Buying a used family car is an important decision. You want a car that is safe, reliable, practical, and affordable. When looking for a used family car, safety should be one of your top priorities. Here is a guide to some of the safest used family cars available in the UK.
Small Hatchbacks
Small hatchbacks are popular family cars thanks to their compact size, fuel efficiency, and easy handling. Here are some of the safest used small hatchbacks for families:
- Toyota Yaris – The Yaris has a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Look for models with six
airbags and stability control. Reliability is excellent. - VW Polo – VW’s supermini has a 5-star rating and advanced safety tech like auto emergency
braking on higher trim levels. Roomy interior. - Ford Fiesta – The UK’s bestselling car, the Fiesta is fun to drive with 4-5 star safety. Look for
models after 2017 which have more standard safety kit. - Hyundai i20 – Hyundai’s i20 offers a roomy cabin and lots of standard safety features like
seven airbags. 2016-onwards models get 5 star Euro NCAP.
Family Hatchbacks
Moving up a size, family hatchbacks offer more space and versatility. Here are some safe used options:
- Skoda Octavia – A hugely practical family car, the Octavia gets 5 star ratings. Look for post-
2015 models with auto emergency braking. Reliable and good value. - Toyota Corolla – Renowned Toyota build quality and up to 5 star safety make the Corolla a
smart used buy. Good hatchback practicality. - Ford Focus – One of Britain’s top selling cars, the Ford Focus is enjoyable to drive and safe.
Models from 2018 onwards get the latest safety tech like auto braking. - Vauxhall Astra – Common on British roads, the Astra scores 4-5 star ratings. High spec
models get forward collision warning and lane keep assist.
Family SUVs/Crossovers
For more space, SUVs and crossovers are ideal for families. The best used options include:
- Mazda CX-5 – Mazda’s mid-size SUV impresses with 5 star safety and agile handling.
Excellent mileage and equipment levels on used examples. - Toyota RAV4 – Toyota reliability combines with 5 star ratings and generous cabin space in
the RAV4. All-wheel-drive models have superb all-weather grip. - Nissan Qashqai – The Qashqai offers style, comfort, and 4-5 star safety. Look for post-2017
models with auto emergency braking. - Kia Sportage – The UK’s top selling SUV, the Kia’s Sportage mixes value, practicality and
advanced safety tech like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Roomy 5 seater cabin.
Key Safety Features to Look For
When buying a used family car, look for newer models with the latest active safety systems like auto emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. These features are often standard on higher trim levels. Also prioritise side and curtain airbags, stability/traction control and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Reliable brands which score highly in safety tests will give you peace of mind. For buyers in Chelmsford, Colchester, and Brentwood, dealerships that sell used cars in Essex can advise you on your options if you’re still unsure.
Buying used allows you to get a safer family car for less cost. Follow this guide and do your research to find a model that perfectly balances reliability, affordability, practicality and safety for your family’s needs. Prioritising safety will give you greater peace of mind when your precious cargo is on board.
