When it comes time to choose a new family car, often the first thought is that bigger equals better. However, bigger can also mean bigger fuel costs, larger insurance premiums and a lot more stress. But what if you could still fit the kids, the shopping and easily navigate the car parks, all while saving a bit more money? A lot of small cars today are cleverly designed so that they feel roomy in the places it matters. Below are a few small cars that you’ll find ample room to fit the whole family comfortably.
Kia Picanto
A well-known, much-loved name, Kia small cars have always been a popular choice amongst families. The Picanto is the pick of the bunch, being compact yet offering so much kit for the price. You get a decent size infotainment screen with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cruise control and a reversing camera to help you with the tricky school pickups.
For such a small car, its drivability is really notable. Even though the 1.0 litre isn’t the most gutsy you can opt for the 1.2L for a little more power (if you really need it), but the 1.0L should be plenty for getting the family around. The overall driving experience is much more like that of a higher model. It’s one of the most affordable small cars money can buy, from the overall price to even getting insurance and filling up its tank, making it incredibly good value for money.
Renault Clio
If you want a car that still feels big, then it’s worth having a look at the Renault Clio. New Clios have a modern, bold look that’s visually very striking and appealing. You get a lot of equipment as standard too so you don’t feel like you’re having to keep slashing out more cash for even basic useful features.
Its range includes petrol and hybrid engine options, so you can still enjoy some improved fuel economy, reaching around 60mpg in the real world, without having to pay luxury car prices. The Clio’s interior is incredibly family-friendly, too. The backseats offer plenty of space with a decent middle section that 3 people can sit back there when needed. Its boot is also pretty huge compared to its competitors, up to 391 liters (model dependant), making it larger than even models in classes above it.
Toyota Aygo X
The original Aygos were very much a bargain but also a bit flimsy, cheap and just overall didn’t feel very secure, not making it a great family car. Now, however, they’ve got a lot more family-friendly – a bit bigger, sturdier and even come with hybrid options.
The hybrid engine is extremely economical, where you can actually get up to 70mpg in the real world. Even with the good fuel economy, the engine is no slouch with a powerful 1.5l getting 116hp – great for bounding down the motorway, off on your next family holiday. It’s a great package if you want to balance needing a family car that’s good value and a good overall driving experience.
There are so many options for small affordable family cars nowadays, you really don’t have to spend above your means and get a massive SUV to fit everyone and everything in. You can instead save money (and stress) by getting a much more compact smaller car that still has everything you and your family could need.
