key facts
- All children under 150 cm or 36 kg must use a child restraint (RSA).
- Since September 2024, only R129 (i-Size) child seats can be sold in the EU (RSA).
- Euro NCAP ratings are valid for up to six years from when they are awarded.
- Motor tax ranges from €120 (electric) to €280 for 151–160 g/km for most family cars.
- From 1 January 2027, VRT rises by 1% for cars above 80 g/km CO2 (Budget 2027).
matching car type to family
start with your needs
| family | consider | key check |
|---|---|---|
| couple, one young child | hatchback or small crossover | buggy fits in the boot with the parcel shelf in |
| two children | crossover or compact SUV | two child seats plus an adult in the back |
| three children or regular extra passengers | large SUV or 7-seater | three across, or a usable third row |
| dog, sports gear or camping | estate, SUV or 7-seater with 5 seats in use | boot length and a low load lip |
things to consider
boot space and child seats
- compare boot volume with the rear seats up, and check whether it is quoted in litres or VDA dm³.
- bring your buggy: shape matters as much as volume.
- count ISOFIX points and test three seats across if you need them; the RSA says there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
- check rear door opening width and height for lifting children in.
safety ratings
Euro NCAP rates new cars on crash protection and crash-avoidance technology. A rating is valid for up to six years, and the test has become tougher over time, so comparing ratings from different years is only meaningful if the test changed little. Look for automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and good child-occupant protection.
running costs over the years you'll own it
Over five years, running costs can match the purchase price. Compare:
- Fuel or charging: every 1 l/100km saved is worth about €280 a year over 15,000 km at September 2026 petrol prices.
- Motor tax: set by CO2, from €120 for an electric car to €270 for 141–150 g/km.
- Insurance: get quotes on the exact version.
- Finance: compare the total amount payable
A family test-drive checklist
- bring the children, their seats and your buggy, and fit everything yourself
- lLoad the boot as you would on a Saturday: buggy, shopping, sports bag.
- sit behind your own driving position to check rear legroom.
- check visibility over the shoulder and how easy the car is to park.
- try the infotainment, phone connection and rear USB sockets the children will use.
- drive on roads you use every day, including a motorway stretch if you commute.
new or nearly new?
A nearly new car avoids the steepest early depreciation, but a new car brings a full warranty and the latest safety equipment, and finance offers can narrow the gap. Whichever you choose, check history and warranty carefully
| model | best for | boot (seats up to) | price from |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandero | couples and young families | up to 410 L | €18,890 |
| Stepway | €20,690 | ||
| Duster | Families wanting an SUV, optional 4x4 | Up to 594 L (mild hybrid 140) | €25,990 |
| Jogger | Larger families; 5 or 7 seats | 829 L (5-seat); 212 L with 7 seats up | €26,990 |
| Bigster | Families needing the most space | Up to 702 L (mild hybrid 140) | €29,990 |
Source: dacia.ie range and dimensions pages; boot figures in litres.
