has been designed to maximise space – and space it does offer. There is not only excellent headroom in the back that makes installing a child seat a snap, but the boot can hold 410 litres. This increases to 520 litres when you opt for sliding rear seats. With that said, there is more than enough room for a pram or pushchair.

This fantastic option is rated five stars in crash tests and 84 percent child occupant protection. You’ll feel confident that you are getting behind the wheel of a safe vehicle.

SUV: Audi Q3

Price range for a used Audi Q3: £19,000 to £52,000

Looking for a vehicle with plenty of boot space? One that will accommodate pushchairs, nappy bags, kids’ scooters and other must-have new parent items? How about a touch of luxury, too? The new Audi Q3 appeals to everyone, especially families, thanks to its fine balance of practicality and reliable SUV style.

It comes well-equipped with family-friendly features. Ranging from a first aid kid, split-folding rear seats, electronically operated child locks on rear doors through to seatbelt warning lights. Essentially, it has all the tech that new parents dream of.

This nifty SUV is powerful for open roads for road-tripping adventures. What’s more, the handling is delicate enough to navigate tight school car parks. The school run is a breeze with high safety ratings and intelligent airbag systems. You’ll experience all-round protection when you need it most.

Cruise the open road in your first vehicle

Ready to get behind the wheel of your first vehicle? At My Car Credit, we want to make securing car finance simple and accessible when you’re purchasing your first vehicle.

To find out how we can get you on the road, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
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Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Top 10 Child-Friendly Cars in Time for Back to School

Children sat in the back of child-friendly cars going to school

With the end of summer holidays approaching, and schools across the UK reopening after COVID-19, families everywhere are getting ready for the back to school rush. As well as managing uniforms, stationery and new-term anxiety, parents and carers also have to adapt to a change of routine, full of busy school runs, drop-offs and pick-ups. It goes without saying that a spacious and safe child-friendly car is an absolute must to cope with the stark transition.

While there are plenty of fantastic models available, the wide variety of features and machinery on offer can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, there’s no need to worry. To help you make the right decision, we’ve compiled our top ten family-friendly cars to suit all budgets and circumstances.

Best cars for large families

Citroen Picasso

Anyone with more than the average ‘2.4 children’ will understand the frustration of a standard five-seater car. Two child seats usually fill the back, with the option for a child over 12 in the front passenger seat. That means you’ll need something a bit bigger if you’ve got four kids, three under 12, or another adult sitting in the passenger seat.

The Citroen Grand C4 Picasso 7-Seater is a great option in this respect. Two additional seats fold out from the boot, allowing you to cater for all the kids comfortable and safely, without the typical bulk of a people carrier. It’s also designed with a larger middle seat in the back row of three, allowing you to fit three child seats in the back.

Kia Sorento

Another great option when you need to seat more than four or five is the Kia Sorento. Again, this car provides seven seats without the unwieldy people carrier look. Styled as an SUV, the car boasts seven spacious seats – again capable of fitting three child seats in the back row alone.

Practicality is a checked box, with a reasonable 142 litres at minimum capacity, expanding to 660 litres with the third row of seats folded and a huge 1,732 with the back seats down too. That’s paired with a range of optional entertainment features on the KX-4 like Bose Premium Surround Sound, a Panoramic Sunroof and Wireless Phone Charging that will make the school run that bit easier for restless kids.

 

Best compact cars for tight car parks and busy roads

Ford Focus

The best-selling Ford Focus proves that you don’t need an enormous SUV to have a valuable family car. In fact, its compact size makes navigating busy school roads and tight car parks easier than ever.

While it doesn’t look like one of the most spacious models, it’s well-suited towards family commitments and comes with adequate rear space for drop-offs and pick-ups.

Plus, one of the most attractive features is Ford’s Active Park Assist, which steers you into parking spaces just 20% longer than your vehicle. The innovative sensors are simple to operate, automatically gaging space to avoid possible accidents.

Hyundai i10

The Hyundai i10’s intelligent packaging maximises interior space while remaining small enough to effortlessly zip around. While its 252-litre boot may sound small, it still offers enough space for families of four to store all their belongings.

Most impressively, this mini drive has surprisingly nifty handling. Its tight turning circle, agility and light steering makes squeezing into parking spaces a breeze, even on rainy days.

Best safety-first cars

Volvo V40

With so much cutting-edge technology, the Volvo V40 makes travelling with small children and driving through hectic school areas amazingly safe and stress-free.

A trailblazer in car safety standards, it boasts a host of impressive features including airbags, inflatable curtains, pre-crash preparation systems, laser-based braking units, auto brakes, pedestrian detection systems, rear cross-traffic detectors and blind spot warning alerts.

Renault Megane Hatchback

With safety at the forefront of design, the Megane possesses a wide range of advanced systems that promises to put the most anxious drivers’ minds at rest.

To ensure the smoothest driving experience possible, there’s adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, traffic-sign recognition and parking sensors. Plus, the Euro NCAP awarded it the maximum five-star overall protection rating, as well as a score of 87% for child protection.

Best fuel-efficient cars for increased use

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is a fantastic, fuel-efficient alternative to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, making it ideal for families always on-the-go.

Despite the lack of full hybrid models, the mild-hybrid system offers a small amount of electrical assistance to improve the vehicle’s overall efficiency, meaning fewer running costs for you. Plus, because of its lightweight structure, there’s less stress on brake components and tyres, meaning replacements could be required less frequently.

Toyota Prius 1.8 VVTi

The Prius brought hybrid technology into the mainstream market, merging eco-efficiency with sleek aesthetics. In fact, it’s probably the most recognisable hybrid vehicle on our roads, and a firm favourite for environmentally conscious families. 

Powered by Toyota’s full hybrid powertrain, which reduces carbon dioxide emissions to a low of 70g/km, the Prius costs surprisingly little to own and run. Additionally, its 1.8 litre petrol engine and powerful electric motor deliver a smooth and wonderfully quiet driving experience.

Best affordable family cars

Fiat Tipo

The Fiat Tipo is budget and child-friendly, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune when looking for a brand-new family car.

Prices start between £12,995-£15,550, which is more than reasonable for a five-door hatchback with a 440-litre boot, air conditioning, electric front windows, DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity. The roomy interior is equally impressive, with plenty wiggle room for families of all sizes.

Vauxhall Astra

The Vauxhall Astra is one of the most popular cars in the UK, rivalling esteemed family SUVs and the likes of the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. Its main selling point is its surprising price tag, with negotiations starting from around £14,500 for a used model.

The Astra is described as a down-to-earth, no-frills family hatchback. Nevertheless, the overall quality is impressive, with soft-touch interiors and a high-tech dashboard. Thanks to its emphasis on comfort, school runs needn’t feel drab.

Take the hassle away

Getting the kids back to school doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Neither does finding car finance. At My Car Credit, we want to make it quicker and easier to secure car finance for your perfect back-to-school car.

Want to find out more? Call us on 01246 458 810 or email enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. We’ll get back to you in no time to discuss your options. 

Rates from 6.9% APR. Representative APR 13.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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£X

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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