Thinking of making the switch to an electric car for your next family wagon? You’re not alone. More and more families are plugging in, drawn by the promise of lower running costs and a quieter, smoother ride. But with this new technology comes a whole new set of questions. Is the range long enough for a trip to the grandparents? Will the boot fit a pushchair, the weekly shop, and a mountain of school bags? And what on earth is a kWh?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The world of electric family cars is bigger and better than ever, stretching far beyond just pure battery-powered models. From supermini-based crossovers to spacious seven-seat SUVs and ultra-long-range estates, there’s an electrified option to suit almost any family’s needs and budget. This guide is here to cut through the jargon and help you find the perfect fit. (Oh, and kWh stands for kilowatt-hour, which is a unit measuring electrical energy.)
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
The Best Electric Cars for Families 2025
- 2025 Kia EV4
- 2025 Renault 4
- 2025 Tesla Model 3
- 2025 Tesla Model Y
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQB
- 2025 Volkswagen ID.7
- 2025 BMW iX1
- 2025 Renault Scenic E-Tech
- 2025 Skoda Elroq
- 2025 Kia EV3
1. 2025 Kia EV4
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: NA Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very spacious | Not cheap to buy |
| Smart, airy interior | No standard heat pump |
| Roomy rear seats and boot | Unremarkable charging speeds |
The Kia EV4 proves you don’t need an SUV for family-friendly practicality. The hatchback version offers a generous 431-litre boot, which is more than you’ll find in most rivals and even some petrol-powered alternatives. That space doesn’t come at the expense of room for passengers, either; there’s loads of legroom in the back, and the big, wide-opening rear doors make it a doddle to fit a child seat. Up front, the interior feels brilliantly screwed together and is packed with clever storage cubbies for all the family’s odds and ends.
When it comes to hitting the road, the EV4 is a relaxing companion. All versions come with a 201bhp motor, but it’s the larger 81.4kWh battery (standard on GT Line and GT Line S trims) that will appeal most to families, offering a whopping 388-mile official range. That should translate to around 270-310 miles in the real world, more than enough for a day out with the kids. The ride is impressively comfortable, smothering bumps and making long motorway journeys feel effortless, which is exactly what you want from a family car.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The EV4 may not be an exemplary car, but it is still a very, very good one; generously equipped, roomy, a delight to drive, and a joy to be in." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
2. 2025 Renault 4
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: NA Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | Rear seat space could be better |
| Characterful interior | Heated seats reserved for the most expensive model |
| Smart retro styling | Wind noise at higher speeds |
Following the 5, Renault revived another icon, and this time it's the 4. Reimagined as a compact electric crossover, it takes on a bustling market that includes the Fiat 600e, Jeep Avenger, and even the Kia EV3. Don't let its retro-chic looks fool you; this is a proper family EV. With a 52kWh battery, it offers a very usable WLTP range of up to 247 miles, while the 148bhp electric motor provides enough poke for school runs and motorway trips alike. It's a charming package that blends heritage with modern, zero-emission family motoring.
Practicality is a strong point, with a 420-litre boot that's more generous than what you'll find in many key rivals, and it includes a handy underfloor space for stashing charging cables. Inside, the cabin is full of character and thoughtful touches. While taller adults might find rear legroom a bit snug, there's decent space for the kids, who will also appreciate the USB-C ports. Up front, the excellent 10.1-inch Google-powered infotainment system makes navigation a breeze, and the whole interior feels both fun and well-suited to the rigours of family life.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault 4 is a brilliant small family car, complete with a very useful boot, a lovely interior, great equipment, and far more ‘want one’ factor than most rivals. It’s also great to drive, has a good enough range, and is priced about right for its class." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Renault 4 review
3. 2025 Tesla Model 3
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable to buy for a premium electric car | A little cramped in the back and boot |
| Brilliant Tesla Supercharger network | No head-up display |
| Even better to drive since 2024 update | Latest version lacks physical stalks for major driving controls |
The Tesla Model 3 might be a sleek saloon rather than a chunky SUV, but it still has a lot to offer families. Its biggest selling point is efficiency. The Long Range model can officially travel up to 466 miles on a single charge, which is more than almost any rival. And when you do need to top up, access to Tesla’s fast and reliable Supercharger network makes long journeys a breeze. A big update in 2024 also made the Model 3 much more comfortable and quieter, turning it into a fantastic long-distance cruiser.
There are compromises, of course. Rear-seat space is tighter than in an equivalent SUV, and the saloon-style boot opening makes it less practical for loading bulky items like pushchairs. The minimalist interior, where almost everything is controlled via the huge central touchscreen, will also divide opinion. But if you prioritise range, technology and charging convenience over maximum space, the Model 3 is a brilliantly capable and cost-effective family EV.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Model 3 is a remarkable car that’s efficient, sets the standard for semi-autonomous driving aids, and is more affordable than almost all of its close rivals. Whether you’re buying new or used, it promises to be a great experience." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Tesla Model 3 review
4. 2025 Tesla Model Y
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent range and rapid charging | Would really benefit from a head-up display |
| Lots of standard kit | Firm ride |
| Roomy and practical | Interior quality not at BMW or Mercedes levels |
When it comes to sheer space, the Tesla Model Y is a champion of family EVs. The boot is simply vast (854 litres to the roofline), and when you add in the huge storage area under the bonnet, you have a car that can swallow an astonishing amount of luggage. Passenger space is just as impressive, with loads of room for the whole family to get comfortable. As of 2025, kids in the back even get their own 8-inch touchscreen to keep them entertained on long journeys – whether or not this is a good thing might vary from family to family, mind.
A big update in 2025 also made the Model Y much more comfortable, smoothing out the firm ride of earlier models. It’s now a wonderfully quiet and relaxing car to travel in, with over 300 miles range whichever of the two battery sizes you choose, and access to Tesla’s brilliant Supercharger network, which makes public charging simpler than with any other brand. It might not have the plushest interior, but for outright practicality and ease of use on a long trip, the Model Y is hard to beat.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Tesla Model Y is a brilliant electric family car; spacious, confident to drive and stuffed with technology. A heavy update in 2025 has also resulted in better ride comfort and superior cabin finish, which are welcome improvements." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Tesla Model Y review
5. 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQB
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 40.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High quality interior | Other SUVs are more fun to drive |
| Seven seats in an electric vehicle | Third-row seats are cramped |
| Quiet and comfortable | More expensive than petrol or diesel models |
Need seven seats in your electric car? The Mercedes-Benz EQB could be for you. It’s one of the only premium electric SUVs to offer a third row of seats, giving you the flexibility to carry extra kids to football practice or for a day out. While those rearmost seats are best for children, the middle row slides to create more legroom, and with all seven seats in use, there’s still enough boot space for a few shopping bags.
Fold the third row away and you have a practical five-seater with a decent boot. But the EQB’s appeal goes beyond just its seat count. The interior is a real highlight, with a classy design, high-quality materials and a fantastic twin-screen display that feels a cut above most rivals. It’s smooth and quiet on the move, and the standard all-wheel drive provides extra security in slippery conditions. A single 70.5kWh battery is offered, with an official range of up to 324 miles in the 188bhp version. Select the more powerful 225bhp model and this drops to 271 miles; hardly class-leading, but for a premium seven-seater, the EQB is well worth a look.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mercedes EQB is not for you if you want a sports electric SUV – there are plenty of others that are more fun to drive. But, the EQB is confident and smooth, and it offers a fantastically compelling blend of practicality, a premium finish and low running costs." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Mercedes-Benz EQB review
6. 2025 Volkswagen ID.7
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 41.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.8 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers lots of space for the money | The BMW i4 is more exciting to drive |
| Extremely quiet and refined to drive | Heat pump is a cost option |
| Improved infotainment system compared with other ID models | Some touchscreen controls are still fiddly to use |
If space and range are your top priorities, say hello to the Volkswagen ID.7. Available as a sleek hatchback or a cavernous ‘Tourer’ estate, the ID.7 offers an incredible amount of interior space for the money. Rear passengers are treated to limo-like legroom, while the boot is simply massive – the estate version boasts a colossal 605-litre capacity. This is a car that will swallow your family and all their luggage without breaking a sweat.
It’s not just big; it’s also built for distance. The larger battery option has a claimed range of up to 433 miles, making it one of the longest-legged EVs you can buy and perfect for epic family road trips. The cabin is a big step up in quality from other VW electric cars, and while some of the touchscreen controls are still a bit fiddly, it’s a supremely comfortable and refined place to be. For families that need maximum space and minimum charging stops, the ID.7 is a solid choice.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The VW ID.7 is a real sophisticate, from the way it looks to the way it feels on the road and the tech it delivers. It’s well equipped, competitively priced and feels every inch the consummate long-distance executive." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen ID.7 review
7. 2025 BMW iX1
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very classy interior and infotainment system | Not as versatile as some rivals |
| Good to drive | An expensive option in the class |
| Efficiency is pretty good | Dimensions aren't as compact as they once were |
If you want a premium badge on your electric family car, the BMW iX1 is a brilliant choice. It feels every inch a proper BMW, with a sophisticated driving experience and a seriously classy interior. The cabin takes inspiration from the flagship iX, with high-quality materials and a stunning curved infotainment screen that makes many rivals look dated. It’s also a practical space, with a good-sized boot, handy underfloor storage for cables, and enough room in the back for a couple of adults or child seats.
The iX1 is wonderfully smooth and quiet to drive, and if you get it with adaptive suspension it has a calm and comfortable ride that’s perfect for settling the kids on a long journey. The entry-level eDrive20 model offers a very useful official range of up to 293 miles, which is more than enough for most family’s needs. For those wanting more punch, the 308bhp all-wheel-drive xDrive30 is seriously quick. It’s a sophisticated and highly capable all-rounder.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The BMW iX1 is a seriously comprehensive premium SUV that offers the best infotainment and cabin finish in the class. It’s also a sophisticated car to drive, yet still practical for the family, so it has the essentials wrapped up." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
8. 2025 Renault Scenic E-Tech
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Roomy for passengers | Boot is an awkward shape |
| Good infotainment system with Google maps | Not as practical as a Skoda Enyaq |
| Useful range of more than 300 miles | Rear seats don't slide |
Renault has brought back the famous Scenic name for this super-practical electric family car. Passenger space is simply brilliant, with a flat floor and vast amounts of legroom that mean even tall adults can stretch out in the back. The kids will love the clever rear armrest, which has swivelling stands for phones and tablets. However, while the 545-litre boot looks huge on paper, its depth and high lip can make lifting heavy items like a pushchair a bit of a workout. It’s a potential deal-breaker, so we’d recommend checking if it works for you.
For long family holidays, the Scenic E-Tech is a star. Its big 87kWh battery can deliver an official range of up to 381 miles, which is more than enough to banish range anxiety. On the move, it’s quiet, comfortable and relaxing, while the Google-powered infotainment system is a joy to use, making navigation a doddle. A standard-fit heat pump also helps preserve that precious range in winter, making the Scenic a very thoughtful and capable choice for family life.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Scenic E-Tech is a seriously smart, capable and comfortable family EV, that matches great passenger space with lots of tech and one of the longest driving ranges available at this price. It’s also well priced, especially considering the exceptional levels of standard equipment." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Renault Scenic E-Tech review
9. 2025 Skoda Elroq
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Loads of room in the back seats | Can be a bit stiff over bumps |
| Smooth and stable on the motorway | No heat pump as standard |
| Lots of storage space | Boot not as big as in some rivals |
If you want a family car that just gets on with the job with no fuss, the Skoda Elroq should be high on your list. True to form, Skoda has prioritised practicality above all else. The cabin is packed with ‘Simply Clever’ touches, like hidden storage compartments and plenty of cubbies for family clutter. There’s even an ice scraper in the tailgate and an umbrella stashed in the door! Passenger space is fantastic, with generous head and legroom in the back, while the large windows make it feel bright and airy. The boot isn’t the biggest in the class, but its square shape and clever false floor make it a very usable space for everyday life.
Most families will find the Elroq 60 model is all the car they need, with a real-world range of around 200 miles and enough punch for easy motorway cruising. It’s a smooth and stable car on the move, and its tidy handling means it doesn’t lean much in corners – a real bonus for kids who are prone to car sickness. While the ride can feel a bit firm around town, it settles down nicely at speed, making the Elroq a serene and hassle-free way to transport your family.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There are more extrovert family SUVs out there, but the Skoda Elroq’s great strength is the hassle-free way in which it gets the job of providing practical family transport done." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Skoda Elroq review
10. 2025 Kia EV3
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extrovert styling | Unsettled ride |
| Loads of space for a car of its size | Too many touch-sensitive controls inside |
| Long range | Some cheap-feeling interior plastics |
Don’t let its compact size fool you; the Kia EV3 is a bit of a Tardis inside. Its standout styling hides a surprisingly spacious and airy cabin that’s perfect for family life. There’s loads of room in the back for lanky teenagers, and the wide-opening doors mean you won’t throw your back out trying to fit a child seat. The boot is a very decent 460 litres, and Kia has even included a 25-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet, which is the perfect spot to stash messy charging cables away from your luggage.
You get a choice of two batteries (58.5kWh and 81.4kWh), which makes it easy to pick the right EV3 for your family. The standard version should manage a real-world 200 miles, which is plenty for school runs and weekend activities. If you regularly tackle longer journeys, the Long Range model promises an impressive 375 miles on a full charge. Performance is brisk and smooth, making light work of city traffic and motorway slip roads. While the ride can get a little fidgety on bumpy roads, it’s a small price to pay for a car that packs so much practicality and personality into a stylish package.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Kia EV3 is a solid, desirable and distinctive electric SUV with a lot of practicality. It might not be quite as versatile as some of its rivals, but it packs in a lot of space and equipment." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
FAQs: Your Electric Family Car Questions Answered
1. What's the difference between a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, and an electric car?
An electric car (EV) runs purely on electricity from a battery. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV), like the Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage, has both a battery and a petrol engine. You can charge it up to drive on pure electric power for shorter trips (usually 30-50 miles), with the engine available for longer journeys. A standard (or self-charging) hybrid, like the Nissan Qashqai E-Power, also has an engine and a motor, but you can't plug it in; it generates its own electricity as you drive.
2. How long does it take to charge an electric family car?
This varies hugely depending on the factors including the size of the car's battery and the type of charger that you plug into. Using a standard 3-pin plug at home can take over 24 hours for a full charge. A dedicated 7kW home wallbox charger is much better, typically taking 8-12 hours for a full charge overnight. Using a public rapid charger (50kW+) can add around 100 miles of range in 20-30 minutes, making them ideal for top-ups on long journeys.
3. Are electric cars practical for family holidays in the UK?
Absolutely, especially with the latest long-range models. A car with a real-world range of 250+ miles can handle most UK journeys with just one planned charging stop. The key is planning ahead using apps like Zapmap or the car’s built-in navigation to find rapid chargers along your route. Access to a reliable network like Tesla's Superchargers makes it even easier.
4. Do I need a home charger to own an electric car?
While not essential, a home charger makes owning an EV much cheaper and more convenient. It allows you to charge overnight using cheaper off-peak electricity tariffs, meaning you wake up to a 'full tank' every morning. If you can't have a home charger, you'll need to rely on public chargers or charging at work, which can be more expensive and less convenient.
5. Are seven-seater electric cars available?
Yes, and the choice is growing. The Mercedes-Benz EQB is one of the most popular options. Other choices include the much larger and more expensive Volkswagen ID.Buzz and Kia EV9. As the market continues to evolve, we expect to see more seven-seat EVs come to market.
6. How much does it cost to run an electric family car?
Running costs are a major advantage. For example, charging an EV at home on an off-peak electricity tariff can cost as little as 3-5p per mile, compared to 15-20p per mile for a petrol or diesel car. Do be aware, however, that relying on the public rapid charging network can work out even more expensive than running a petrol car.
What Makes CarGurus Best Cars Guides Different?
Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in December 2025. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
