What’s the best family car? Answering that definitively is almost impossible, even for a title that has been steeped in all things automotive for almost 130 years.
The best family cars combine a handful of characteristics, including comfort, build quality and practicality, with enough flexibility for both long road trips and quick runs to the shops.
Whether you're a new parent juggling work or someone who's constantly hauling kids and their seemingly endless piles of stuff, there are several cars out there that fit the 'family wagon' bill.
Our top pick? The BMW 3 Series Touring. This estate shines with its all-around capabilities, hitting all the high notes of a family car with its practicality, fun-to-drive feel and seriously impressive plug-in hybrid option.
But there are many other options well worth considering, from SUVs to estates to saloons. Read on to find out the best family cars you can get in the UK.
Best for: Driving dynamics
The BMW 3 Series Touring estate is the one to take if you’re adamant that family life and enjoying driving don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
If the budget allows, you can get yourself behind the wheel of the beguiling BMW M3 Touring, but fear not, because the regular four-cylinder 320i model will still give drivers the sense of feedback and control that makes a routine journey less of a chore.
If a four-cylinder lump won't cut it, the M340i is a standout performance estate car that hits the family car brief while also being fun to drive.
The plug-in hybrid 330e will appeal to company car drivers and fleets alike and has neatly filled the void left by the diesel 320d, which is no longer sold in the UK. Its blend of performance and economy is still segment-leading.
Its low roofline does limit its ultimate carrying capacity, but 500 litres is still enough for several carry-on suitcases.
Read our BMW 3 Series Touring review
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Not a single EV in a list of top ten family cars seems obtuse at best.
Wow, some great family car options here! The BMW 3 Series Touring sounds amazing for those who love to drive. But the Dacia Jogger? Seriously considering that for the space and the price. Might be perfect for our big family adventures! @Wu-Tang Name Generator
This article provides an insightful look into the "best family cars," rightly acknowledging that "family" is a broad term. The emphasis on comfort, space, and practicality, alongside competent all-around performance, resonates deeply. It's smart to highlight top contenders like the BMW 3 Series Touring for driving enthusiasts and the Dacia Jogger for value-conscious big families. While the article doesn't touch on car entertainment, I'm always thinking about how modern cars could integrate features for families, perhaps even a throwback entertainment system that allows kids to play retro games on long journeys, adding a nostalgic twist to road trips. Overall, a very useful guide for diverse family needs.