Top 6 Best Cars for New Parents in 2023

Blue BMW 3 Series

Whether you’re about to become first-time parents or adding to a growing brood, welcoming a new member to the family is always an exciting time! For many parents, a brand new bundle of joy is the perfect excuse to upgrade to a new vehicle. Looking for inspiration? Read on for a closer look at the best cars for new parents.

Yes, size matters. But in this roundup, we dive deeper and take a closer look at some other important factors to consider, like safety ratings, driver assist features and fuel economy.

1.   Ford Puma

Looking for an entry-level SUV that ticks all your boxes? It’s hard to look past the Ford Puma. It’s basically a family-ready version of the best-selling Ford Fiesta, which has been a favourite with Brits for decades. The boot is huge and features a clever 80L sunken compartment where you can stash all kinds of gear. It’s called the MegaBox and is easy to wipe clean – perfect for muddy boots, wet raincoats and yes, even dirty nappies in a pinch. This clever feature makes the Ford Puma one of the best cars for new parents.

In terms of size, it’s comparable to models like the Nissan Juke. Though the price tag is far more appealing. Looking to buy second-hand? The Ford Puma was launched in 2020, which means you’ll see plenty of used models on the market. Families were definitely front-of-mind when designing the Ford Puma. Features like built-in ISOFIX points in the rear make it easy to secure child seats.

Even the standard models are packed with high-tech features like keyless start – a godsend when you’ve got your hands full with a new baby. Cruise control makes long drives to see doting grandparents a pleasure, while rear parking sensors make it easy to squeeze into parallel parking spots when all the pram bays are full.

2.   BMW 3 Series 

The BMW 3 Series is proof that family cars don’t have to be frumpy. This luxury estate model is a terrific choice for style-conscious new parents. The boot isn’t as large as some other models in our roundup, but an oversized opening makes it easy to use and access. Plus, a variety of drop-down seat configurations make it easy to add or remove extra space as needed. Planning to take long road trips with the family? The revamped infotainment system streamlines everything from punching in directions to playing your favourite playlists.

Performance and handling are where the BMW 3 Series really steps up. Responsive steering and a powerful engine will have you looking forward to early morning school runs. If you’re looking to reduce your environmental          footprint this year, the plug-in hybrid BMW 330e model is a great upgrade.

3.   Volvo XC40

Safe and stylish, the Volvo XC40 is one of the best cars for new parents. It has all the sophistication of models like the BMW 3 Series, with a family-friendly price point. The interior is classy and contemporary, with luxurious upholstery and a digital center display, even in the entry-level XC40 Core model.

No surprises here. The Volvo XC40 scored an impressive five stars in the latest safety assessment from the Euro NCAP. Upgrade to the company’s ‘IntelliSafe Assist Pro’ pack and the car will automatically steer, accelerate and brake. It’s basically an extra pair of eyes on the road – just what new parents need.

Extras and upgrades can quickly add up, so it’s worth browsing the second-hand market if you’re looking for a high-spec Volvo XC40 without blowing out your budget. Thinking about going electric? The Volvo XC40 Recharge is powered by an all-electric engine and offers almost 260 miles of range on a full charge.

4.   Volkswagen Touran

On the hunt for a bargain? A pre-owned Volkswagen Touran offers incredible value for money. These much-loved models have been on the road since 2015, which means you’ll see plenty of choice on the second-hand market. With both five and seven seat models available, there’s plenty of room for growing families. 

The Volkswagen Touran isn’t equipped with a powerful engine or all the latest tech features. But if budget is a priority, the model offers unbeatable value for money. Diesels models easily deliver around 50mpg, meaning there are also savings to be had at the forecourt. Overall, the combination of affordability and low running costs makes the Volkswagen Touran one of the best cars for new parents.

5.   Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer

Looking for the safest car for kids, according to the latest Euro NCAP crash test rating? The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer will keep your little ones safe and sound with an impressive Child Occupant safety rating of 93%. That’s basically as good as it gets when it comes to the best cars for new parents!

The five-door small MPV isn’t just big on safety. It’ll blow you away with a suite of best-in-class tech features. Not to mention the luxury and prestige Mercedes-Benz is famous for.  

6.   Hyundai i30 Tourer

Compact and economical, the Hyundai i30 Tourer is one of the best cars for new parents with a sense of adventure. This sprightly little car is just as comfortable zipping around the city as it is cruising along country roads. It’s small enough to slip into urban parking spots, yet powerful enough to tow a caravan on family road trips.

The cavernous 600-litre boot is a huge bonus for families with prams, cots and other baby items. Newer models are equipped with clever safety features, including lane-assist, front collision warning and automatic emergency braking. These types of driver-assist features can be invaluable for sleep-deprived parents.

There’s plenty to choose from on the used market, with prices ranging from around £7,500 to £22,000, depending on mileage, condition and specs.

Baby on board? Upgrade your car with My Car Credit

Ready to install your car seat and stick a ‘Baby on Board’ decal onto your rear windscreen? My Car Credit can get you into the driver’s seat of a family-friendly new car long before baby arrives. Find out more about how to check your credit score to finance a car or give us a call on 01246 458 810. Alternatively, send us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out more.

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Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

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Baby on Board: Picking the Best Car for New Parents

baby sitting in baby seat in best car for new parents

As well as being an exciting time, becoming a new parent changes almost every aspect of your life. Your choice of car is no exception. Where you may have once let horsepower and performance rule your decision, now you’re more concerned about boot size and safety. Not to worry, we’ve put together a list of the best cars for new parents – including everything from compact hatchbacks to feature-packed SUVs.

Top vehicle choices for growing families

 

Compact car: Volkswagen Golf

Price range for a used Volkswagen Golf: £17,000 to £20,000

Don’t overlook the many benefits of smaller cars like the VW Golf. These offer practicality and can easily slot into supermarket parking spaces and navigate out of school car parks with tight bends. Inside, you’ll find plenty of space and a boot with 360 litres of luggage capacity. It’s one of the most spacious hatchbacks and best family cars around. In addition, it’s renowned for its low running costs and excellent handling.

Being both reliable and affordable, the VW Golf makes a great car for new parents. If you can’t buy a vehicle outright, consider reviewing your car finance eligibility. This will help you decide how you can fund your next vehicle when juggling the expense of a new baby.

Compact car: Ford Focus

Price range for a used Ford Focus: £9,000 to £12,000

Up and down the country, the Ford Focus is a well-loved vehicle for families and individuals alike. The latest models replace the once-cramped rear seats with a roomy passenger compartment in which three adults can comfortably sit. The boot is also bigger and more practical than before, with 341 litres of space.

The newer models come equipped with a Ford SYNC3 infotainment system. This features an eight-inch touchscreen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for sat-nav. With a Focus, you can expect all the safety tech that should be in a modern family hatchback. On top of this, you’ll enjoy smooth handling and great efficiency to boot.

Mid-Sized Estate Car: Skoda Superb

Price range for a used Skoda Superb: £7,000 to £34,000

If you want a bit of style with lots of space at an affordable price, then you don’t need to look much further than the Skoda Superb. It has an immense 625-litre boot space and 1,760 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Big on space and comfort, the Superb is very attractive for new parents who are often lugging around buggies, equipment and bags. But the space doesn’t stop there – it even has a place for umbrellas in the door. You’ll find this ideal when you’re loading and unloading the kids and it’s pouring with rain.

It’s quiet, low to the ground and is an overall delightful drive that is smooth and efficient. The newer models come with an electronic stability control system, seven airbags and a post-collision braking system. The five-star Euro NCAP safety rating means it ranks highly as a top family car. What makes it even better is the 60-litre tank that keeps you going for miles before stopping to refuel – an ideal feature with little passengers in tow!

Compact SUV: Skoda Karoq

Price range for a used Skoda Karoq: £12,000 to £26,000

It’s no surprise that Skoda is mentioned again; the brand is known for producing impressive family cars that are as practical as they are safe. The Czech firm continues to branch out into SUVs, and the Karoq is an impressive introduction. It has a bit more style compared to its Superb sibling with its sleek lines and height.

Skoda’s new Karoq is stylish, practical and incredibly safe with five stars in Euro NCAP tests. To sweeten the deal, it is surprisingly affordable. The boot offers a generous 521 litres, making it perfect for a new family with all the gear.

The wide-opening rear doors mean that you can slot the children’s car seats into place without any issue. The height of the SUV makes strapping children into their seats easy on your back. There are a number of handy rear seat features that make daily life easier. You’ll find a large box for gadgets and snacks between the front seats. There are also foldable tables for small children to use in the back. The rear-view camera and wide dashboard display help you navigate around busy school car parks and neighbourhoods with a clear view.

This vehicle won the ‘Best family SUV for £18,000-£30,000’ in the What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2019. You’ll enjoy travelling from the supermarket to the school to football pitches in style. Whether you choose petrol or diesel, running costs on this vehicle are surprisingly low.

Compact SUV: Vauxhall Crossland X

Price range for a used Vauxhall Crossland X: £8,000 to £23,000

The Vauxhall Crossland X has been designed to maximise space – and space it does offer. There is not only excellent headroom in the back that makes installing a child seat a snap, but the boot can hold 410 litres. This increases to 520 litres when you opt for sliding rear seats. With that said, there is more than enough room for a pram or pushchair.

This fantastic option is rated five stars in crash tests and 84 percent child occupant protection. You’ll feel confident that you are getting behind the wheel of a safe vehicle.

SUV: Audi Q3

Price range for a used Audi Q3: £19,000 to £52,000

Looking for a vehicle with plenty of boot space? One that will accommodate pushchairs, nappy bags, kids’ scooters and other must-have new parent items? How about a touch of luxury, too? The new Audi Q3 appeals to everyone, especially families, thanks to its fine balance of practicality and reliable SUV style.

It comes well-equipped with family-friendly features. Ranging from a first aid kid, split-folding rear seats, electronically operated child locks on rear doors through to seatbelt warning lights. Essentially, it has all the tech that new parents dream of.

This nifty SUV is powerful for open roads for road-tripping adventures. What’s more, the handling is delicate enough to navigate tight school car parks. The school run is a breeze with high safety ratings and intelligent airbag systems. You’ll experience all-round protection when you need it most.

Cruise the open road in your first vehicle

Ready to get behind the wheel of your first vehicle? At My Car Credit, we want to make securing car finance simple and accessible when you’re purchasing your first vehicle.

To find out how we can get you on the road, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
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  • You may have had frequent changes in address
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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!