All the new versions above SE grade get an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the VW Virtual Cockpit digital dash is a worthwhile option too.
7. Mazda 6 (Mk3)
The Mazda 6 won the Auto Express Best Family Car category in 2014, and while it’s been around for a few years a facelift in 2018 has kept the model relevant. In fact it’s still one of the best in its class in 2020, which shows how good it was back in 2014.
One of the key characteristics that has survived undimmed is the Mazda’s fun-to-drive factor. It’s one of the few family cars that’s positively fun to drive, combining sporty handling with efficient and punchy powertrains.
Most people reckon the Mazda 6 is a looker too, with its sleek and sporty lines offering a refreshing alternative to the often conservative style of rivals. Fortunately the svelte lines don’t translate to a cramped interior, and the Mazda 6 offers plenty of space inside for five adults, as well as their luggage.
On the road, the Mazda 6 is supple and refined, with only the more tautly sprung Sport Nav version feeling a bit firm for some tastes. The cabin is a great place to be too, with a top quality feel and high spec including a tablet-style 7-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The SE L spec is one of the best value new versions, and they look a great used bet too with climate control, parking sensors and power mirrors amongst the goodies.
8. Citroen Grand C4 Picasso/Space Tourer (Mk2)
Formerly known as the Grand C4 Picasso but called the Grand C4 Space Tourer since 2018, this MPV is a real used-car-catch.
Families looking for practical interior space will be bowled over by the cabin of this French people carrier, and especially the folding seat arrangement which is one of the easiest around to use. It’s exceptionally roomy inside too, and has a light and airy feel wherever you sit – including the third row of seats which separates this Grand version from the regular C4 Space Tourer.
The Citroen is also quite a stylish machine, which is something of a rarity in its class, while the interior is even more eye-catching than the exterior, especially in versions with the big 12-inch display screen fixed in the middle of the dashboard. Spec levels are pretty comprehensive too, with top of the range versions adding luxuries like electrically-adjusted massaging seats.
The engine line-up consists of efficient diesel and petrol engines, the latter including a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo option that fits the bill surprisingly well thanks to 129bhp. A chassis that’s built for comfort completes the winning hand.
Now find out more about the best used cars you can buy…
