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 Volvo XC40 facelift: popular SUV gets Range Rover-esque makeover
Volvo XC40 - Ellis Hyde front

New Volvo XC40 facelift: popular SUV gets Range Rover-esque makeover

The pure-electric Volvo EX40 and EC40 coupe-SUV have also been updated again, now delivering up to 359 miles of range
News
10 Sep 2026
Future of Chery: fast-growing Chinese brand plans four new cars
Chery range

Future of Chery: fast-growing Chinese brand plans four new cars

Four new models to include an EV and a new Tiggo SUV, says UK country manager Farrell Hsu
News
11 Sep 2026
La Cinquecento’s Fiat 500 Scattante is an Italian icon made in Britain
La Cinquecento’s 500 Scattante

La Cinquecento’s Fiat 500 Scattante is an Italian icon made in Britain

This remastered version of the original Fiat 500 was created by new outfit La Cinquecento, which plans to build only a handful each year
News
11 Sep 2026