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

Motability’s definition of a ‘premium’ car is outdated, and here’s why
Tom Motability opinion

Motability’s definition of a ‘premium’ car is outdated, and here’s why

Our consumer reporter believes Motability needs to get with the times and reasses what it classifies as a premium car
Opinion
28 Nov 2025
Exclusive car stereo test: are premium car audio upgrades worth it?
 Car Audio test - VW driving

Exclusive car stereo test: are premium car audio upgrades worth it?

We listen to what the experts at Richer Sounds think about car companies' regular and upgraded stereo set-ups
Features
1 Dec 2025
New Kia Seltos ready for big reveal: compact SUV with petrol power to be uncovered in days
Kia Seltos - front teased

New Kia Seltos ready for big reveal: compact SUV with petrol power to be uncovered in days

Kia clearly can’t get enough of the small SUV sector
News
1 Dec 2025