Got a bun in the oven? Are you eating for two? Or, are you simply planning on a larger family somewhere in the not too distant future? Asides from potentially moving somewhere larger to make room for the pitter patter of more tiny feet, you may also need a new set of wheels since you’ll be spending the next 18 years ferrying your kid and their friends from pillar to post and back again.
With that in mind, below you’ll find 11 cars that are perfect for an expanding family, with both new and potentially used cars listed to help cater for all budgets. Let’s dive in…
Citroen Grand C4 Picasso (2014-2018)
The spaceship-like Picasso is an excellent seven-seat people carrier popular with growing families. There’s a huge amount of space inside, the third-row seats are individual, and there are loads of cubby holes for the kids to get their stuff tidied away in. Best of all, it soaks up Britain’s potholed roads with aplomb.
The Citroen C4 Grand Picasso also boasts a panoramic windscreen and large windows, ensuring a bright and airy cabin that enhances the driving experience. The flexible seating arrangement allows for various configurations, making it easy to adapt to different family needs, whether it’s a long road trip or a quick school run.
Renault Grand Scenic (2016-2020)
Another French seven-seater makes the list. The Grand Scenic is full of clever features, such as the third row of seats folding down at the touch of a button. The ride is also super comfortable, especially at faster speeds. Interesting engines too, with a clever diesel hybrid on offer.
The Renault Grand Scenic also includes a host of safety features, such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, providing peace of mind for parents. The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials, and the infotainment system is intuitive, keeping everyone entertained on long journeys.
Volkswagen Tiguan (2016-present)
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a versatile and stylish SUV that has become a favourite among growing families. With its robust build quality, spacious interior, and advanced technology, the Tiguan offers a compelling package for those in need of a reliable family vehicle. The second row of seats slides and reclines, providing ample legroom, and the boot offers a substantial 615 litres of space, expanding to 1,655 litres when the rear seats are folded down.
The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and safety features like adaptive cruise control and emergency braking are standard. Inside, the cabin is designed with top-notch materials, ensuring comfort and quality for every journey.
You might pay for the privilege, with the Tiguan starting at around £30’000, though according to VW prices on IAAI, used models sell for significantly less.
Dacia Jogger (2022-present)
The first new car on the list. Dacia, the Romanian purveyors of very well priced cars, has released a seven-seat estate-come SUV that’s been mopping up awards. It’s a huge car that looks great, and it costs the same amount as a typical used car of the same size. What’s not to like?
The Dacia Jogger also impresses with its practicality, offering a modular roof rail system and a spacious boot that can accommodate all the family’s gear. The Jogger’s efficient engines ensure low running costs, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious families without compromising on space or comfort.
Peugeot 5008 (2016-present)
Don’t be fooled by the SUV-alike looks. This 5008 is secretly an MPV with seven individual seats that all fold flat into the floor. Importantly, you can also fit three bulky Isofix child seats side-by-side in the middle row. The engine range is punchy and efficient too.
The Peugeot 5008 also features a sleek and modern interior, complete with Peugeot’s i-Cockpit, which includes a compact steering wheel and a high-mounted digital display. This setup not only looks futuristic but also enhances driving ergonomics, making long drives more comfortable and enjoyable for the driver.
Mercedes GLB (2019-present)
Another new car. And another MPV hiding in SUV clothing. In many respects the GLB offers a similar formula to the 5008 above, but it puts its mechanicals in a more appealing package thanks to a plush interior and enviable badge. A 302bhp AMG version is also up for grabs if you really want to put the fear of god into the little ones.
The Mercedes GLB also stands out with its advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, ensuring a safe and stress-free driving experience. The interior is spacious and versatile, with the option to fold down the third row for additional cargo space when needed.
Vauxhall Zafira Tourer (2012-2018)
With five seats in place the Zafira Tourer can hold some 710 litres worth of luggage. With all five seats down you get a maximum of 1,860 litres. There’s enough room with seven seats for a couple of soft bags, but there are loads of storage compartments – Vauxhall says up to 30.
The storage system between driver and passenger is set on rails, so your cup holders and armrest can move back to reveal another deep storage hole. In other words, if you value flexibility above all else, this one’s for you.
Additionally, the Zafira Tourer offers a range of efficient engines, ensuring that you can find a model that balances performance and fuel economy to suit your family’s needs.
Read: 10 IDEAL second hand family cars
Fiat 500L MPW (2013-2017)
If your family is growing to the point where your Fiat 500 is now too small, the Italian firm has an alternative. The L MPW is essentially a really stretched 500 with seating for seven and a big boot. Sure, it won’t win any beauty prizes. But it maintains a lot of the charm of the OG 500.
The Fiat 500L MPW also comes with a variety of personalisation options, allowing you to add a touch of individuality to your family car. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring numerous storage compartments and a user-friendly infotainment system to keep everyone entertained on the go.
Ford S-Max (2014-present)
The S-Max is for all intents and purposes, a sporty version of the Ford Galaxy. And you know what? For a flexible and practical family haulier, it really drives well. Petrol and diesel engines are on offer and they pull well, but it’s the handling that’s really special. It drives as well as a much, much smaller car.
The Ford S-Max also includes advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition, ensuring a secure driving experience. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom for all passengers, making it an ideal choice for long family trips.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (2021-present)
BMW may not call this an MPV, but it is. The Active Tourer brings with it a strong engine lineup and loads of room inside. It’s also a really good steer.
It certainly feels like a BMW to drive, with the interior also typically BMW, meaning it’s brimming with the latest tech. What’s more, BMW repair and maintenance is generally fast and efficiently done. Result!
Mercedes V-Class (2014-present)
Luxury MPVs don’t get much more practical than this. The V-Class brings with it the usual trappings of Mercedes, but adds in a huge slice of space. And best of all, the ride quality is superb. It floats where others crash and bump, ensuring a calm and serene ride for your little ones.
Now we’ve got the wheels covered, let’s zoom out a little, and explore these 6 simple ways to prepare for a new arrival in the family. No, not the car, silly…