Skip advert
Advertisement

Best family car

Our guide names the best cars for fine driving dynamics, value and reliability.

1. Skoda Octavia (new)
2. Rover 75
3. Mazda 6 (new)

“Just perfect - spot on in quality, reliability, performance, practicality, dealer service. Really fit for purpose. Going to get another one soon.” Mr Chris Walker, Bristol, Avon.

You voted Skoda’s new Octavia as the top traditional family car. Few could question its practicality, but the model also offers fine driving dynamics, value and reliability.

Advertisement - Article continues below

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"79276","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

In second and fourth are two old Longbridge favourites: the Rover 75 and MG ZT. Owners gush with praise and pride about these cars, which are now real bargains on the used market. Sandwiched between the British pair is Mazda’s second-generation 6. Both hatch and estate versions deliver masses of space, and the car shares much of the appeal of the Mondeo on which it’s based, but manages to finish one place ahead of its Ford rival.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Audi A3 to stick with petrol and target big quality boost
Audi A3 render (watermarked) - front

New Audi A3 to stick with petrol and target big quality boost

The popular hatchback is set to be reborn with a new look, higher quality and cutting- edge tech as Audi looks to lead the premium car class
News
24 Aug 2026
Updated Renault 5 offers more range, more Google tech and even more style
2026 Renault 5 update - front overhead

Updated Renault 5 offers more range, more Google tech and even more style

Revised aero, new LFP battery chemistry and more colour options added to award-winning electric supermini
News
25 Aug 2026
New Ford Fiesta ST: ‘non-negotiable’ return of an iconic hot hatch
Ford Fiesta ST render (watermarked) - front

New Ford Fiesta ST: ‘non-negotiable’ return of an iconic hot hatch

Fast Fords are ‘non-negotiable’, the first could be a return of the hot Fiesta ST supermini
News
21 Aug 2026