Best used cars for 3 child seats: 10 Great picks everyone will like!

Searching for a car that can comfortably fit three child car seats? To meet this need, look for a vehicle with at least three ISOFIX anchors – secure points for installing child seats.

Also consider ample boot space, cabin storage for family essentials, and wide-opening doors for easy child access. And don't forget a bit of patience for classic "are we there yet?" moments!

Our list includes various family-friendly models, all united by their ability to safely accommodate three child seats using ISOFIX anchors. Let's explore the options.

But first, a reminder to use Carplus when acquiring your ideal family vehicle on finance. Enjoy pleasing terms designed to make car ownership dreams a reality. Get started today and find the perfect child-friendly ride!

1. Seat Alhambra

The Seat Alhambra is a superb choice for families with three children. It’s easy to understand why it ranks among the finest vehicles for accommodating child seats.

Inside, the Alhambra provides ample space, with a well-organised dashboard and excellent visibility from the driver's seat. There is a huge boot when the rearmost seats are folded down and still a sizeable area with all seven seats in use.

You also have the convenience of sliding rear doors. This not only makes manoeuvring in tight parking spaces simple but also streamlines access to the three child seats. This wide door opening is particularly useful for securing small children in the middle-row seats. There are three ISOFIX mounting points in the middle row, by the way.

For other occasions, the rear seats comfortably fit three adults across the second row and provide sufficient room for two adults in the third row.

2. Audi Q7

Another fantastic option for families with three children or more, the Audi Q7 provides a spacious interior and seven-seat configuration. With three child seats comfortably fitting along the middle row, it ensures your little ones can sit safely and with ample room. Surprisingly, even the third row of seats provides sufficient space.

What’s more, this family-friendly vehicle boasts a total of six ISOFIX child seat mounting points. So not only can it accommodate three child seats across three separate seats, there is actually room for up to six child seats in total.

In this versatile seven-seater, you can adjust the seating layout to suit your specific needs. Plus, when you remove the three child seats and fold down the middle row, you're left with a massive load area. So when you don’t require the child seats, a trip to the hardware store will be easy.

One thing to note - it may not be the most budget-friendly choice in terms of both purchase price and running costs. But for families needing ample and flexible space for multiple child seats, the Audi Q7 is an excellent option to consider.

3. Volkswagen Touran

The Volkswagen Touran is a spacious and practical family car, providing the superb quality you'd expect from Volkswagen. For families needing at least 3 child seats, there are five ISOFIX mounting points - two in the second row and three in the third row. For added convenience, you can even purchase optional manufacturer-approved car seats for children directly from VW.

The third row isn't the roomiest for adults. However, it works well for fitting three child seats across the back. The front passenger seat and central second row seats offer ample legroom for adults. Later Touran models have improved rear space, making long car journeys more comfortable. Additionally, the Touran has a large, practical boot with easy loading access.

Safety is also a priority, with a top Euro NCAP crash test rating, ensuring your family's protection. If you love Volkswagen's renowned quality and driving experience, like in the Golf, but need more interior room, the Touran is an excellent choice. It brings Volkswagen's strengths into a family-friendly package.

4. Citroën Berlingo

Adding to the list of the best cars for accommodating at least three child seats, the Citroën Berlingo provides a spacious and comfortable ride. While not as versatile as some rival MPVs, it can easily fit three child seats across the rear seats, especially in the middle row of the 7-seater variants thanks to individual ISOFIX points on each position. The third row works better for older kids and adults.

The Berlingo's boxy proportions allow generous luggage capacity without compromising legroom for any passenger. This added flexibility enables you to install rear-facing child seats, and the high roofline accommodates clever interior storage solutions. The practical design also incorporates two wide sliding doors for easy access.

You get an exceptionally large boot, ideal for stowing all the family essentials for days out. There are also numerous smaller storage compartments throughout the cabin to keep items handy.

For families seeking a roomy, no-frills people carrier focused on space and versatility, the Citroën Berlingo is a compelling option to consider.

5. Citroën Grand C4 Picasso

The Citroën Grand C4 Picasso has consistently been a favourite MPV for families needing three child seats. With competitive prices on the used market, it’s an appealing choice for those seeking to add style and practicality to their family journeys.

Installing three child seats across the middle row is easy and secure thanks to three ISOFIX anchor points. Larger child seats also fit without issue. The rear tray tables are handy for keeping kids entertained on trips - they can enjoy activities like colouring without creating mess in the cabin.

Beyond the three child seats, there is a sizeable boot that opens easily with a foot-activated sensor. For safety, the Grand C4 SpaceTourer offers various advanced driver assistance systems and technologies for added peace of mind.

With its blend of space, style and family-friendly features, the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso is a compelling MPV for growing families looking to accommodate three child seats comfortably. Its affordability and practicality make it a great value choice on the used market.

6. Mazda5

The Mazda5 may not immediately come to mind as a leading people carrier for three child seats. But it's worth serious consideration.

While marketed as a 5 or 7-seater depending on configuration, it realistically functions better as a 6+1. Fitting an adult in the cramped middle row is not advisable unless they are petite.

The rear side doors allow easy access to the five rear seats. However, the second and third rows can feel rather snug. You can install three child seats, though it will be a tight squeeze. With the rear seats folded, the Mazda5 transforms into a spacious and versatile vehicle, perfect for family adventures. It also upholds Mazda's reputation for robust build quality and reliability.

In summary, the Mazda5 allows you to fit three child seats while providing practicality, functionality, and excellent value. For families seeking an affordable, reliable people carrier that can accommodate child seats in a pinch, the Mazda5 makes a sensible choice.

7. Ford S-Max

The Ford S-MAX provides the flexibility, practicality, and functionality of a 7-seater with generous space. What makes it worthy of this list is the ability to securely fit three child seats across the middle row. Each of the three seats has an ISOFIX attachment point, with ample room even in the middle position.

One standout feature is how easily the second and third rows can be folded flat with the push of a button. This allows you to configure the seating and cargo in various ways to suit different needs. The hands-free tailgate is also remarkably convenient – you can open or close it with a simple foot motion under the rear bumper when your hands are full.

Beyond family-friendly practicality, the S-MAX offers a luxurious experience with leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a rear-view camera for added safety, and Sony's premium infotainment system.

For growing families seeking space for multiple child seats along with flexibility, convenience and upscale features, the Ford S-MAX hits all the right notes.

8. Škoda Kodiaq

The Škoda Kodiaq stands out as one of the best cars for fitting three child seats, especially for budget-conscious families. It marked Škoda's successful entry into the large SUV and seven-seat family car categories.

You can choose between five-seat or seven-seat configurations. Both have ISOFIX points on the outer second-row seats. So technically there are no mounts for three child seats. However, the Kodiaq can still safely accommodate extra seats in the back using the seatbelts.

The 60:40 split middle row is versatile, allowing easy adjustment. Even with the third row upright, the spacious boot offers more room than many rival SUVs.

With its flexible seating, ample cargo space and affordable pricing, the Škoda Kodiaq makes an excellent choice for growing families needing three child seats. It delivers exceptional practicality and value.

9. Renault Grand Scenic

The Renault Grand Scenic was an early compact MPV introducing a novel concept - a multi-seat estate with ample room for 3 child seats, similar in size and driving feel to a hatchback.

In the rear, the Grand Scenic can fit five adults across the seats or accommodate three child seats plus a few adults. The elevated seating position makes entering/exiting easier. It also simplifies installing three child seats using the accessible ISOFIX mounts.

The third row works best for smaller kids on shorter trips, a common trait among seven-seaters fitting three child seats, especially in the SUV category.

For families, storage is key, and the Grand Scenic delivers. It provides plenty of multiple storage compartments, including spacious door pockets and a deep central bin.

With its innovative blend of hatchback maneuverability and mini van practicality, the Renault Grand Scenic paved the way for today's compact family MPVs. For those needing 3 child seats, it remains a flexible and affordable option.

10. Peugeot 3008

The Peugeot 3008 has garnered a loyal following since its introduction as a fantastic family vehicle. Now, with numerous used models available, it is regaining popularity among families needing three-child seats.

The elevated front seats provide a commanding view ahead. In the rear, there is ample room for three child car seats, though taller adults may find more space in some rival SUVs like the Škoda Karoq.

Installing three seats is straightforward thanks to conveniently placed ISOFIX anchors and wide rear doors. However, it’s worth noting that the centre seat could be better because the console can get in the way. The firm, supportive seats ensure a comfortable ride, although on the firmer side rather than softly cushioned.

While not class-leading in cargo capacity, the 3008 still provides quite good boot space.

With its blend of style, driving dynamics, and family-friendly flexibility, the Peugeot 3008 makes an appealing used purchase for accommodating 3 child seats.

Final words: Best cars for 3 child seats

Choosing a car that needs to fit three child seats deserves careful consideration. Don't rush this decision or oversimplify it with a quick search. First, ask yourself key questions: Can all the car seats be securely installed? Is accessing the rear seats easy if needed? Can you comfortably lift the children in and out?

Once you've narrowed down the options, take a hands-on test drive approach – bring all three child seats. Install them in the vehicles you're considering, use them as you normally would, and hit the road. This practical step will give you total confidence that any of these vehicles perfectly fits your family's needs.

Let Carplus help find the ideal car designed to securely accommodate three child seats. Our services will help you discover the best vehicles and unbeatable car finance deals – better than anywhere else.