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 Ford Explorer Van revealed for those seeking more style than a humble Transit
New Ford Explorer Van - front angled

New Ford Explorer Van revealed for those seeking more style than a humble Transit

Explorer Van has arrived as an official conversion from Ford’s team in Dagenham
News
9 Apr 2026
New Mercedes CLA review: style over space in this classy estate
Auto Express news reporter Ellis Hyde standing next to the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake

New Mercedes CLA review: style over space in this classy estate

The Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake is a stylish alternative to an SUV, but a bigger boot wouldn't go amiss
Road tests
8 Apr 2026
Updated Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 get power and range boosts
Updated VW ID.5 GTX

Updated Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 get power and range boosts

Volkswagen is still looking to keep the ID.4 and ID.5 fresh, despite the imminent arrival of the ID. Tiguan
News
9 Apr 2026