15 Best Affordable Family Cars in the UK

Used models, with plenty of reliability and efficiency, are great if you’re looking for affordable family cars. You can save a lot upfront, and with smart decisions, you’ll save even more on running costs. Being budget-friendly becomes especially important when considering a car for your family’s growing needs. With mouths to feed and bills to manage, choosing affordable cars makes perfect sense.

Without further delay, here are the most affordable family cars that excel in every aspect. Let us also mention that Carplus is the ideal tool for hassle-free car financing with excellent terms. Be sure to check it out!

1. Škoda Octavia

The Škoda Octavia is a nice cheap family car, especially when you go for entry-level models. What makes it practical for families is a spacious interior and large boot.

For the best fuel economy, consider the plug-in hybrid 1.4-litre TSI iV, but there are efficient engines in the traditional lineup, too. For example, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel offers excellent efficiency. The interior features plush materials on the top surfaces and solid construction throughout, with some textured plastics lower down for added durability.

2. Dacia Duster

The Dacia Duster is known for its hard-wearing interior and affordability, especially with diesel engines averaging more than 50 mpg. Alternatively, the TCe 130 petrol engine provides good fuel economy with more than 45 mpg in everyday driving.

If you see your Duster strictly as a budget-friendly family car, the plastic quality of the interior shouldn’t be a concern, as it feels well-built. The storage space is complemented by various storage slots and a modular system YouClip developed by Dacia.

3. Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai is a rugged SUV designed for family adventures, and it blends edgy off-roader elements with practical automotive features.

Opting for the early 1.5 model offers adequate fuel economy, with an average of at least 50 mpg. The post-facelift 1.5 variant has a claimed official 74.3 mpg in certain trims. The best-performing petrol option in later models is the 1.3 140hp with 53.2 mpg. The Qashqai’s interior is well-built, with faux-leather panels adding a touch of luxury to the dashboard and doors.

4. Hyundai i30

The Hyundai i30, a small hatch with immense value for money, is packed with essential modern driving features for commuting and city traffic.

If you frequently drive on highways, the 1.6-litre diesel option offers good fuel economy, but the petrol variant (a naturally aspirated 2.0) performs well for occasional long trips.

It provides a comfortable ride that absorbs bumps effectively, and precise steering allows for accurate cornering. As for safety features, it has a perfect Euro NCAP rating.

5. Dacia Sandero

The Dacia Sandero offers good driving performance and practicality, making it one of the best budget family cars.

If you’re looking for a petrol, there’s a 90hp version and a 100hp petrol/LPG bi-fuel variant, both achieving around 53 mpg. There’s also a more potent 1.5-litre diesel option available.

The Sandero has a spacious cabin suitable for the whole family. Despite its low cost, even the basic Essential trim has clear dials and a stylish dashboard.

6. Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is a highly recommended choice for budget-conscious families.

The Golf’s engine lineup offers sleek petrol or diesel options, ensuring you won’t feel underpowered. For those prioritizing fuel economy, there’s a plug-in hybrid model with a good electric-only range of up to 45 miles. The car is comfortable on the motorway and enjoyable on curves.

Inside, you’ll find high-quality materials and ample space in the boot for family trips. Plus, the Golf has a reputation as a reliable vehicle.

7. Peugeot 308

The Peugeot 308 is made for those seeking a distinctive car but not fancying an SUV. It offers different engine variants, including a 1.2 petrol and a 1.5 diesel, both with 129hp. Also, there are PHEV versions combining a 1.6 petrol engine complemented by an electric motor for 178hp.

The 308 excels in low running costs, driving experience, passenger space, luggage capacity, and interior quality. The front offers plenty of space even for bigger people, while the back is suitable for smaller adults or kids. The entry-level 308 comes generously equipped.

8. Kia Ceed

The Kia Ceed is a solid choice — practical and affordable — especially compared to rivals. While it may not turn heads, it gets the job done.

With options like a frugal 1.0-litre petrol and a diesel with mild-hybrid technology, it brings in some truly fuel-efficient engines.

It achieved high safety ratings on the Euro NCAP crash test, though top marks require the Advanced Driving Assistance Pack. The boot, while not massive, is deep, well-shaped, and suitable for the needs of smaller families.

9. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a small car with excellent value. The previous-generation range included turbocharged petrol engines and a frugal 1.6-litre diesel. Now, newer hybrid versions combine a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, which delivers ample power and impressive fuel efficiency of up to 60 mpg.

The Civic is a bit noisier than some rivals, and the interior space isn’t the roomiest. But the Civic makes up for it with its generous equipment and low maintenance costs.

10. Ford Focus

The Ford Focus is a great family hatchback and one of the top performers in its class, with truly enjoyable handling for drivers and frugal engines.

You have options like the 1.0-litre petrol engine with 125hp and 155hp, both featuring a mild hybrid system. The more powerful engine achieves up to 55 mpg. Alternatively, consider the automatic diesel version, a refined cruiser with smooth performance.

Despite its compact size, the Focus feels spacious in the boot and cabin storage.

11. Suzuki Swift

The Suzuki Swift presents good value for a used family car but doesn’t compromise on quality. Whether you opt for the petrol or diesel engine, you’ll find it performs well for city driving. The added benefit is being quiet and smooth on the motorway. For those seeking more power, the 1.6-litre Sport model is a go-to option. The newer model features a 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine with mild-hybrid assistance.

The interior feels solid and durable, with a leather-covered steering wheel and cloth seats. The storage options are standard for Swift’s class.

12. Toyota Corolla Touring Sport

The Toyota Corolla Touring Sport is a reliable, well-equipped budget car, which is especially smart when you buy a used one.

You can go for a 112hp 1.2-litre petrol engine, whereas newer models feature hybrid powertrains. The first hybrid has the 1.8-litre engine with 120hp, and the other has the 2.0-litre engine with 178hp.

The Corolla Touring Sport delivers responsive handling with plenty of grip and body control. The interior comfortably accommodates three children side by side in the rear seats, with a smaller central tunnel in the middle seat.

13. Fiat Tipo

The Fiat Tipo is a great balance of low costs, practicality, and style. Despite being one of the cheapest family cars, it offers various engine options, including two 1.4-litre engines, a 1.6-litre petrol with automatic transmission, and two diesels (1.3 and 1.6). The turbocharged 1.4 petrol and the larger 1.6 diesel are better suited for highway driving.

The spacious front provides plenty of head and legroom, but the rear will be limited for taller individuals. The wide doors make it easy to install and use child seats.

14. Citroën C4

The Citroën C4 is the perfect family car that blends the versatility of a hatchback with the style of a crossover. It comes packed with features for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

The diesel 1.6-litre HDI engine achieves an amazing 85.6mpg. The petrol options are also efficient, with the latest 1.2-litre Puretech engine delivering up to 60.1 mpg. Inside, two adults or older children will find plentiful space in the back. The boot is reasonable but not bigger than some competitors.

15. Vauxhall Corsa

The outgoing Vauxhall Corsa is a great-value small hatchback that comes with plenty of standard equipment and more space than you’d expect. You get petrol and Euro 6-compliant diesel variants with 74hp and 94hp, but the 1.2 and non-turbocharged 1.4 petrol engines are more suitable for urban driving. The Corsa is easy to drive and relatively quiet compared to its rivals.

Inside, the interior has nice materials, although some trim pieces may feel brittle. The Corsa fits a small family very well, especially in the five-door version.

Final Words

So, there you have it — the best and cheapest family cars that will serve you for years to come. That’s right, don’t be mistaken; the low price doesn’t mean poor quality. These models on the list are built to last, and you just need to maintain them properly. With Carplus by your side, you should be well on your way to financing the car you’ve picked. Happy driving