Top five used family cars

Buying a used family car demands a bit of planning to make sure you get the right car for your needs but also one which provides good overall economy and feels like a comfortable ride.
Below is a top five list of used family cars as judged by an online motoring magazine.

Top of the pick is the Ford Mondeo hatchback which depending on model, age and mileage can set you back anything up to £18 000. It is in fact the models from 07 and later which come in at the top spot. The 00-07 models ended up in a respectable fifth position. The newer model wins the prize for best family car because of its great value and safe ride although it doesn’t win any medals for its image. Buyers should opt for 2.0-litre diesel engine to get the best value.

Runner up is the more stylish looking Volkswagen Passat Saloon which is described as good enough to even rival cars such as the BMW 3 series and the Audi A4. It’s a comfortable drive with plenty of space although the rear visibility is poor.

Third in the list of top five used family cars is the trusted Toyota Avensis Saloon. It comes with masses of safety kit and is an impressive and comfortable ride but petrol engines can get a bit noisy so you might want to opt for a diesel version. A used vehicle will set you back anything up to £15 000 for the newest models. If you want to try out a used Toyota, Rayleigh in Essex is one area where you can find dealers offering this make.

Number four of the used family cars is the Mazda 6 Hatchback (02 -07) which is both roomy and well made and looks good. It’s let down by sometimes being too noisy on the motorway and maybe a bit too firm for city driving.

Third in the list of top five used family cars is the trusted Toyota Avensis Saloon. It comes with masses of safety kit and is an impressive and comfortable ride but petrol engines can get a bit noisy so you might want to opt for a diesel version. A used vehicle will set you back anything up to £15 000 for the newest models. If you want to try out a used Toyota, Rayleigh in Essex is one area where you can find dealers offering this make.

Number four of the used family cars is the Mazda 6 Hatchback (02 -07) which is both roomy and well made and looks good. It’s let down by sometimes being too noisy on the motorway and maybe a bit too firm for city driving.