Background car news

In a family car, it is first and foremost about your own safety – for yourself and for your family. Modern cars are equipped with advanced safety features, such as airbag systems, electronic stability control, assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking assistance, lane keeping assist and blind spot detection, and ISOFIX child seat attachment points. Of course, you also look to see if the car got good crash test results.

Furthermore, practicality plays an important role. Are there convenient storage compartments, a large trunk space? Are the door openings spacious enough or even sliding doors? Such things make all the difference in daily use.

Space and comfort are also important. With children on board, you want enough room for one or more high chairs, sports bags, a stroller or perhaps even a bicycle. Furthermore, you want to be able to count on reliability and favorable energy consumption, so the car won’t let you down easily and remains affordable to operate and maintain. You don’t want to skimp on your family, but cost does weigh in, as does handling. A family car does not have to be sporty, but above all it should drive stably and comfortably, even with a full load.

We randomly list some good family cars based on these criteria – from a variety of categories: hatchbacks, MPVs, SUVs and station wagons. But which car is the best family car for you will depend on your priorities and preferences.

Volkswagen Golf – all-rounder among hatchbacks

The Volkswagen Golf has been a popular choice for families for decades – moreover, it has continued to grow over the years. However, the five-door hatchback offers a good balance between compact size and a surprising amount of space. In the back, child seats fit without a problem, and the luggage space is spacious enough for a baby carriage and a hefty overnight bag.

What sets the Golf apart is its wide range of engines. From economical gasoline and diesel versions to the plug-in hybrid Golf GTE with 150 kW (204 hp) of power and an all-electric range of several dozen kilometers. The Golf is known for its solidity and extensive safety equipment. Prices of a new Volkswagen Golf start around 37,000 euros. Of course, there is also the extra practical Volkswagen Golf Variant.

Toyota Corolla Touring Sports – spacious, reliable station wagon

For those who need more luggage space, the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports is an excellent option. This estate car combines Japanese reliability with plenty of interior space and generous luggage room. Especially for families who often hit the road with stroller(s), suitcases and/or sports gear, this model is a godsend.

The Corolla Touring Sports features hybrid powertrains, such as a 1.8 Hybrid with 103 kW (140 hp) and a 2.0 Hybrid with 144 kW (196 hp). The advantage of hybrid driving is favorable fuel economy, especially on short distances. In addition, the Toyota has many safety systems as standard, such as adaptive cruise control and lane assist. Prices of the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports start around 36,000 euros.

Skoda Octavia Combi – the spacious classic

The Skoda Octavia Combi has been one of the most appreciated family cars in the Netherlands for years. The estate car offers an exceptionally spacious trunk (over 600 liters), which also makes it ideal for family vacations with growing children and their belongings.

The Octavia is available with a variety of engines: gasoline, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid. A popular choice is the 1.5 TSI e-TEC with 110 kW (150 hp), which is economical to drive as well as providing plenty of pulling power. Skoda is known for its clever (Simply Clever) solutions, such as an ice scraper in the fuel filler door and practical storage compartments. Prices for the Skoda Octavia Combi start at around 36,000 euros.

Renault Scenic E-Tech – modern MPV with electric drive

If you prefer an MPV, you will soon come to the new Renault Scenic E-Tech electric. Although the MPV market has shrunk in recent years, Renault believes there is still enough demand for a family car with plenty of interior space and a practical layout. The latest Scenic is a bit more SUV-like than previous models, though.

The Scenic E-Tech electric is fully electric and has a power output of 160 kW (218 hp). With a battery of up to 87 kWh, the range is ample for daily trips as well as longer trips. Inside, you benefit from the flat and slightly higher floor and still plenty of headroom. The luggage space is also generous, making this a perfect family car. Prices for the Renault Scenic E-Tech start at around 41,000 euros.

Kia Sportage – versatile SUV for the whole family

SUVs are popular with families, and the Kia Sportage shows why. The tough-looking model combines a high seating position – pleasant for traffic visibility and kids’ views – with plenty of interior space and a flexible trunk. The rear seat offers plenty of room, both for child seats and taller passengers.

The Sportage comes with various powertrains, such as the 1.6 T-GDi hybrid with 169 kW (230 hp) of power and a plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive. Useful for families who also hit the road with a caravan or trailer. Kia is also known for its comprehensive seven-year warranty, which is reassuring for many family heads and breadwinners. Prices of the Kia Sportage start around 38,000 euros.

Tesla Model Y – electric family SUV

Finally, the Tesla Model Y, an electric SUV that has quickly gained a foothold in the Dutch market. This midsize SUV offers five spacious seats and one of the largest luggage compartments in its class, including an additional front luggage compartment.

The Model Y is available in several versions, including the Long Range with a range of over 500 kilometers and 378 kW (514 hp) of power. Thanks to the extensive Supercharger network in Europe, this EV is particularly suitable for families who often drive long distances, for example to vacation destinations outside the Netherlands. Prices of the Tesla Model Y start around 45,000 euros.

‘The best’ family car does not exist

So there is no one best family car. One family may be satisfied with a compact hatchback like the Volkswagen Golf, while another needs the space of an estate car like the Skoda Octavia or the Toyota Corolla. Perhaps the electric drive of the Renault Scenic E-Tech is critical for your family. For those who value higher entry and SUV looks, the Kia Sportage or the Tesla Model Y are ideal.

The important thing is that your car fits the makeup of your family, your budget and how you will use it. Pay attention to occupant protection, space, comfort and reliability. The choice is vast, but you will definitely find a family car that fits your family situation perfectly.