10 best used family cars which you can buy second-hand

Our favourite family cars available second-hand, from the Ford Focus to the Honda Civic

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1. Ford Focus

It’s no surprise at all that the Focus is on the podium and probably not much of a shock to see it on the top step. There are many reasons why this was the What Car? Used Car of the Year 2014. Terrific handling, economical to run, and a good range of engines as well as, in Titanium spec, all the toys you’d really want. Check out the radio as some have problems but otherwise you can add to the list very good reliability, and a five-star crash test rating by NCAP.

Best buy: 1.6 Ecoboost Titanium

2. Volkswagen Golf

Again, not much of a surprise to see the Golf on the podium. It’s really only the slightly higher costs of the Golf that stop it pipping the Focus to the top spot. This is a classy motor, that’s been well screwed together, although the styling is hardly party-animal. On the other hand, could the one you’re looking at be affected by the VW emissions scandal? Check that out, along with possibly blocked particulate filters and warning lights as well as any rattles from panels or dashboard.

Best buy: 1.4 TSI

3. Ford Mondeo

Not bad – Ford gets two cars on the podium. Mondeos are big, they handle well, they’re practical and they have a goodly amount of standard equipment, including air-con, cruise control and quick-clear windscreen. The petrol engines probably aren’t worth the effort, so stick with a diesel. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel goes well and is pretty refined too. If you’re checking the car over, pay attention to the seat bolsters as they can wear badly, as well as trim around the driver, otherwise they’re pretty bulletproof.

Best buy: 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec

4. Volkswagen Passat

This is a class piece of kit and can fight its corner against more luxurious rivals than you’ll find here. They’re enjoyable to drive, refined and stylish and there’s plenty of room for people and cargo. Most of the ones on the market are diesels so it would definitely be worth finding out if the one you’re looking at is effected by the VW emissions scandal. Otherwise they’re solid.

Best buy: 2.0 TDI SE

5. Skoda Octavia

Solid, good value and very comfortable – about the only thing Octavia is missing is a bit of mystique, but most would settle for the big, comfy Octavia. The SE and Elegance trims add in the extras you may well want, and it’s best to stick to a mid-range engine size, something like the 1.6 FSI petrol. An affordable family car with that touch of class.

Best buy: 1.6 FSI SE

6. Vauxhall Astra

Astras always represent good value for money on the used car market because of their poor resale values. The engine range offers good value for money and Astras also have decent space inside, although it’s worth checking for damage to plastics and materials in the cabin.

Best buy: 1.4T Sri

7. Skoda Superb

Skoda may not have two cars on the podium but they’ve still got two in the Top 10. Big, spacious and cheap to insure – there’s lots to like. We wouldn’t go for either end of the engine spectrum, plump for something like the 2.0-litre diesel which is very economical and refined. Equipment is generous so even base-spec S gets air-con, alloy wheels, and electric windows, while the SE adds on climate control, parking sensors and touch-screen stereo. But you should still check out whether the one you want is caught up in the VW emissions drama.

Best buy: 2.0 TDI SE

8. Honda Civic

Despite Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Civic only sneaks in at No 8. However, they are extremely reliable, with big boot, economical engines and plenty of legroom. Handling is good but not class-leading, and residuals fall surprisingly quickly, making them a good buy second-hand. The only real warning is for diesel versions since they do get through oil and there’s no warning light – check carefully.

Best buy: 1.8 i-VTEC SE

9. Kia Ceed

One of the attractions for the Ceed is the transferable seven-year warranty, so there’s every chance you’ll be buying one still under warranty. It’s a practical piece of kit, with plenty of space in the cabin and the boot. You’re never going to get excited by it, but it’s a good family hatchback.

Best buy: 1.6 CRDi 125 1 ISG 5dr

10. Mazda 6

This is a good all-round family car, a cruiser with plenty of room. They’re economical cars to run too, although refinement isn’t that high. In particular listen out for rattles from the dash and creaking from the centre console.

Best buy: 2.2D 136 TS3