Although family cars have never traditionally been classed as the most fashionable of vehicles in the motor industry, with people more interested in the space available in the cars than anything else, attitudes appear to be changing. This has made its way to the car makers who are now producing vehicles in ever more innovative ways, in turn giving the image of the humble family car an altogether sexier image. Below is a list of what we think are the top five family cars, in no particular order.
Renault Scenic
Considering the experience Renault have had over the years in the MPV market, you would expect the new incarnation of the Renault Scenic to be at least up there with the best of them – and t is. As ideal as any family car could be, the new Scenic looks nicer, feels a better drive and, more importantly for larger families, has used its interior space very cleverly indeed. The various models all come with their own little options and nuances and you would be hard-pressed to find a better family car option.
Hyundai i800
The Hyundai i800 is a people mover with a difference. This eight-seater is unlike other vehicles of its type insofar as the luggage space afforded, even with a full complement of passengers, is more than enough to cope with demand. Exit and entry into this tank of a vehicle is through large sliding doors and leg room is more than adequate. With a five-speed gear box which is mounted on the dashboard and a nicely weighted steering wheel, driving this 2.5 litre beast is an absolute pleasure. Performance and stability are never an issue and because this car is made in Korea, it can be acquired for up to ten grand less than a similar size/spec vehicle from other manufacturers.
Vauxhall Insignia
The Vauxhall Insignia is one of those family saloons that actually give “saloons” a good name. Although its predecessor didn’t exactly win any prizes in the “cool” stakes, the new Insignia is altogether a different proposition. Being not only fun to drive, it is also a good looking car that is relatively cheap in the family car segment of the market. With a range of safety features including a comprehensive brake assistance system, ABS with electronic break force distribution, a comprehensive brake assistance system and cornering brake control, electronic stability program and traction control, the Insignia is definitely at the forefront of family cars.
Nissan Qashqai
The Qashqai was the result of a very brave decision by Nissan – one that could have backfired spectacularly, but lucky for them, didn’t. Possibly being classed as the first real “crossover” car, the intention of the car was to marry all the better qualities of an SUV with those of a hatchback. The result was a rather tall, wide shape in an SUV mould which wasn’t that much bigger than a medium sized hatchback. With a large, very comfortable interior and a ringed instrument cluster that houses a diminutive information display screen flanked by large gauges, the Qashqai is an ideal family car. Its handling on the road is impressive, as is the fact that it is made in…England.
Ford Kuga
Based on its more well-known sibling the Focus, the Ford Kuga is classed as one of the best smaller 4×4’s on the market. Its stylish good looks and streamlined body have made it a firm family favourite. With adequate space to carry four individuals more than comfortably, and with ample luggage space in the boot, the car handles the road superbly. Although the designers of the car did in fact conclude that the car will probably very rarely be driven off-road, the emphasis was put well and truly into the on-road development of the vehicle. That’s not to say it doesn’t handle the off-road, it does. Just not as well as some of the “true” 4×4’s out there.
