The best family cars in Australia - 2023: know price, specs & features

From spaciousness and comfort to safety features and versatility, family-sized cars offer a range of benefits that cater specifically to the demands of family life. Whether you're shuttling kids to school, embarking on a family vacation, or simply enjoying quality time on the road, these vehicles provide the perfect balance of practicality and reliability.

So, if you're ready to find the ideal vehicle that meets the unique requirements of your family, let's dive in and explore the world of family-sized cars together. We have compiled a list of best cars for family for you so get ready to embark on a journey of comfort, convenience, and unforgettable adventures with your loved ones.

1. Skoda Octavia

Being part of the Volkswagen Group, Skoda benefits from the utilisation of major mechanical components shared with vehicles like the Golf. With the extended body of the Octavia, it presents a practical size for individuals or couples with one or two children.

The Octavia stands out as an enjoyable family car on the road, offering the choice between a wagon and an unusually-styled hatch that resembles a sedan. Equipped with efficient yet robust four-cylinder turbo engines, it strikes a balance between fuel economy and performance. The twin-clutch transmissions, although occasionally requiring finesse in city driving, contribute to Octavia's fun-driving nature.

Moreover, the Octavia incorporates cleverly designed storage cubbyholes and surprises with thoughtful features such as umbrellas in the doors. These details further solidify the Octavia as a sensible and enjoyable everyday choice for families.

Key Specifications of Skoda Octavia:

Data for 2022 SKODA Octavia 110TSI Style Auto MY23.5

Key Features of Skoda Octavia:

• Practicality
• Adaptive suspension
• Quality craftsmanship
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Spacious
  

What’s good about it?

• Practical
• Fuel-efficient
• Good value for money
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Somewhat outdated infotainment system
• Not as many cargo cubbies as some rivals
• Rear visibility is poor
  
  

2. Toyota RAV4

In numerous Australian households, midsize SUVs have taken the place of traditional large sedans, and the RAV4 played a key role in driving this transformation. Since its introduction in 1994, the RAV4 has transitioned from being a fun and funky vehicle for singles and couples to prioritising everyday practicality for families. The latest iteration of the RAV4 reflects this family-oriented approach in a sensible manner.

Notably, the RAV4 distinguishes itself with exceptional driving dynamics compared to its midsize SUV counterparts, further solidifying its position as a highly compelling choice on the road. The availability of a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain allows for a substantial reduction in fuel consumption, approximately halving the fuel usage. With the RAV4, Toyota has not only adapted to the changing needs of Australian families but has also set a benchmark for sustainable and family-friendly motoring in the modern era. Undoubtedly, the RAV4 is among the top three cars sold in Australia in 2022!

Key Specifications of Toyota RAV4:

Data for 2023 Toyota RAV4 GX Auto 2WD

Key Features of Toyota RAV4:

• Hybrid and electric options
• Toyota reliability and resale value
• Comfortable and spacious interior
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• All-wheel drive capability
  

What’s good about it?

• Reliability
• All-wheel drive capability
• Fuel efficiency
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Somewhat outdated infotainment system
• Not as engaging to drive
• Not as many cargo cubbies as some rivals
  
  

3. Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Camry Hybrid employed reliable yet basic hybrid technology, relying on older nickel-metal hydride batteries in a world that has predominantly shifted to lithium-ion. Nevertheless, it delivered on its promise of fuel efficiency, with fuel consumption approximately half that of similarly-sized large sedans. Additionally, the Camry Hybrid offered respectable performance, thanks to the assistance of an electric motor paired with a reliable four-cylinder engine.

With a spacious rear seat and all the practicality associated with a mid-sized Toyota, the Camry Hybrid provides an excellent means of transporting the family in comfort.

While the Prius may have popularised the concept of hybrids, it was the Camry Hybrid that truly propelled them to the top of the sales charts. A significant number of Camry Hybrids were utilised as government and fleet vehicles, which means there is now a substantial presence of these cars in the used-car market.

Key Specifications of Toyota Camry Hybrid:

Data for 2020 Toyota Camry Ascent Auto

Key Features of Toyota Camry Hybrid:

• Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0
• Fuel Efficiency
• Eco-Friendly Design
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Regenerative Braking
  

What’s good about it?

• Excellent fuel economy
• Reliable and long-lasting
• Affordable price
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Grabby ‘over-sensitive’ brakes
• Not as powerful as some rivals
• Not as engaging to drive as some rivals
  

4. Kia Carnival

While SUVs have become the trendy choice for school pickups when it comes to transporting a large number of people in utmost comfort, it's often the people movers like the Kia Carnival that excel.

With three rows of seats, the Carnival comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, while still leaving ample space for luggage. It's a rarity to find a vehicle that effortlessly handles both the transportation of many occupants, regardless of their size, and their belongings. The presence of sliding rear doors, some of which are powered, adds convenience, and every seat in the Carnival can comfortably fit a full-sized adult, eliminating any arguments over seating arrangements and replacing them with anticipation of the journey ahead.

Factor in the impressive seven-year warranty, along with a generous array of standard equipment, and the Kia Carnival emerges as a highly compelling choice for families seeking a reliable and feature-packed vehicle.

Key Specifications of Kia Carnival:

Data for 2022 Kia Carnival S Auto MY23

Key Features of Kia Carnival:

• Luxurious Comfort
• Dual Power Sliding Doors and Power Liftgate
• Driver Assistance Features
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Extended Warranty
  

What’s good about it?

• Advanced safety features
• Powerful engine
• Affordable price
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Fuel economy
• Difficult to manoeuvre
• Somewhat outdated infotainment system
  
  

5. Subaru Outback

While many modern SUVs provide car-like driving dynamics, the Outback brings itself even closer to the feel of a car, making it incredibly easy to live with. Furthermore, it offers more spaciousness than the average midsize SUV, boasting a lengthy boot and rear seats that comfortably accommodate adults (much to the delight of teenagers).

In addition to its family-friendly attributes, the Outback exhibits cleverly engineered off-road capabilities, allowing it to conquer trails that many other vehicles would shy away from. The presence of roof rails that rotate 90 degrees to create roof racks exemplifies the ingenuity embedded in a Subaru known for its enduring staying power, while providing ample space for storage.

Overall, the Subaru Outback presents an enticing proposition as a family-oriented vehicle, seamlessly blending the practicality of a wagon with SUV-like qualities, and showcasing Subaru's commitment to innovation and versatility.

Key Specifications of Subaru Outback:

Data for 2022 Subaru Outback AWD 6GEN Auto AWD MY23

Key Features of Subaru Outback:

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Off-Road Capability
• Boxer Engine and CVT Transmission
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Roof Rack and Trailer Stability Assist
  

What’s good about it?

• Reliability
• Standard EyeSight safety features
• Symmetrical all-wheel drive
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• EyeSight safety features can feel intrusive
• Not as engaging to drive as some rivals
• Not as fuel-efficient as some rivals
  

6. Volkswagen Passat

Volkswagen's mid-sized offering refuses to settle for mediocrity. The surprisingly spacious sedan and even more expansive wagon exude a distinctly Teutonic flavour, embracing the notion that elegant simplicity often triumphs over excessive attempts at sophistication.

Inside the cabin, Volkswagen employs quality materials and a minimalist yet ergonomically sound layout, seamlessly integrating from the central infotainment screen to the supremely comfortable seats. Notably, the rear seats cater to the needs of children, adding significant value to this generously proportioned family car.

The Passat also exudes a level of dynamic confidence that few can match. This can be attributed to its German engineering, which treats high-speed autobahns with the same importance as narrow city backstreets, resulting in a harmonious balance of performance and control.

Key Specifications of Volkswagen Passat:

Data for 2021 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI B8 Auto 4MOTION MY22.5

Key Features of Volkswagen Passat:

• Spacious and Comfortable Interior
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Quality Materials and Craftsmanship
• Apple CarPlay and  Android Auto
• Volkswagen Reliability and Longevity
  

What’s good about it?

• Comfortable ride
• Premium Infotainment
• Reliable
  

What's not-so-good about it?

• Interior design is a bit dated
• Not as exciting to drive as some rivals
• Pricey
  

7. Mazda 6

The Mazda 6 stands as a prominent contender in the diminishing midsize sedan/wagon segment, offering a blend of style and excitement. With its distinct personality, the Mazda 6 injects flair and pizazz into the family sedan and wagon categories. The sedan provides slightly more rear seat space, while the wagon compensates with a versatile and adaptable cargo area.

Mazda 6 impresses with its strong reliability track record and a refreshingly upscale interior. It expertly straddles the line between the upper echelon of mainstream cars and the emerging realm of compact luxury vehicles, occupying a unique position in the market. It also offers a decent 506 L boot space, enough for your next family outing.

Key Specifications of Mazda 6:

Data for 2022 Mazda 6 Sport GL Series Auto

Key Features of Mazda 6:

• KODO Design
• Skyactiv Technology
• Luxurious Interior
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• i-Activsense Safety Technology
  

What’s good about it?

• Sporty handling
• Fuel-efficient
• Stylish design
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Rear visibility is poor
• Not as spacious as some rivals
• Pricey
  

8. Hyundai i40

The Hyundai i40, originally intended for the European market but also making its way to Australia, was offered as both a sedan and a wagon. The wagon variant stood out with its distinctive design elements, setting it apart from the slightly larger i45 (now known as the Sonata).

Thanks to its European influence, the i40 wagon had a more compact size compared to some bulkier wagons, which had its pros and cons. While it may not be ideal for larger families, it provided a "just right" size for smaller families with one or two children. This car is ideal if you want to stick to a lower budget while ensuring a comfortable ride for the family and decent boot space for luggage.

Key Specifications of Hyundai i40:

Data for 2016 Hyundai i40 Active Auto

Key Features of Hyundai i40:

• Stylish Design
• Spacious Interior
• Advanced Safety Features
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Well-Balanced Ride and Handling
  

What’s good about it?

• Comfortable ride
• Spacious interior
• Reliable
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Interior design is a bit dated
• Not as exciting to drive as some rivals
• Pricey
  

9. Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey defies conventional people mover norms by blending wagon-like versatility with the intelligent layout of a three-row haulier. In its latest generation, the Odyssey leans more towards the traditional people mover design, evident in its sliding rear doors that effectively shield neighbouring cars from any unintentional bumps caused by little ones.

While the 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine may be the least impressive aspect of the Odyssey, particularly when fully utilizing all eight seats (or seven, depending on the model), the interior surprises with its spaciousness and high-quality finishes, providing an exceptional means of transporting a large number of people. Even more unexpectedly, the Odyssey exhibits a touch of sportiness when tackling corners, adding an enjoyable element to its driving dynamics.

Key Specifications of Honda Odyssey:

Data for 2018 Honda Odyssey VTi Auto MY18

Key Features of Honda Odyssey:

• Spacious Interior
• CabinWatch and CabinTalk
• Honda Sensing Safety Suite
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Honda Reliability and Longevity
  

What’s good about it?

• Sophisticated interior
• Reliable
• Equipped with advanced safety features

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Pricey
• Not as fuel-efficient as some rivals
• Can be difficult to park
  

10. Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail demonstrates its family-oriented design with features like the cooled cup holders, which provide a refreshing respite on scorching Australian summer days by channelling air-conditioning through the front cupholders. However, the X-Trail's family appeal goes beyond this, as it boasts a larger body compared to most competitors, resulting in a highly practical vehicle for families. Opting for the two-wheel drive option allows for a seven-seater configuration, though the third row of seats may not be ideal for taller teenagers. Nevertheless, the X-Trail offers generous space and delivers a promise of trouble-free motoring for years to come.

Similarly, the X-Trail prioritizes fundamental handling capabilities over driving enjoyment when taking on bends. While it may not offer thrilling dynamics, its focus on the essentials ensures a safe and stable driving experience for families.

Key Specifications of Nissan X-Trail:

Data for 2022 Nissan X-TRAIL ST-L T33 Auto 2WD MY23

Key Features of Nissan X-Trail:

• Nissan Reliability and Durability
• Fuel Efficiency
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Nissan ProPILOT Assist
  

What’s good about it?

• Good off-road capability
• Fuel-efficient
• Comfortable interior
  

What’s not-so-good about it?

• Rough ride
• Not as luxurious as some rivals
• Limited cargo space
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a family-sized car offers an array of compelling reasons to meet the needs of your family. With its spacious and versatile design, a family-sized car ensures that there is enough room for everyone, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable journey, whether it's a short trip to the grocery store or a long-distance road trip. The abundance of cargo space ensures that you can easily accommodate strollers, sports equipment, luggage, and other essentials without compromising the comfort of the passengers.

Moreover, family-sized cars prioritize the safety of your loved ones. Equipped with advanced safety features, such as multiple airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and electronic stability control, these cars provide a secure and protected environment for every occupant. Additional safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and collision avoidance systems further enhance the overall safety of the vehicle, helping to prevent accidents and ensuring peace of mind for parents and caregivers.

FAQs

1. What are the best family cars in Australia for 2023?

Best Family Cars in Australia for 2023: The best family cars can vary based on factors such as budget, size, features, and personal preferences. It's a good idea to look at popular options like the Honda Odyssey, Hyundai i40 and Skoda Octavia.

2. Which car model is best for a family?

Best Car Model for a Family: The best car model for a family depends on various factors, including the size of your family, your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. SUVs are often preferred by families due to their spaciousness, versatility, and higher seating position.

3. What is the safest family car in Australia?

Safest Family Car in Australia: Safety is crucial for a family car. In Australia, safety ratings are provided by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). They evaluate and rate the safety features and crash performance of vehicles. Checking ANCAP ratings and considering vehicles with a 5-star rating can help you identify the safest options. Such as the Nissan X-Trail, Mazda6 and Subaru Outback

4. Which is better for a family, a sedan or SUV?

Sedan or SUV for a Family: The choice between a sedan and an SUV depends on your specific needs and preferences. SUVs typically offer more space, higher ground clearance, and a versatile cargo area, which can be beneficial for larger families and those with outdoor activities. Sedans, on the other hand, often provide better fuel efficiency, a lower centre of gravity for better handling, and a sleeker design.

5. Which budget car is best for a family?

Budget Car for a Family: Several budget-friendly car options can be suitable for families. Models like the Hyundai i40, Mazda6, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Passat often offer a good balance of affordability, reliability, safety, and practicality.