School run stars - some of the best used family cars on the market

After months away from the classroom children around the country are either already back in class or about to head back to school.

That means the resumption of the school run and, like commuters, some parents may now be looking for a car that they can use to get their children to school rather than risking using public transport.

While some are turning to new cars, the used car market has also seen an upturn in business, so to help parents considering a new car for family duties we spoke to James Fairclough, CEO of AA Cars for advice on what to look for in a used family car as well as his picks for some of the best used family cars.

“For many, the ideal family car will have a large boot and spacious cabin, accompanied by a good safety rating,” he says. “You should look out for a five-star Euro NCAP rating, the top score for safety.

“When purchasing any used car, it is important to buy from a reputable dealer and carry out a history check to confirm that the mileage and number of previous owners are accurate, and that it has not been stolen, been in an accident or written off. It will also confirm there is no outstanding finance to be paid.

"It is also recommended that you book a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified engineer before handing over any money. It is also worth considering taking out a warranty to provide further reassurance that you will be covered if your car requires any unexpected repairs.”

To help you navigate the sea of options out there, here are six of James’s favourite family cars.

Volkswagen Polo

Superminis have grown in size and spaciousness in recent years, and if you don’t want a big car for carrying the kids from A to B, the VW Polo is a great choice. It provides a sophisticated, practical and comfortable ride without compromising on aesthetics. It’s a sporty looking small family car with a large boot. The latest model, which has been around since 2017, boasts a 351-litre boot - providing plenty of room for a pushchair and a full weekly shop. The rear space is also generous, there’s a decent amount of leg room and plenty of space for three kids. Adding to its practicality, the latest mode is only available as a five-door. A five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2017, and an 85 per cent score for child occupant protection makes it a great option if you’re looking for a small family car.

Honda Jazz

The Honda Jazz might not turn heads on the street when you drive by, but if you’re looking for a roomy and affordable small family car, you should consider this Japanese hatchback. Space and practicality are the Jazz’s forte, making it a great option for a family. The cabin is a lot more spacious than you’d expect, offering a serious amount of room in the rear seats, and it has a large 354-litre boot. Its back seats can also be folded down flat in case more boot space is needed. Even with two young children you won’t struggle for room – plus, the space makes it easy to reach across when helping a child into their car seat. The third-generation Jazz also has a five-star safety rating, including an 85 per cent ranking for child occupant protection.

Renault Zoe