For a true car enthusiast, making the crossover to the dreaded ‘family car’ isn’t the easiest choice. No-one wants to give up on the dream of owning a Jag or a Porsche. Unfortunately, three children and a dog simply aren’t going to fit in your hypothetical 911! Instead, it’s time to bite the bullet and invest in a sensible, safe and practical family car. Or is it?
Buying a family car no longer means getting stuck with a Ford Mondeo or a Volvo. The family car market has grown so rapidly, you can now find a practical and cool family car. Trust us, there are some amazing models out there that can satisfy both you and the family. The cars on this list are fast, exciting and practical. Getting a family car doesn’t mean giving up!
1) Seat Leon Cupra Hatchback
We know that Seat hasn’t always been the coolest name in cars. But get behind the wheel of the new Leon hatchback and you won’t give a second thought to the badge. This car is wild and powerful. The reason is the engine is near identical to the VW Golf GTi. It’s exhilarating, speedy and handles beautifully. There’s also a ton of boot space and it has a good safety rating too.
2) Land Rover Range Rover
In the last ten years, the rise of the SUV has been unstoppable. What was once the preserve of off-road terrain is now the staple of the school run. Its large size makes it safe and spacious for the family. Yet, open the Range Rover up on the weekends and it will handle everything you throw at it. Take it off road, into the mountains and squeeze every ounce of fun from it.
3) Mazda 6
The Mazda MX5 has become the entry level sports car for petrolheads. It’s affordable, fast and one of the most fun cars on the planet. The Mazda 6 takes this spirit of fun and excitement and puts it in a family car. It looks great, runs well and goes like the wind. This car is the king of country roads. You’ll love winding round the corners and the kids will have loads of room in the back. Everyone’s happy.
4) Audi S4
If you’re willing to bump up the budget a little, then the S4 is the perfect car. It has the space of an SUV inside, but it goes like a sports car. It will hit 0-60 in less than five seconds which will keep the petrolheads happy. It has four wheel drive, a five star safety rating and it looks fantastic. The vast technology will keep you busy too. It’s the best car here if you can stretch the finances.
5) Ford Focus Hatchback
The Ford Focus is a classic mid-sized family car. Its reputation alone means you can visit a dealer like Carbase and buy with confidence. However, this isn’t just the Ford Focus of old. The 2014 model is simply fantastic. If you can afford the ST version you’ll land yourself one of the best mid-range cars on the market. It has everything: speed, power, handling, fun, practicality, space and safety. It is the perfect family hatchback.
See, we told you family cars don’t have to be boring. These five cars are the perfect balance of fun and practicality. Drop the kids off at school, then have some fun!