What Car? Best Buys - Small family cars

Here's our pick of the best models on sale in every class, but you can find our full overview of new and used small family cars by clicking here.

1. Volkswagen Golf 1.6 FSI 5dr
Price £15,162 Target Price £14,293
For anyone wanting a sound family hatchback, the Golf has always been a safe port of call.

It depreciates less than almost any comparable car, and in the Golf's case there really is something to the claims of ' if only everything in life was as reliable as…'

The VW is a car you'll enjoy driving, and is genuinely family-sized. Match trim is great value.
What Car? Full Verdict

2. Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia Price £13,499 Target Price £12,834 The semi-4x4 looks make it stand out in a class where adventurous styling is rare, while the relaxed driving characteristics, find ride and practical interior are other plus points. What Car? Full Verdict

3. Mazda 3 1.4 TS Price £12,740 Target Price £11,861 The 3 is a fine-looking car that is a joy to drive. If that doesn't make you want one, the roomy, stylish cabin, low prices and Mazda's fantastic reliability reputation might help. What Car? Full Verdict

The green option
Honda Civic 1.4i-VTEC Hybrid
Price £16,600 Target Price £15,684
Honda's alternative to the Toyota Prius uses battery power to back up the engine.
What Car? Full Verdict

Something different
Volvo C30 2.0D SE
Price £19,295 Target Price £18,271
The sharply styled small Volvo is an appealingly different kind of small hatchback.
What Car? Full Verdict

The top five… most extensive ranges
1 Audi A3 65 models
2 Ford Focus 56 models
3 Renault Megane 56 models
4 Vauxhall Astra 44 models
5 BMW 1 Series 38 models

What Car? Group Test March 2007
Ford Focus Nissan Qashqai Toyota Auris VW Golf
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