In the last few years, the EV segment has absolutely exploded. It means that while the genesis days of the electric car were largely centred around smaller, more compact models, this new breed has been made to fit into more types of lives – namely family ones.

They aren’t restricted to one brand, either. Manufacturers from across the board have got in on the action to compete – so there’s loads of variety out there to choose from.

But as well as their emissions-free powertrain, the best electric family cars also have plenty of practicality-focused touches which makes them easier to live with on a day-to-day basis. Plus, they all have more than enough range to keep up with the to-and-fro of family life.

The best used electric cars for families

As we’ve touched upon, the electric car segment has plenty of variety to offer meaning that there are cars for all occasions. If you’re thinking of going electric on your next used family car then you’re definitely in luck as we’ve got models of all shapes and sizes to check out.

They all offer different features and positives, too. Look to MG, for example, if you’re after an EV that’ll come at a rock-bottom price while BMW’s electric cars mirror its ‘traditional’ models with their great build quality and sporty drive.

You needn’t have a large car for a family runabout, either. Many smaller EVs have larger cabins and bigger boots than you might expect, so they’re able to deliver more practicality than you’d first think.

1. Audi e-tron (2019-2022)

The e-tron represented Audi’s first proper foray into the electric car mainstream. It arrived with some superb features, too, including a large spacious cabin that could shame even the most spacious of petrol SUVs, along with an eye-catching dual-screen layout which controlled both the media and ventilation functions.

But what about the features which make it a great used electric family car? Well, the e-tron’s large size makes it great for stretching out and relaxing inside, while its comfortable suspension does a great job of soaking up the lumps and bumps in the road. We also like the handy ‘frunk’ – in the area where you’d usually find a car’s engine – which provides a great place to store the charging cables.

Best features

  • The e-tron could provide a range of up to 254 miles in its biggest-battery form
  • The e-tron’s interior is built to a typically Audi standard; it’ll hold up to daily use easily
  • All cars came with loads of head-turning technology and features

Things to consider

  • A ‘Sportback’ version came along in 2020, bringing a sleeker shape which helped boost range slightly
  • The e-tron has a really handy 605-litre boot which is larger than many rival offerings
  • Entry-level versions couldn’t deliver the most range, with Audi claiming up to 191 miles on a full charge
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2. Mercedes EQB (2023-)

The Mercedes EQB may have only recently gone on sale, but it’s already a great choice in the used market. What does it have that so many other EVs miss out on? Seven seats. In fact, the EQB is one of a very small number of seven-seater electric cars available today, which makes it an ideal choice for larger families or people who need more space.

But what else has it got to offer besides those clever seats? Well, as one of the latest cars in the Mercedes EQ range – that’s what it calls its line-up of electric cars – it’s got plenty of high-tech features including an ultra-widescreen display which holds all your key information and features. It’s also remarkably zippy away from the line, with all versions getting more than enough power.

Best features

  • The EQB’s seven-seater layout is ultra-flexible and you can easily raise or lower the seats to provide more passenger space or a bigger boot
  • Mercedes says that the EQB should deliver up to 253 miles between trips to the plug
  • We really like the full-width ‘lightbar’ on the front – it makes the EQB look really futuristic

Things to consider

  • All versions of the EQB get four-wheel-drive, so they’ve got more than enough traction in poor conditions
  • The EQB has been adapted from the petrol-powered GLB and the conversion means that boot space is down; standing at 465 litres over the 565 litres in the GLB
  • With the three-pronged star on the nose, the EQB will be pricier to buy than other used cars in this list
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3. MG 5 (2020-present)

MG has been quietly making some big moves in the electric car market. Though you might’ve thought of MG as the maker of classic British sports cars, it has been reincarnated as one of the most value-focused EV builders around today. It also makes some of the best electric family cars around.

The MG5 is one of its most practical. It’s one of a very small number of electric estate cars on sale today, which gives it a rather unique approach in the market. You get a large boot, a sleek shape and plenty of in-car technology, which is all delivered at a price which vastly undercuts rivals. But this isn’t some cut-price knock-off; the MG5 drives really nicely and is impressively comfortable, too.

Best features

  • Though not the largest of cars, the MG5 has plenty of interior space – including legroom and headroom – to offer
  • Early versions of the MG5 could return up to 214 miles of range; newer variants of the MG5 improved on this
  • The 578-litre boot space is really handy while the boot opening itself is wide and ideal for buggies or scooters

Things to consider

  • The MG 5 was refreshed in 2023, bringing a sharper exterior look and more range
  • Interior materials aren’t as plush as in rivals, but they are hard-wearing
  • MG originally said that the MG 5’s roof rails were only decorative, but it has since confirmed that they’re rated to carry up to 35kg of luggage
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4. Skoda Enyaq (2021-present)

Skoda took all of its well-known plus points such as solid build quality, great levels of standard equipment and a family-friendly approach while integrating them with an electric car. The end product? That was the Enyaq – and it’s a car we’re quite fond of here at Motors.co.uk.

Why? Well, the Enyaq is an electric car which doesn’t feel too much like an electric car. Sure, it can deliver up to 338 miles of range, but it’s comfortable, easy to drive and impressively spacious. In classic Skoda fashion, it’s got loads of ‘Simply Clever’ features, too, such as hooks in the boot to stop your shopping from rolling about or small pockets on the seat backs for holding a smartphone. It all makes the Enyaq really easy to live with and a great option for a used family electric car.

Best features

  • The Enyaq has a superb 585-litre boot which is dead easy to use thanks to the lack of a load lip
  • The Enyaq has some clever pre-conditioning tech which means you can warm it up or cool it down via a smartphone app – you can even defrost the windscreen from the comfort of your home
  • A four-wheel-drive version Enyaq is offered – look out for versions with ‘X’ in the name

Things to consider

  • Though the large infotainment screen in the Enyaq is clear, some owners have reported it to be a little laggy at times
  • Smaller-battery ’60’ models will return less range than the headline ’80’ versions – expect around 246 miles between charges
  • The Enyaq is quite a large car, so it may take some getting used to if you’ve been driving smaller models previously
Search Used Skoda Enyaq

5. BMW iX (2021-present)

If you’re after a used electric family car which feels particularly special, then look no further than the BMW iX. It’s actually BMW’s flagship electric car which means it’s got all of the bells and whistles you could possibly want, including an amazing ‘curved’ infotainment display which looks straight out of science fiction.

But it’s also remarkably spacious inside, with loads of headroom on offer. For kids, there are plenty of charging spots for smartphones and tablets, while those sitting up front can enjoy a raised-up view of the road ahead. Some versions also get snazzy ‘crystal’ trim pieces for areas like the gear selector and infotainment rotary dial.

The 500-litre boot in the iX is nice and roomy, too, while inside there are plenty of interior pockets and cubbies to keep things tidy.

Best features

  • The iX feels really high-quality inside, with loads of tip-top materials used throughout
  • The space that the iX offers is great, so it’ll be ideal for larger families
  • BMW claims that the iX will return 380 miles from a charge

Things to consider

  • As a premium electric SUV, the iX will be costlier to purchase than other cars on this list
  • It’s a big car, the iX, so it may not be the ideal choice for people without dedicated parking spaces or somewhere roomy to go
  • Though expensive, depreciation hasn’t been kind to the iX – so bear this in mind whenever you’re looking at one
Search Used BMW iX

6. Hyundai Kona Electric (2018-present)

While Hyundai might have established itself as a creator of low-cost cars, it has quickly risen to become one of the go-to names in the electric car segment. Why? Well, it has been able to deliver great cars – like the Kona Electric – which deliver loads of technology and performance for a price that is hard to argue with.

The Kona Electric is the kind of electric car that’ll slot into family life with zero fuss. It’s well made, has some great on-board technology while early versions can deliver a competitive range of up to 280 miles. Later versions bumped this up to around 300 miles, too. There are also loads available on the used market, so you’re spoiled for choice in terms of specifications and prices.

Best features

  • The Kona arrived with Hyundai’s ‘three-pronged’ approach to powertrains, with petrol, hybrid and electric offered – you can spot the full EV version by its smoothed-off front grille
  • Later versions adopted a slightly sleeker look with sharper headlights
  • Early models of the Kona get a 350-litre boot, with later models having a 357-litre boot through battery alterations

Things to consider

  • Heavy global demand early in the Kona’s life hamstrung UK new car deliveries, so you might not find as many early models as you’d expect
  • Some interior materials are a little scratchy, but they’re robust and hard-wearing
  • The boot has a small lip to it, so heavier items could be a bit of a pain to load
Search Used Hyundai Kona Electric

7. Peugeot e-208 (2019-present)

Good things sometimes come in small packages – and that’s definitely the case with the Peugeot e-208. It’s a car which is built in the character of the classic French hatch, albeit with a clean-running electric powertrain underneath.

But why is this small EV a great used electric family car? Well, thanks to clever packaging it’s got more interior space than you might think, while its compact dimensions make it a breeze to park and live with. Peugeot has also packed the e-208 with character thanks to edgy looks which include distinctive ‘claw’ daytime running lights. For such a small car, the e-208’s 224-mile range is impressive, too, and means this small car isn’t just suited for life in the city – it can venture further afield without issue.

Best features

  • The e-208 was competitively priced when new, so there are some truly budget-busting models available on the used market
  • All cars get plenty of technology, including a large central screen
  • At 311 litres, the e-208’s boot is more spacious than many people may think

Things to consider

  • Earlier models might’ve spent a lot of time in the city, so look out for car park dings and scratched wheels
  • The e-208 comes with a smaller-than-usual steering wheel – as part of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit system – which takes some getting used to
  • Rear seat space is tighter than other family cars, but it’s still more than enough for kids
Search Used Peugeot e-208

8. Volkswagen ID.3 (2020-present)

The ID.3 was the first car in Volkswagen’s new range of ‘ID’ badged models, signifying a whole new age of electric vehicles. In fact, Volkswagen puts it alongside the Beetle and Golf in terms of importance for the brand.

As a result, it’s packed with features which now make it a superb used electric family car. It’s been designed as an electric car from the start – rather than adapted from a petrol model – which means that it’s got loads of room inside and plenty of headspace for taller passengers. It also uses a very button-free layout, with many of the controls located within the main screen instead. Big-battery models can return up to 336 miles of range, too, meaning it’s got loads in the ‘tank’ for big adventures too.

Best features

  • The ID.3 has a cleverly packaged design which means it’s the same size as a ‘normal’ hatchback but has more boot and interior space
  • The 385-litre boot you get in the ID.3 is actually five litres larger than the one in the ‘normal’ Golf
  • The ID.3 has been available in loads of eye-catching colours, including a very bright blue shade

Things to consider

  • Early ID.3 models were plagued by software issues which were sorted by updates – make sure any car you’re looking at has had these completed
  • The first run of ID.3 models were offered with small, medium and large battery sizes, but this has since been cut down to just the middle one
  • ID.3s on larger wheels can feel a bit stiff, so opt for smaller-wheeled ones if you’re after a comfier ride
Search Used Volkswagen ID.3

9. Volvo XC40 Recharge (2020-present)

The XC40 is a big-hitter in the SUV segment, but what if you want a fully electric version? That’s where the XC40 Recharge comes in. It’s got the same great interior and clean exterior but with a clever electric powertrain underneath.

With its boxy proportions, the XC40 has plenty of headroom to offer, while numerous cubbies and stowaway areas are welcome too. Plus, the XC40 is a great EV for people who don’t want to shout about driving an electric car since it looks largely the same as the petrol version; the only difference is the closed-off front grille.

Large battery versions of the Volvo XC40 Recharge can return up to 311 miles of range, or 290 miles on models equipped with the smaller battery.

Best features

  • The interior of the XC40 is really clean and bright – it’s also made with loads of sustainable materials
  • The main infotainment is a breeze to use and easily integrates your smartphone
  • There’s a 461-litre boot available in the XC40 Recharge, alongside a handy ‘frunk’ for the charging cables

Things to consider

  • The interior of the XC40 is quite minimalist, so don’t expect too many flamboyant touches
  • Strong residuals mean the XC40 might command a premium in the second-hand market
  • Soft suspension means the XC40 can lean a bit through bends, but this does mean it’s more comfortable
Search Used Volvo XC40 Recharge

10. Tesla Model 3 (2019-present)

It would be hard to make a list of the best used electric family cars without mentioning Tesla in some way. The Model 3 is the car which put Tesla into the mainstream, with its excellent range and tech-laden cabin making it a great choice for family users.

Kids will love the uber-large screen which can be used to play games on or watch movies (when stationary, of course) while adults can enjoy the Model 3’s comfortable ride and invigorating performance. It’s also got access to Tesla’s excellent Supercharger network, which has locations across the country. An impressive 348-mile range (look out for “Long Range” versions) means that the Tesla Model 3 won’t shy away from big mileage adventures, either.

Best features

  • The interior of the Model 3 is definitely stripped-back, but it has everything a family needs including charge points and plenty of storage
  • All versions get plenty of features such as air-conditioning, heated front seats and keyless entry
  • Even ‘standard’ versions can out-accelerate most ‘normal’ petrol and diesel cars

Things to consider

  • Model 3s have suffered with reliability issues, so make sure to give everything a good prod and a press
  • There weren’t too many colour options available for the Model 3, so personalisation is limited
  • Nearly all features – including the mirrors and windscreen wipers – are controlled through the main screen, which can feel a bit alien to begin with
Search Used Tesla Model 3

Why should you buy a used electric family car?

  • According to charging experts Pod Point, the cost to fully charge an average electric vehicle at home will be around £17 (depending on battery size), making it much cheaper than a typical petrol or diesel car. You could save even more by shopping around for better tariffs as energy prices improve.
  • Remember too that an electric car incurs no road tax, so there’s another saving to be had
  • Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars, so maintenance costs will be equal if not less
  • Because of their design, you’ll find that many electric vehicles have a more spacious interior than petrol and diesel cars so they’re a great option for families who want a model with plenty of interior space

Is an electric car suited to your family?

Though an electric car has plenty of positives, there are some things to think about as to whether or not one would be suited to your family. If you’re a family who likes to go on long-distance adventures, then you’ll need to add in a little extra time for charging and topping up. However, as our list shows, plenty of used EVs have more than enough range for most occasions. If you feel like this would be too much stress, then a hybrid could provide a great blend of both worlds.

You’ll also need to consider whether or not you can charge at home. Charging at home is one of the easiest ways to top-up an EV, but you’ll need off-street parking and a place where a charger could be installed. It’s definitely still possible without this, it just won’t be quite as easy nor as cheap since you can’t take advantage of cheaper home energy rates.

Tips for finding and buying a used electric family car

There are lots of fundamentals of buying a ‘normal’ car that we’d also suggest following on an electric vehicle. For instance, we’d always make sure that any car has had any servicing done that is required – even though EVs don’t need quite as much – and it’s a good idea to have a history report done to make sure there isn’t any outstanding finance. You can do these online and they’re relatively inexpensive.

We’d also ensure that you do a test drive for any vehicle that you’re interested in buying – and don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions.

If you’re at the information-gathering stage, then we’ve got plenty of reviews and guides on everything you need to know about driving an electric car since it does bring a variety of new hurdles and challenges – it’s a whole new way of thinking compared with a petrol or diesel car.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most spacious electric car?

The most spacious electric car is the one which fits your needs the best. All of the cars we’ve checked out today have a decent amount of space, with even the compact e-208 bringing plenty of room in the boot. If you’re after outright capacity, however, we’d be looking in the direction of the Skoda Enyaq or the Audi e-tron – both have really large boots.

What is the best 7-seater EV?

The electric seven-seater range isn’t the broadest, so your options are pretty limited. However, we’ve already checked out the Mercedes EQB, which combines seven-seater practicality with that all-important electric setup in a very polished car overall. Though not on this list, certain Tesla Model S cars had rear-facing seats in the boot section – though they’re very small and only really suited to children.

Is there an electric large SUV?

As you’ll have probably noticed through our list, the SUV bodystyle has been one which has been a go-to for car manufacturers. They vary in size, of course, but if you’re after a particularly large one then we’d be looking in the direction of the BMW iX, the Skoda Enyaq or the Audi e-tron. Cars like the Volvo XC40, for example, sit on the more compact end of the SUV spectrum.

Are electric cars cheaper to run?

How cheaply you can run an electric car depends entirely on how you charge it. If you’re able to top up at home then you’ll be able to take advantage of the best rates – as we’ve touched upon, that’ll return a full charge for around £17. However, you’ll see charging prices increase substantially if you have to rely on public charging. In some instances, using an ultra-rapid charger could cost around £40 to fully top-up an EV, which is equivalent to petrol.

What electric car goes the furthest on a full charge?

Electric car ranges have come on seriously in recent years. Whereas the first EVs could barely scrape 100 miles, modern versions are pushing well past the 300-mile mark. Tesla has always been a big-hitter in this area and you’ll see from our list the Model 3 – with its 348-mile range – is one of the best long-distance options here.

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Jack Evans
Jack has been nattering about cars since at least 2013 - professionally, at least - driving and reviewing the latest models. Trying cars of all sizes, from tiny electric city cars to big luxury SUVs, Jack has tested hundreds of models during his time talking about all things four-wheels. Though he’s always keen on new technology, give him a fast estate car and he’s happy.
Article published September 29th, 2023