Over the past decades, girls have learned to drive a car no worse than men. But what kind of “iron horse” do car ladies feel comfortable behind the wheel of? It's no secret that ladies prefer bright compact cars. We present you an overview of the most popular small cars for women.
The advantages of small cars
When we hear the expression "women's car", then we involuntarily imagine a small, nimble car with a bright color and an expressive design. Due to the constant congestion of modern roads, the lack of parking spaces, and the high cost of gasoline, mini cars can increasingly be found on the roads.
Female models have a number of advantages:
- efficiency- their main advantage. In modern conditions, when the cost of fuel is constantly rising, many car owners, and not only women, prefer to travel in small cars;
- maneuverability— driving a small car is much easier to get around in a modern city; it is much easier to park, go around an obstacle, or make a U-turn in a mini car than in a large car;
- low cost content auto - the owner of a small car annually saves a significant part of the family budget on transport tax, insurance policy, repairs and maintenance of his small car;
- design— small cars, as a rule, are distinguished by a catchy design and rich, bright body colors — with such a car you will not be able to get lost in the flow of city cars, which is very pleasing to the fair sex;
- affordable price car - of course, there are small cars for which you will have to pay a large sum, but as a rule, most of them are inexpensive and available for purchase by the average car owner.
Car selection
The modern automobile industry supplies the market with a large variety of ladies' cars. Among them, any girl will be able to find “her” car and choose a car according to her needs. The presence of an automatic transmission, abs, climate control, power steering and other additional options in a car certainly makes the ride more comfortable.
But what should you pay attention to first?
The first thing you need to focus on when choosing is safety. As a rule, this must be a car with an automatic transmission and an installed parking sensors system.
Lady drivers in small cars are always at greater risk on the roads, because in any, even minor, accident, such vehicles are more damaged. Second, and no less important, is reliability.
Only when driving a reliable, well-functioning car will a woman feel confident.
TOP 20 best small cars
So which models occupy places in our top? Here are small cars for women, brands, photos and prices.
This modest hatchback is an excellent option for girls and novice drivers. Matiz has small dimensions and a somewhat funny but cute design. It is simple, clear and easy to use. Its biggest advantage is its low cost. This is one of the most budget foreign cars today; the price of a brand new Matiz is about 300 thousand rubles. Another advantage of Matiz is its wear resistance. Car enthusiasts all over the country have appreciated the suspension of the small hatchback; it is practically indestructible. The next plus is very low fuel consumption: from 5 liters on the highway with an engine of 0.8 liters per 100 km. The list of shortcomings of the Matiz includes: a low degree of safety, a weak battery and a small trunk, which is also important, especially for women with children.
One of the best A-class small cars, it features a high-quality, comfortable and beautiful interior, which not every mini car can boast of. Good driving performance, compactness and maneuverability made the picante so popular. The downside is its four-speed gearbox. However, for city driving this is quite enough. Kia is an excellent option for purchasing if you have the funds; the price of a new car in the basic configuration starts at 530 thousand rubles; a used car of the previous generation can be found much cheaper.
One of the most popular models of the Japanese concern. Micra is compact, convenient and reliable gearbox, good handling and maneuverability. She has a very good view through the windshield, which allows her to have full control of the road. The updated 2018 version has changed beyond recognition and has a fantastic design with a bright front end. It will be an impeccable choice for both experienced girls and beginners in driving. For a good pre-restyling copy you will have to pay about 300,000 rubles.
The Korean model captivated girls with its compactness and maneuverability. The car handles the road well, is light and easy to drive. However, it will be more comfortable for short girls. Despite the rustic design, Goetz earned its popularity thanks to its reliability and low cost (from 200 thousand rubles).
High-quality and reliable Japanese, a favorite of women. The car looks elegant and stylish. This is an excellent urban option, combining ease of operation and low fuel consumption. However, you can’t call it budget; car prices reach 900 thousand rubles.
A practical American model with a cute original design in bright colors. Its big advantage is the windshield that extends onto the roof, giving the driver additional visibility. The inside of the car is comfortable and not cramped, despite its small dimensions. The salon easily adapts to any owner and is distinguished by its smooth and noble lines. Spark is excellent value for money, it will cost you 350,000 - 450,000 rubles.
A budget women's car made in Korea is perfect for a girl. Definitely, this is a very comfortable and inexpensive car, with a large functional interior space, but a rather strict interior design. It is comfortable and safe during the trip. The cost of a car is on average 300,000 - 450,000 rubles.
This model is very popular among women. It looks beautiful and stylish, has a modern design and bright LED headlights. The car's good technical equipment and driving characteristics correspond to the declared price. The new Fabia in the basic configuration with a 1.2 liter engine can be purchased for 419,000 rubles, and with an automatic transmission for 559,000 rubles.
A legendary car for a girl. It has proven itself to be a compact, stylish, bright and reliable city car. Features an elegant, carefully thought-out design. The advantages include a spacious interior, a convenient instrument panel, good handling and a spacious trunk. A new fiesta with a 1.6 liter engine and a manual transmission can be purchased for 592,000 rubles, with an automatic transmission for 732,000.
A nimble, maneuverable mini car will fit perfectly into the rhythm of life in a big city. It stands out for its extraordinary appearance with large, bright headlights and a glass trunk lid. The cost of the new “107” starts from 377,000 rubles and reaches 462,000 in the maximum configuration.
The economical small-sized German hatchback has a sporty, daring appearance. It is easy to operate and comfortable in ergonomics, well suited for both city driving and country trips, has a spacious interior and a fairly roomy trunk. This is a fairly dynamic, comfortable and safe car. Prices for a brand new Corsa start from 514,000 rubles.
Almost immediately after its birth, the C1 became one of the most popular mini cars. He fell in love with the fair sex due to the combination of practicality, cute appearance, low cost and reliability. The advantages of the car include a reliable engine, low fuel consumption, and inexpensive maintenance. A good C1 will cost around 400,000 rubles.
A sophisticated and eye-catching Chinese-made hatchback often becomes the choice of young and energetic girls. Its main advantage is its low price. For just 335,000 rubles you get a car with many additional options, including air conditioning, power steering, parking sensors and ABS.
The Chinese baby combines compact size with a cheerful design and pleasant appearance. Today this is one of the cheapest options for a small car. Prices start from 80,000 rubles, and you can become the owner of a well-equipped car for less than 200,000 rubles,
The mini car looks interesting and sporty. And although it is not particularly popular in Russia, it is an excellent option for an original purchase. You can buy a good car for 450,000 - 600,000 rubles. Configurations with a modern electric motor are offered, but their price starts from 900,000 rubles.
This is a legendary car with a powerful engine and sporty character. It features excellent handling, dynamics and low fuel consumption. Car safety at the highest level. Not only an elegant girl, but also any man will feel comfortable behind the wheel of such a “baby.” Mini Cooper is a prestigious premium car that reflects the status of its owner. The cost starts from RUR 1,200,000.
The Golf is the epitome of handling, quality and style. The German hatchback is distinguished by comfort, maneuverability and decent driving performance. It is created for business girls who value reliability and safety. Prices for cars start from 1,429,000 rubles for the Trendline package with a 1.4 liter engine.
18. Hyundai i20
Compact hatchback with an interesting design. Maneuverable, reliable, with good handling and sound insulation. It features large interior space and efficiency. A good used car will cost 300,000 - 350,000 rubles.
Compact, economical Japanese model for city trips. The original design, combined with high maneuverability and good technical data, made it popular. A good car can be found for 400,000 - 450,000 rubles.
This Japanese model stands out for its extraordinary appearance and is considered a women's car. Comfortable, powerful, economical, equipped with the most advanced technologies, it is perfect for active women. Buying a 1.6 liter beetle will cost from RUB 1,200,000. In this configuration, fuel consumption will be only 5.2 liters per 100 km on the highway and 8.3 liters in city mode.
Choosing a small car up to 200 thousand rubles
When choosing a small car for women up to 200 thousand rubles there is no need to rely on a large assortment of models. For this price, fairly simple models are offered. But even among them you can choose a reliable and high-quality one. It is worth paying attention not only to the appearance, but also to the age of the car (it is better not to consider options older than 10 years), the cost of maintenance, its technical condition, actual fuel consumption, as well as convenience and comfort for the driver.
Auto Mechanic
For 15 years I have been repairing various types of cars, including brands such as VAZ, UAZ, Chevrolet, Mazda, Kia and many others. Everything related to the gearbox, engine or chassis. You can write me your question below in the comments and I will try to answer it in detail.
Buying a car for the city is an important event in the life of every person. When choosing the car of your dreams, the main thing is not to make a mistake. Before buying a car, it is important to determine which model is suitable for city roads and what fuel consumption is. Before going to a car dealership, make a list of characteristics that a car should have for urban conditions.
Domestic or foreign auto industry?
What size should a city car be?
A small car is suitable for city roads. Large models are not very convenient in urban environments, especially when parking. Microcars have a number of advantages; they are more maneuverable than large models. They use less fuel; one refill is enough for a week.
Hatchback is a universal vehicle for the city. It is compact and maneuverable and easy to park in a small yard. As a family car, you should choose a sedan. It is suitable for both city roads and highways. It doesn't handle bad roads well due to the soft suspension. You can choose a family car in the catalog https://riga.altera-auto.ru/. If you have a large family, you should give preference to station wagons.
Automatic or manual?
For trips in densely populated regions and big cities, it is better to purchase a car with an automatic transmission. It is convenient at intersections and traffic lights. The machine itself monitors engine speed and adapts to them. For small settlements, “mechanics” is suitable. A manual transmission allows you to “rock” the car when it gets into a snowdrift or mud. Fuel consumption of a car with a manual transmission is lower.
What is the engine size?
For traveling exclusively on city roads, models with a small volume of 1.2-1.6 liters are suitable. This engine will save fuel when you are stuck in a traffic jam. For trips outside the city, you should choose models with a 1.8-2.5 liter engine.
Rear or front wheel drive?
If you are a beginner, it is better to give preference to front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. They make it easier to drive on bad roads; getting out of a snowdrift or mud will be easier.
Diesel or gasoline?
Diesel engines are more economical and durable, but have a number of negative characteristics:
- increased noise;
- problems with starting at sub-zero temperatures;
- high cost of maintenance.
Gasoline engines are not so demanding on fuel quality and are better suited for high-speed driving. Service and repairs are cheaper.
Active and passive safety?
The active safety system has a whole range of systems that help avoid emergency situations. Includes: anti-lock braking system, emergency braking system, lane tracking system. The passive system is activated during an accident. Seat belts, airbags, and head restraints help prevent injuries.
Which car brand should you choose?
There is no clear answer to this question. Each brand has both strengths and weaknesses. Japanese cars are reliable, but inexpensive models may have cheap plastic in the interior. German models are convenient and comfortable, spare parts for them are not cheap. French cars differ in design, but the reliability of the suspension and gearbox often suffers. American models run well on 92 gasoline, spare parts and repairs are expensive.
Buying a car is not an easy task. You must make your choice responsibly and wisely. You should not make impulsive decisions; you need to choose from the standpoint of convenience, your own driving style and taking into account the purposes of use. There is no universal model for everyone; you need to choose a car that will meet individual requirements.
Purchasing a vehicle is not only pleasant, but also practically important. After all, if you are like the majority of people, then you will choose a car not as another museum exhibit, but for daily use. Therefore, you need to be guided, first of all, by considerations of practicality.
How to choose the best car for the city: dream or reality
What do you encounter on city roads every day? Overloaded traffic, traffic jams, unfriendly drivers, accidents, verbal altercations. How not to succumb to pressure and maintain a good mood regardless of travel conditions?
The answer is extremely simple - choose the right car.
Let's think about what you need for comfort on the road.
Just imagine: a hot day. Hot asphalt. The sun is shining brightly. You are standing in an ordinary morning traffic jam among cars maneuvering and cutting each other off. The cacophony of sounds, the nervousness of drivers - all this makes you want to yell at someone before work begins.
What would help you cope with morning stress? Can you feel safe and secure in a cool cabin? Comfortable seats, convenient location of all the necessary items - the ability to put coffee, place a gadget so that it does not distract, but is in your field of vision. A reliable transport mechanism, the smooth operation of which will not fail at the most inopportune moment, causing you to become the cause of a traffic jam and the object of hatred of other road users. Maneuverability, allowing you to get out of even a difficult, potentially emergency situation.
We must not forget about style. Haven't you always wanted to catch the admiring and sometimes envious glances of other drivers with your distant mirrors? This is much better than feeling like a cyclist who is constantly being pushed to the side of the road. Kings of the road must have a corresponding car.
Do you think that a car that can give you all this exists only in dreams? You are deeply mistaken. The point is small: to choose the right car, you just need to know what to look for.
We won’t reveal the incredible secret of buying the perfect car, but we will help you systematize your selection options so that nothing is left out on your big day.
The best city car: a combination of the incongruous
Why incompatible? We all want to choose a car that is inexpensive, reliable, safe and, of course, beautiful. For more information about the listed criteria and what other parameters we should be concerned about, see below. Choosing the right car requires understanding the purpose of its use. How often do you have to travel? Rush hour or walking through empty streets? How many people should be able to sit comfortably in the cabin? Think about this carefully before you take a step towards your new iron friend.
Basic criteria for choosing the ideal city car
- Price
This is a key parameter that will determine whether you will have to sacrifice a certain amount of comfort or not. Here you also need to take into account the driver's experience. It is hardly worth it for a novice car enthusiast to buy a large car of a popular brand. It may be better to get by with a budget model with a sufficient level of security and the necessary technical data. Imagine how you will practice your parallel parking skills on a bumpy road and decide whether you really want to sit behind the wheel of a brand new, sophisticated Skoda Rapid if you fail. A reliable but inexpensive city car is the best option for beginners. - Dimensions
You are moving calmly along a not too busy road. There is traffic in all lanes, but you feel calm: the speed is appropriate, other drivers are driving smoothly. But suddenly the car in front of you suddenly brakes because of a person running out onto the road. What will save you from a collision? Reaction speed and maneuverability of a compact car for the city.
Traffic congestion on the roads requires more than just attention and skill from the driver. The more comfortable he is in driving a car, the more confident he feels, and the greater the likelihood of successfully resolving difficult situations. The size of the car can also be important for parking. It will be easier for the driver of a small city car to find a parking space than for a driver in a huge car. - Cabin capacity
Parents with many children know how important a large salon is, which can accommodate all family members with comfort, or partial comfort. But even if you don't have kids, frequent trips with friends may make you think about cabin size. So if you like to travel with friends, be sure to pay attention to the capacity - the best city car is the one that is also suitable outside the city. - Brand
Yes, sometimes standing in a car dealership and listening to the sweet-voiced speeches of consultants, we want to buy a completely “exclusive” car of an exotic brand, tailored “individually” to us. Indeed, standing out is important. But think about the process of selecting parts in the event of a breakdown, about their cost. How easy will it be for you to find parts? - Practicality
The car is with you in any conditions and in any weather. He must be ready for seasonal adventures and road battles. First, you need a car with minimal visible dust and dirt (this is important for your sense of yourself as the king of the road). Secondly, paint may be needed at any time due to an accidental collision. If this happens, it will be difficult to find a specific color. - Safety
Everyone needs to feel safe, but this is especially important for inexperienced drivers and those who often transport children. Pay attention to the reliability of the car body and the location of the airbags. - Economical
Market price and profitability are two different things. The second is achieved through fuel consumption. Powerful engines consume more than less impressive models. On the other hand, there is also ecology. Harmful substances generated during the operation of internal combustion engines cause irreparable damage to the environment. To minimize the pollution produced by your car, it is worth taking a closer look at modern, economical city cars. - Specifications
For speed lovers and car connoisseurs, this is the main parameter. But in the hands of an inexperienced driver, extra units of power can lead to disaster. So don't chase technical perfection unless you're a talented Lewis Hamilton imitator. - Comfort
Comfort in sensations. What do you need to feel great while driving a car in cold winters and insanely hot summers? Climate control system. If the car is equipped with air conditioning, you will not have to cool down the hot vehicle or warm up the interior with your breath before children can get into it.
Of course, this is only a certain set of general parameters. Surely you will find something to supplement these criteria, because everyone’s experience is based on individual impressions. However, the most important thing is not to succumb to a fleeting impression under the influence of car dealership consultants. Create an image of your ideal city car in advance - down to the brand. Finding perfection isn't that hard.
Which car to choose for the city?
Ravon does everything to make drivers feel safe and comfortable while driving cars in the city. A cozy interior equipped with air conditioning, airbags, an automatic transmission - all this is not a luxury, but the usual parameters of a standard Ravon car.
For example, the classic Ravon R2 hatchback can be equipped with six airbags, air conditioning, and heated front seats. It is small in size, but does not look small on the road. Doesn't this sound like an urban dream?
If you don't have a clear idea about the make and model of your car, don't make hasty decisions. It is advisable to spread the purchase over several days. First, take a trip to car dealerships and get acquainted with the assortment. Select the appropriate option or several. Imagine yourself as the owner of a car, how comfortable you will be while driving in the city. Only after you are confident in your purchase, complete the purchase.
Finally
The right car is a comfortable car. It should be comfortable inside, economical and maneuverable. Think about how you will feel every day when you get behind the wheel of a car and spend several hours in it in unpleasant traffic jams. Finding a good vehicle is easy, you just need to approach it responsibly.
Don't wish for less - choose only the best.
An article about reliable, but at the same time relatively inexpensive cars - their features and important characteristics. At the end of the article there is a video about reliable cars.
The content of the article:
The main concern of every potential buyer, in addition to the affordability of the car, is the regular costs of its operation, including depreciation, fuel, insurance, maintenance, repairs and other expenses. Models that have been famous for decades for their durability and do not require large maintenance costs seem to be the best choice for every modest car owner.
Unlike most newfangled competitors, these cars often leave their owners completely satisfied even after many years of use and, despite the regular appearance of new tempting offers on the car market, they remain in demand.
We have compiled the top 10 cheap and viable models. They offer the best combination of quality and value in their classes, consistently receive good ratings from owners and professional reviewers, and won't break the bank with everyday use.
If you are looking for a cheap and durable car, you should not look at freshly baked models, no matter how tempting they may be, according to dealers: assessing the reliability of a vehicle that has barely appeared on the market is only theoretical. Pay the most attention to models that have survived several generation changes - they, as a rule, become better with each reconstruction, getting rid of the weak points identified in previous years.
Another aspect is the price. Not always, as you understand, a cheap car can be reliable, although there are exceptions to the rule. We have included in this review those machines that demonstrate a good combination of initial and residual value, practicality, standard equipment and long service life.
This car dates back over 40 years, and in its eighth generation, it's better than ever before. The salon has become more spacious, and the interior is considered one of the best in the class. Driving is fun, and the 1.0-litre engine that powers most versions of the range is smooth and consumes an average of 6.5L/100km.
The car is available in different bodies, with several versions of power units and gearboxes. The manufacturer offers a wide range of options, but the standard equipment is also quite strong - there is lane control and MyKey with speed limit.
Some may be interested in a light sedan based on the Honda Jazz hatchback, but with a longer wheelbase. It has many attractive features, including an interesting exterior and an exceptionally comfortable and spacious interior for its class. Boot space is generous at 536 liters (more than many city crossovers offer), and rear legroom puts many sedans in the next size category to shame.
Even the entry level trim level is well equipped. The car comes with LED daytime running lights, cruise control, 7.0-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, push-button start and a host of other modern equipment.
The base City is powered by an 88kW 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission (a CVT is optional), but different powertrain and gearbox options are available in different markets.
The car is perfect for everyday driving, because it is obedient on the road, easy to maneuver and pleases with its compact dimensions, making parking easier. It certainly doesn't match the segment leaders in terms of outright driver enjoyment, but it makes up for it in practicality and everyday comfort.
3. Dacia Sandero, Duster and Logan MCV
Dacia is known for its "no frills car" philosophy, and it is not surprising that the Sandero hatchback (specifically, the base version with a 1.0-liter 75-horsepower engine) remains one of the cheapest offerings on today's European market. It's hard to believe, but its starting price starts at about 5 thousand euros. Even when you order the top-spec version with its plush turbocharged powertrain, you'll be looking at a brand-new car for less than €13,000. It's a big car for the price of a small one - the Sandero is larger than the Ford Fiesta, which costs less than the Ford Ka+.
No less attractive is the Duster, a cheap crossover the size of the Nissan Qashqai. If you buy the entry-level version, you won't find air conditioning or a digital radio, but you'll get all the necessary safety equipment and a practical interior that copes well with the rigors of family life. Add to this a robust design and reliable modern engines with decent fuel economy.
What about the Logan MCV, a station wagon with a base price of just 6,000 euros? It's a very good car for the money, although you'll have to put up with cheap upholstery, minimal features and rudimentary (but quite reliable) safety features. Pay a few hundred extra and you'll get goodies like air conditioning and power windows, but don't count on particularly advanced technology.
It's a small, city-friendly car with five doors and five seats as standard. You can choose versions with extremely generous standard equipment, but prices rise as you move up the model ladder, so ask yourself, do you really need power rear windows and other frills?
If you use the car for short trips and can do without air conditioning while enjoying the breeze through the open window, look at the entry-level model for less than €11,000. Either way, you'll have a well-built vehicle with one of the best warranties in the industry.
5. Volkswagen Golf
Not many luxury cars deserve such accolades as the popular Golf. Its stylish appearance makes it look great in a school parking lot or outside a fancy restaurant.
It's available as an estate and convertible, but most buyers opt for the practical three- or five-door hatchback. There are cheap, frugal and super-efficient versions (they consume just over 4 liters of fuel every 100 km), and there are expensive and high-performance ones (GTI and R) that can provide the thrill of driving.
Whichever Golf you choose, it's well-built, comfortable, inexpensive to maintain and well equipped: air conditioning, Bluetooth, digital radio and a touchscreen on the dashboard come as standard.
If you need something big, there's a Sorento with 5 or 7 seats. The price of a three-row car will make you think of a run-of-the-mill budget crossover with a poor interior, poor handling and poor build quality. After all, if an SUV has one of the lowest prices in its class, how can it be any good?
Yes, if we are talking about a Kia product. The midsize SUV will surprise you with a smooth, quiet ride similar to that offered by luxury SUVs, a handsome interior, generous interior space and high-tech contents. A large family will be pleased with your choice, including small children.
The Sorento not only has one of the lowest starting prices for a three-row crossover, but it can also please inexpensive spare parts and maintenance, unpretentiousness and wear resistance, so you won't want to part with this car after your kids grow up.
Despite its age, this car continues to be popular among buyers of inexpensive family cars. The current model has a more attractive exterior design compared to previous iterations, and the interior has become almost upscale.
Ford continues to offer a wide range of engines, from the excellent 1.0-litre EcoBoost with impressive economy to the powerful 2.0-litre unit in the Focus ST.
The car is pleasant to drive, equipped with an easy-to-use SYNC 2 infotainment system that can recognize voice and read text messages. All models have excellent modern equipment, but operation has not become more complicated - all controls are intuitive.
8. Skoda Citigo (as well as Volkswagen Up and SEAT Mii)
The Citigo is Skoda's version of the Volkswagen Up and is essentially the same car as the SEAT Mii. But it is the cheapest of the three mechanical twins. Opt for the new three-door Citigo with a 1.0-litre 60PS petrol engine and you'll be looking at a base price of around €7,000. This is not much for a small, nimble car, perfect for residents of big cities both in terms of fuel consumption and maneuverability.
Among the reasons for purchasing it, many car owners cited safety: the Skoda Citigo (along with the almost identical SEAT Mii and Volkswagen Up) was awarded a full five-star rating by independent experts from Euro NCAP.
Even the least expensive version, which can be purchased for 9 thousand euros, will allow you to enjoy modern technologies, high quality materials, easy and inexpensive maintenance.
This is a big car for little money. It is not the cheapest in the class, but owners consider it a good choice. It has a spacious interior and a plush ride, good fuel economy for the class with the standard V6, and low operating costs.
Kia has been building excellent cars in recent years and backing them with a long warranty, up to seven years in some countries (what better proof of reliability than a manufacturer's warranty?). But there are other reasons not to lose sight of this model.
For example, an economical diesel engine and low CO2 emissions. Sportage is aimed at a wide range of buyers, impressing with its low cost, compact size, attractive design and many possibilities, including touring in difficult terrain with bicycles on the roof. We also cannot discount the five-star Euro NCAP rating, which confirms the safety of the car.
All Kia parts are strong and durable, controls are extremely simple, maintenance is easy and inexpensive, and the price starts at low figures. If you want to save money, go for the basic version, because even it offers reliability, comfort and exceptional practicality - everything that the owner of an inexpensive car could want. It's not the most ideal option, but it certainly deserves a place on your list to consider.
The top 10 for each market, segment and class is different - we examined only a small part of the most popular cars.
A good deal is one that you won't regret later. Spending more money on a bigger model or purchasing some options may be necessary in some cases, but if you want a simple car that can get you and your belongings from point A to point B quickly and safely, it's wise to save on luxury and fancy equipment. Advanced technologies, by the way, are not always a blessing: the more complex the technology, the higher the likelihood that something will go wrong.
We have not given specific prices here, because those whose budget is limited often choose used cars rather than new ones, and the cost of new ones in different regions of the world (and even within the same country) can vary dramatically. However, none of the options below will ruin you (provided, of course, that you even have the money to buy and maintain a car).
You can save a lot by knowing the nuances of the car market, for example, its “rush hours”: the end of the month and quarter, when sellers are most interested in the maximum number of sales, the eve of holidays with a bunch of all kinds of promotions, and especially on New Year’s Eve, when dealers try to get rid of last year’s cars and make room for fresh goods. The release of the next version of a product, or, especially, a new generation, can also contribute to favorable price negotiations for you.
Video about reliable cars:
A large family requires an appropriately sized car that can accommodate not only all family members, but also the necessary things. To choose the best family car, you need to pay attention to the dimensions of the vehicle and its capacity. When choosing a family car, one takes into account its design, reliability, security system, and engine power. The rating presents models that combine all of the above parameters and also have a number of other advantages.
Features of choosing a family car
A family car is not just a vehicle that can accommodate more than 2 people. This is not a passenger car, but not a minibus either - it is something in between, satisfying some important criteria. These criteria include:
- Capacity or number of seats. These are not just universal seats, but full-fledged seats that can accommodate adults or children. Each chair-style seat is designed to seat one passenger. There are types of family cars that are equipped with 5 standard seats in two rows, as well as an additional third row. The seats in the third row recline as needed, depending on the number of family members. If a family consists of more than 5 people, then such a car is the best option.
- Safety. The second important criterion when choosing a family car is safety, because spaciousness is not yet an indicator of safety. You can find out the safety level of a vehicle by looking at crash test performance. Each new car model undergoes a crash test, on the basis of which this level is assessed. The security level is assessed by experienced experts, so it is impossible to fake or exaggerate the values.
- Luggage compartment volume. When traveling by car with all family members, it is necessary to have sufficient luggage compartment size. After all, all the things that each family member takes on the road must fit into the luggage compartment. If a vehicle is designed for large capacity, then the car does not always have a luggage compartment of the appropriate size. Before buying a car, you need to consider the size of the trunk. Some car models are equipped from the factory with an additional plastic luggage compartment on the roof. You can install such a trunk yourself, but its disadvantage is the inconvenience of access, especially if all family members are short.
- Availability of security systems. This criterion takes into account the presence of airbags, as well as belts for each passenger and latches for installing child car seats. The higher the level of safety, the more expensive the cost of the car, but you definitely cannot save on this criterion.
- Reliability. This parameter directly affects the cost of the car. The vehicle may have more capacity, as well as various devices: multimedia, airbags, etc. But if the car breaks down often, then any trip can turn out to be a cruise to a car service center. The vehicle manufacturer speaks about the reliability of the car. Cars from China show a low level of reliability.
- Durability. If you buy a car, then this purchase is definitely not for 2-3 years, but for at least 10-15 years. To be able to operate a vehicle for such a long period of time, it is necessary to ensure its durability. Reviews of certain car brands will tell you about this.
- The cost of maintaining a car. The larger the vehicle, the more expensive it costs to maintain. This criterion includes costs for fuel, other fuels and lubricants, and for technical inspections. If you need a family-type car that will have low fuel consumption, then it is important to take into account another criterion such as engine power. The lower the engine power, the more difficult it will be for the car to carry a large number of passengers, so indicators such as consumption, power and capacity are interrelated factors.
- Comfort. You can fit 5 or more passengers in a small passenger car, but it’s impossible to call such a trip comfortable. Safety also decreases when more than 5 people travel in a compact car. All passengers must have their own seat, which will allow them not to experience discomfort or fatigue throughout the entire duration of the trip.
These are the main criteria that you should pay attention to when choosing a family car. Criteria such as cost and design are secondary, and everything depends on the available budget. Regardless of how much a person is willing to spend on buying a family car, the vehicle must meet the above criteria.
The best cars for families in the 2018 ranking: selection based on owner preferences
Family cars may include the following options:
- station wagons;
- minivans;
- crossovers;
- SUVs.
The most popular are minivans, but only if the trip is planned to be on asphalt. Due to their spacious trunk, hatchbacks can also be used as family cars if they have more than 4 seats. Let's consider which body type is best to choose for a family car.
- Station wagons. The cars received this name because of their versatility. The vehicle can be used both for family trips and for daily trips to work. Station wagons are relatively inexpensive and can accommodate 5 or more passengers. The best option for short family trips out of town.
- Minivans. This is the type of car that is intended specifically for traveling with the family. Typically, minivans have a capacity of 6-7 passengers, as well as sufficient luggage compartment volume. A great option for traveling around the country or even around the world.
- Crossovers. The type of cars that can be used for family trips. Their direct purpose is to move both on asphalt and off-road. This is evidenced by increased cross-country ability, increased ground clearance, as well as a powerful engine. An excellent option for family trips out of town: to the forest, river, sea, etc.
- SUVs. If a crossover does not satisfy the needs of a family trip out of town, then you need to give preference to an SUV. Its main difference from a crossover is higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and a powerful engine. An excellent option for family travel both on asphalt and off-road. This is by no means a family car, but is often used for such purposes if the family lives in the provinces.
When the main criteria for choosing a family car are known, we will consider the vehicle models directly, depending on the preferences of the head of the family and all family members.
The best budget family cars
A budget car cannot be big and also have high reliability indicators. The rating presents three options for budget family car models, which are recommended to be preferred.
Lada Largus
According to surveys conducted among Russian residents, it was found that the most budget-friendly family car of domestic production is the Lada Largus. This is a car that is based on the French-Romanian Logan MCV.
The survey showed that this car is impressive due to the following advantages:
- Large capacity.
- Possibility of transporting large-sized cargo.
- Power
The car's fuel consumption is 6.7 liters on the highway, and the luggage compartment volume is 560 liters. This car model is called a Russian creation that has no competitors. The cost of the new Lada Largus model as standard is 554 thousand rubles.
Hyundai Solaris
Korean-Russian budget car Hyundai Solaris, which is assembled in the Leningrad region. This car belongs to the class of family budget cars due to its low cost and low fuel consumption, which is 7.2 liters.
The car is suitable for a small family of 4 people. Hyundai Solaris in 2018 was presented in a new 5th generation body (pictured above). The crash test of this car showed that it is safer than the VW Polo. The cost of such a car starts from 654 thousand rubles.
Renault Duster
The most budget-friendly foreign-made family car is the Renault Duster. This is a crossover that seats 5 people, and at the same time has a trunk with a capacity of 500 liters. Fuel consumption in the extra-urban cycle is 5 liters.
The budget version of the crossover comes in mono and all-wheel drive configurations. Its cost starts from 639 thousand rubles in the initial Authentique configuration.
The most reliable
When talking about car reliability, we mean such indicators as durability, operational reliability and ease of operation. It is on the basis of these criteria that the following car models are given.
Lexus CT200
Lexus cars from Japan were recognized as the most reliable in 2018. Topping the list is the Lexus CT200. The car has 5 seats, so it can be classified as a family car. For those looking for reliability, it is recommended to choose this model.
Mazda 3
The second most reliable family car is the Mazda 3. This car is equipped with a 1.5-liter engine with a power of 120 hp.
The cost of such a model is from 1 million rubles. The car combines all the criteria: quality, reliability, efficiency, comfort and spaciousness.
Toyota Camry
As standard, for 1.2 million rubles you can purchase another car originally from Japan - Toyota Camry. The main advantage of a car brand like Toyota is savings in maintenance.
The Best Family Cars for Traveling
Let's pay attention to family cars, which are recognized as the best for travel. The main criteria for such cars:
- availability of comfortable chairs;
- free place to relax.
Skoda Roomster
In English, “Room” means room, so the Skoda Roomster lives up to its name. This car is also called a house on wheels, as it allows you to accommodate not only passengers, but also conveniently arrange their things. The car has three unique rooms, which increases comfort while traveling.
The main convenience of the car is that the rear seats are located slightly higher than the front ones, which increases visibility for passengers in the rear.
Ford Grand C-MAX
A seven-seater car that can be used for family travel. The original interior of this car allows you to fold the second row seats, gaining access to the rear row of seats.
Ford Grand C-Max
The car is equipped with an economical turbocharged engine. The rear doors of the car open in a non-standard way (in the opposite direction), which was done to increase comfort when boarding passengers.
Renault Scenic
Renault Scenic is called a compact van, which is the best option for long family trips. The car has an elegant and dynamic appearance. When driving on poor-quality road surfaces, such factors as shaking of passengers are eliminated. This is due to the car’s combination of suspension rigidity and interior comfort.
The best solution for those who do not want to buy a minivan, but at the same time have a large family with whom they periodically travel. It is considered an economical car, as fuel consumption is 6 liters per 100 km.
The best family cars for the city
When traveling around the city, it is important that all members of the extended family have a good view. Let's consider which models are recognized as one of the best for such purposes.
Honda FR-V
The main feature of this car model is the presence of six separate seats arranged in two rows. The seat located in front between the driver and passenger is intended more for a child. The car has an attractive appearance, good spaciousness, and wide windows for viewing.
The car was produced with both gasoline and diesel engines. The production of this model has now been completed.
Kia Carens
The advantages of the Korean-made Kia Carens include factors such as a spacious interior and a 492-liter trunk. This car is great for long-distance travel with the whole family, but what it is most appreciated for is its small size. This is very convenient when you need to move around the city.
When driving around the city, the car consumes no more than 8 liters of diesel fuel, which is another advantage when choosing this model. The interior is quite comfortable, so family trips will bring plenty of pleasure.
Volkswagen Touran
A VW Touran compact van is suitable for a large family. It is convenient to travel both long distances and around the city. High-quality interior trim, wear resistance, as well as the presence of many glove compartments and pockets will pleasantly please passengers.
Volkswagen Touran
A good view from the window, as well as the possibility of installing a plastic roof rack are a pleasant addition when traveling with the whole family. The trunk volume is 695 liters, but it can be increased three times by folding the rear backrests. It also belongs to the category of economical cars, since the consumption is only 5.7 liters on the highway.
The most spacious
Capacity is the main criterion if there is a family trip. Often these vehicles include minivans and compact vans.
VW Multivan
An excellent car for family trips, combining not only large capacity, but also the presence of additional accessories: table, kitchen tiles, water tank and socket.
You can not only travel in a car, but also spend the night. Despite all the advantages of such a minivan, fuel consumption is 8 liters per 100 km. Its cost is about 70 thousand euros. This is not a cheap model, but it will definitely bring maximum pleasure from traveling.
VW T5 Doubleback
This model is called a touring van, which is very popular in Europe. If you additionally attach a trailer to such a vehicle, you can travel with several families.
VW T5 Doubleback
The tourist van is equipped with all the necessary devices that you will definitely need during long trips. Its cost is over 85 thousand dollars.
Mercedes V-Class
Another minivan from the German manufacturer Mercedes V-Class. It combines the spaciousness and elegant design that is common to all Mercedes models. Available in three versions: short, medium, long. The initial cost of such a minivan is 3 million rubles.
Mercedes V-Class
An excellent solution for those who want not only to travel in comfort, but also to travel in a stylish and elegant car with their family.
The most economical
An economical car cannot be big, so this rating presents three models that combine low consumption with large capacity.
Citroen C4 Cactus
The capacity of this family car is 5 people including the driver, but the trunk volume is only 358 liters. This drawback is overshadowed by the main advantage of the car - low diesel fuel consumption, which is 3.8 liters in the city and 3.4 liters on the highway. At this consumption, the engine power is 92 “horses,” which is quite enough for all family members to travel.
Citroën C4 Cactus
Opel Zafira
One of the most economical minivans with a capacity of 7 people is the Opel Zafira. The main feature of the minivan is the ability to change the interior depending on the travel conditions. The minivan's gasoline engine consumes 6.5 liters on the highway.
Such a car is relevant only if there is a need to save on fuel, but the trip is carried out by a large family.
Seat Alhambra
Another seven-seater minivan with a fuel consumption of 7.2 liters in mixed driving mode. The engine capacity of such a car is 2 liters and the power is 200 “horses”.
The minivan is equipped with two sliding rear doors, which is a significant advantage when boarding passengers. All passengers can feel comfortable thanks to the separation of all seats.
The best family crossovers
When choosing a crossover for family travel, you need to pay attention to the design of the car. After all, such a car will be used for trips not only outside the city, but also around the city.
Peugeot 3008
Excellent design that combines the appearance of a passenger car and an SUV. The crossover has a capacity of 5 people, but each passenger will feel quite comfortable.
The French crossover Peugeot 3008 has a single-wheel drive, and its consumption is 7.2 liters when driving on the highway. The volume of the luggage compartment is 432 liters.
Hyundai Santa Fe
The crossover has an all-wheel drive system, which allows for family off-road trips outside the city. The car is popular on the Russian market, as it has all the advantages for this: excellent design, high ground clearance, capacity for 5 people. The cabin has 12 speakers, through which a 3D sound effect is created.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Audi Q 5
Another compact crossover, which has been produced since 2008. Its capacity is 5 people, and the car also has an appropriate trunk volume. The main feature of this crossover is its comfort. In 2009, the car's crash test awarded it the highest award.
Best Family SUVs
When choosing a family SUV, it is important to pay attention not only to cross-country ability and reliability, but also to comfort.
Toyota Land Cruiser 200
The Toyota Land Cruiser 200 is rightfully considered the most reliable SUV. This SUV is not only comfortable, but also has a number of different capabilities. It is comfortable to ride on your own, as well as with a large family, since its dimensions allow it to accommodate 5 or more people.
Toyota Land Cruiser 200
For the safety of passengers and the driver, 10 airbags are provided. The presence of electronic devices allows you to brighten up long and long journeys.
Volvo XC 90
Swedish Volvo cars are considered the safest in the world. The car combines factors such as comfort, elegance, and cross-country ability. While in the cabin of this SUV, every passenger will feel as if they are in a mobile home. The SUV is available in five-seat and seven-seat versions.
Mitsubishi Pajero
A full-fledged SUV, which has been produced since 1982. Over the years, the car has undergone many changes, which allowed it to acquire an elegant appearance on the outside and comfort on the inside. The SUV has all-wheel drive, and passenger safety is at the highest level. This car is perfect for family off-road travel.
Mitsubishi Pajero
After analyzing all types of family cars, it is impossible to say which one is the best. Every car is worthy of its owner, if only it satisfies the corresponding needs. When buying a family car, you need to first set your priorities, and only then can you make a choice. The material presents only a portion of the cars for family travel. Which one to choose should be decided in each individual case, listening, of course, to the advice of all family members.
