What are the best small family cars?

Most car manufacturers have a small car offering, but if you know next to nothing about cars, what is the best one to go for? We looked at some of the best cars giving a good mix between safety, economy and style, and came up with these top picks. 

 

 

 

What we say: not the most fun, but a great no-nonsense car that ticks the budget box.  Comfortable and spacious, it gets an 'okay' 4 star NCAP based on a 2004 model test. Octavia's start at around €17,000 for a basic model and fall into B Band for motor tax at that level.

 

  

 

What we say: refined and fun to drive. A very practical all-rounder. You can get a petrol 3 door version for €19,000, but the 1.6 diesel 5 door, which we'd recommend, goes for €21,900 and is in Band A road tax (just over €100 per year). Not the cheapest, but Golf's hold their value well, so your cost of ownership isn't as high as it might first appear. Great safety rating with NCAP 5 stars (97% adult, 84% child).

 

  

 

What we say: stylish, reliable and good levels of extras. From just over €21,000, the Mazda 3 Hatchback is in the same price range as a Golf and also benefits from Band A motor tax.  NCAP is an excellent 5 stars (86% adult, 84% child).

 

 

  

 

What we say: the new all-electric car from Nissan. Big enough to suit a small family, possibly in many cases as a second 'town car'. Range of 160km approx. Expensive to buy (€30,000 after grant) but peanuts to run. Eight-hour charging time means you have to be organised (ESB are rolling out charging points throughout the Republic and you'll need a home charging point too). NCAP: not yet rated.

 

 

Do you have a small family car that you swear by? If so, let us know.