Best 8 seater cars UK: top family vehicles for 2025
Finding the perfect 8-seater car for your family requires careful consideration of space, comfort, safety, and value. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best large family vehicles available in the UK market for 2025.
Top 8-seater cars in the UK
Ford Galaxy
The Ford Galaxy remains one of the most popular choices for large families, offering exceptional value and practicality. With ample cargo space and comfortable seating for eight, it provides a reliable performance that families can count on. Used models typically range from £15,000 to £25,000, making it an accessible option for many budgets.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class
For those seeking luxury combined with space, the Mercedes V-Class stands out with its refined interior and smooth ride. Features include advanced safety technology and impressive cargo capacity of up to 1,410 litres with the third row folded. Pricing starts from around £50,000 for new models, while used options are available from £30,000. Learn more about the V-Class features.
Volkswagen Multivan
The Volkswagen Multivan offers a modern approach to family transport, featuring:
- Versatile seating configurations
- Advanced safety features including automatic post-collision braking
- Side protection monitors
- Choice of diesel and electric powertrains
Ford Transit Custom Kombi
An excellent choice for larger families, the Transit Custom Kombi combines practicality with modern features. It offers:
- Up to 9 seats (8 comfortably)
- 1,447 litres of cargo space
- 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine options
- Advanced safety features including lane-keeping aid
Citroen e-SpaceTourer
For environmentally conscious families, the all-electric e-SpaceTourer presents a compelling option. According to Auto Express, it combines zero emissions with practical family-friendly features, including:
- Spacious interior configuration
- Modern tech integration
- Comprehensive safety features
- Silent, smooth electric operation
Toyota Proace Verso
The Toyota Proace Verso offers excellent value with its combination of practicality and reliability. Starting from around £30,000, it features:
- Multiple engine options including efficient diesel powertrains
- Flexible seating arrangements
- Comprehensive safety package
- Strong build quality
When choosing between these vehicles, consider factors such as your specific space requirements, intended usage patterns, and budget constraints. Modern safety features should also play a crucial role in your decision-making process, particularly for family transport.
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Best MPVs and large SUVs compared
When it comes to spacious family vehicles in the UK market, several MPVs and large SUVs stand out for their impressive combination of practicality, comfort, and versatility. Let’s examine the top contenders in detail.
Premium options
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class leads the premium segment with its refined interior and smooth ride. Starting from around £50,000, it offers exceptional comfort with 1,030 litres of cargo space that expands to 1,410 litres with the third row folded. The vehicle comes equipped with advanced safety features including speed limiters and lane-keeping assist systems.
The Volkswagen Multivan represents another high-end choice, featuring modern technology and sophisticated safety systems like automatic post-collision braking and side protection monitors. With prices starting from £40,000, it offers excellent value in the premium segment while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate various seating configurations.
Mid-range alternatives
The Ford Transit Custom Kombi presents an excellent mid-range option, offering up to 9 seats (though 8 is the optimal configuration for comfort) and impressive cargo capacity of 1,447 litres, expandable to 2,674 litres with the third row folded. Starting from around £32,000, it provides excellent value with features like intelligent speed assist and lane-keeping aid according to recent reviews.
The Toyota Proace Verso stands out for its practical approach, offering various engine options including diesel powertrains. Starting from approximately £30,000, it combines affordability with practicality while maintaining high standards of comfort and safety features.
Electric alternatives
For environmentally conscious families, the Citroen e-SpaceTourer offers an all-electric option with zero emissions. While the starting price of around £45,000 might seem steep, the lower running costs and environmental benefits make it an attractive option as noted by industry experts.
The Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric provides another compelling electric option, starting from approximately £40,000. It combines practical features with modern safety technology, making it an excellent choice for families looking to transition to electric vehicles.
- Premium segment starts from £40,000-£50,000
- Mid-range options available from £30,000-£35,000
- Electric alternatives typically range from £40,000-£45,000
- All models offer flexible seating configurations
- Cargo space varies significantly between models
When comparing these vehicles, it’s essential to consider not just the initial purchase price but also the long-term running costs, particularly when choosing between conventional and electric powertrains. Each model offers unique advantages, from the premium comfort of the Mercedes V-Class to the practical efficiency of the Ford Transit Custom Kombi.
Family car safety features and ratings
When it comes to transporting your family safely, modern 8-seater vehicles offer an impressive array of safety features and strong crash test performance. Let’s examine the key safety aspects of the leading family cars available in the UK market.
Top safety performers
Several 8-seater vehicles have achieved impressive safety ratings in rigorous testing. The Mercedes V-Class stands out with its comprehensive safety package, including speed limiter, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision prevention systems. The Volkswagen Multivan also excels with features like automatic post-collision braking and side protection monitors.
The Peugeot 5008, which can be configured as an 8-seater, has achieved an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP rating with particularly strong scores in adult occupant protection (94%) and child occupant protection (82%). Similar impressive safety performances have been demonstrated by other large family vehicles in this category.
Essential safety technologies
Modern 8-seater family cars come equipped with several critical safety features:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Detection
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Multiple ISOFIX Points
- 360-degree Camera Systems
The Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan both offer comprehensive safety packages that include most of these features as standard. Advanced driver assistance systems have become increasingly sophisticated, helping to prevent accidents before they occur.
Child safety considerations
Family cars in this category excel in child protection features. The Mercedes V-Class and Toyota Proace Verso offer multiple ISOFIX mounting points, ensuring child seats can be securely installed. The Renault Trafic Passenger provides excellent third-row accessibility, making it safer and easier to secure children in the rearmost seats.
Most models also feature child locks on sliding doors, window locks, and advanced airbag systems designed specifically to protect younger passengers. These features, combined with strong structural integrity, provide comprehensive protection for all occupants, particularly children.
Structural safety and crash protection
The latest generation of 8-seater vehicles features reinforced passenger cells and strategic crumple zones. The Volkswagen Multivan, for instance, employs high-strength steel in critical areas to maintain cabin integrity during collisions. The Mercedes V-Class utilizes advanced materials and design techniques to achieve superior crash protection while maintaining a relatively light weight for better handling and efficiency.
These structural elements work in conjunction with multiple airbag systems and seat belt pre-tensioners to provide comprehensive protection in the event of a collision, making these vehicles some of the safest options for large families on UK roads.
Space and comfort in large family cars
When it comes to space and comfort in 8-seater family vehicles, several models stand out for their exceptional interior design and versatility. Let’s explore the key features that make these vehicles ideal for large families.
Interior space and seating configuration
The Mercedes V-Class leads the pack with its refined interior and versatile seating arrangements. With a cargo space of 1,030 litres (expanding to 1,410 litres with the third row folded), it offers exceptional flexibility for both passengers and luggage. The premium interior quality and smooth ride make it a top choice for families seeking comfort and luxury according to expert reviews.
The Ford Transit Custom Kombi impresses with its generous cargo capacity of 1,447 litres, which can be expanded to 2,674 litres by folding the third row. This makes it particularly suitable for families who need to balance passenger comfort with substantial storage requirements.
Comfort features and amenities
Modern 8-seater vehicles come equipped with numerous comfort features that enhance the family travel experience. The Volkswagen Multivan, for instance, stands out with its sophisticated interior and innovative seating solutions. It offers:
- Modular seating system with sliding and rotating seats
- Individual climate control zones for all three rows
- Multiple USB charging ports throughout the cabin
- Acoustic comfort glass for reduced road noise
Technology and entertainment systems
The latest 8-seater models feature advanced technology integration to keep all passengers entertained and connected. The Mercedes V-Class and Volkswagen Multivan lead the way with state-of-the-art entertainment systems including:
- Large touchscreen infotainment displays
- Wireless smartphone integration
- Multiple charging points for devices
- Optional rear-seat entertainment screens
- Premium sound systems with multiple speakers
Practical interior features
Beyond pure space and comfort, practical features make a significant difference in daily family use. The Toyota Proace Verso and Renault Trafic Passenger excel in this area with thoughtful additions such as:
- Abundant storage compartments throughout the cabin
- Easy-clean materials for family-friendly maintenance
- Multiple cup holders and device storage spaces
- Flexible load-through options for longer items
These vehicles demonstrate how modern 8-seater family cars have evolved to meet the diverse needs of larger families, combining spacious interiors with practical features and advanced technology to enhance the overall travel experience.
Running costs and fuel economy guide for 8 seater cars
When considering running costs and fuel economy for 8 seater family cars, it’s essential to understand the differences between various fuel types and their long-term financial implications. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect:
Fuel efficiency comparison
Different fuel types offer varying levels of efficiency and running costs:
- Electric vehicles (EVs): Zero tailpipe emissions and lowest running costs, with electricity being significantly cheaper than traditional fuels
- Hybrid vehicles: Excellent fuel economy, especially in urban environments, combining the benefits of electric and conventional powertrains
- Diesel engines: Better fuel economy for long-distance driving, offering up to 20% better efficiency than petrol
- Petrol engines: Generally less efficient but better suited for shorter, urban journeys
Maintenance considerations
Maintenance costs vary significantly between different powertrains. Electric vehicles typically have the lowest maintenance requirements due to fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes. Traditional diesel and petrol vehicles require more regular servicing, including oil changes, filter replacements, and general maintenance.
Environmental impact and running costs
The environmental impact directly correlates with running costs, particularly in urban areas with emission zones:
- Electric vehicles: Lowest environmental impact and running costs, with zero tailpipe emissions
- Hybrid vehicles: Reduced emissions and lower fuel consumption, especially in city driving
- Modern diesel engines: Improved emissions compared to older models, but still higher than electric alternatives
- Petrol engines: Generally higher emissions and fuel consumption in large 8 seater vehicles
Cost-effective choices
For families seeking the most cost-effective 8 seater option, electric vehicles like the Citroen e-SpaceTourer offer significant long-term savings through lower running costs and reduced maintenance requirements. However, the initial purchase price is typically higher than conventional fuel alternatives.
Long-term value considerations
When evaluating long-term value, consider these factors:
- Depreciation rates: Electric and hybrid vehicles often maintain better residual values
- Insurance costs: Vary significantly between models and powertrains
- Tax implications: Electric vehicles benefit from lower tax rates and potential incentives
- Fuel price stability: Electricity prices tend to be more stable than fossil fuel costs
Making a cost-effective choice requires balancing initial purchase price against long-term running costs while considering your specific usage patterns and requirements. Electric and hybrid options generally offer the best long-term value, particularly for families doing regular urban journeys.