Best Electric Cars for Families to Lease in 2025

Electric vehicles (EVs) are experiencing a surge in popularity across the UK, particularly among families seeking sustainable and cost-effective transportation. In 2024, the UK saw a 21.4% increase in electric vehicle registrations, solidifying its position as Europe's largest market for EVs. This growth is supported by the government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires 80% of new cars sold to be zero emission by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2035.

In this blog, we will delve into the numerous benefits of electric vehicle personal leasing for families, including environmental advantages, lower running costs and enhanced driving experiences. We'll also discuss key considerations families should research to ensure an EV meets their specific needs, such as range, charging infrastructure and vehicle size.

We will then highlight our top picks for the best electric cars for families to lease in 2025, helping you make an informed and confident decision.

Benefits of electric family cars

Electric vehicles for families offer numerous advantages over traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models. From lower running costs and reduced environmental impact to quieter rides and advanced technology, EVs provide a smarter, more sustainable choice for modern living. Let’s explore how these benefits make electric vehicles the conscientious choice.

Environmental advantages

By running on electricity instead of fossil fuels, electric cars provide significant environmental advantages, making them a sustainable alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, drastically reducing carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions and helping to combat climate change.

Also, EVs operate much more quietly than traditional vehicles, reducing noise pollution and creating calmer, more liveable urban environments. Their widespread adoption can lead to noticeably improved air quality, particularly in congested areas, benefitting public health and making cities cleaner and healthier places for families to live and thrive.

Economic benefits

There are significant economic benefits to choosing an electric car, making them a smart financial choice for families. With electricity being far cheaper than petrol or diesel, EVs help families save on fuel expenses and even maintenance costs, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts.

Families may also benefit from government incentives and grants, such as reduced road taxes, financial support for home chargers or simply avoiding congestion and ULEZ tariffs. When researching the best electric cars for families, you should consider car leasing as this further minimises costs by spreading payments and avoiding depreciation worries, and you can choose from MPVs, Estates or even 7-seaters.

Technological features

Electric cars are packed with advanced technological features that make them ideal for families. Many models include state-of-the-art safety and driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking, ensuring safer journeys for everyone.

EVs also integrate seamlessly with smart devices, allowing families to manage vehicle settings, monitor charging and plan routes using intuitive mobile applications, and access features like voice control, over-the-air updates and built-in entertainment systems to add convenience and connectivity to daily drives.

Key considerations when choosing an electric family car

The best electric car for families depends on your individual needs, and various factors should be considered to ensure the model suits you and your family’s lifestyle. From vehicle size and range to charging options and budget, understanding these elements is crucial.

Driving range

The driving range of an electric vehicle is a key factor for families to consider when choosing the right EV as it determines how far the car can travel on a single charge, directly impacting convenience and usability for daily commutes, school runs and road trips.

Understanding your typical driving habits and access to charging infrastructure ensures the EV meets your needs without causing range anxiety. Families with longer travel needs or limited access to charging stations should prioritise models with extended ranges to avoid frequent charging stops, providing peace of mind and enhancing the overall driving experience.

Charging infrastructure

Charging infrastructure is a vital consideration when selecting the best family EV for you. Installing a home charger provides convenient overnight charging and minimises dependency on public stations, making it essential to assess whether your property is suitable for one.

For families without home charging, proximity to public charging stations is critical. Access to rapid chargers is equally important for longer trips, ensuring minimal downtime during journeys.

Researching the availability, speed and cost of nearby chargers ensures your EV aligns with your lifestyle, providing seamless and stress-free charging options for daily commutes, school runs and family adventures.

Interior space and comfort

Interior space and comfort are key factors when selecting an EV for your family, as sufficient seating capacity and flexibility, such as adjustable or foldable seats, are the difference between comfortable accommodation and frustrated children. A spacious boot and smart storage solutions are essential for carrying school bags, groceries, holiday luggage or sports equipment.

Families with young children should also consider room for car seats and easy access to rear seating. By prioritising comfort, configuration and storage, you can choose an EV that meets your family’s practical needs while providing a relaxed and enjoyable travel experience for all.

Top electric family cars in the UK

With so many electric vehicles available, finding the ideal one for your family can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve curated a list of the best electric cars for families in the UK that excel in practicality, comfort and advanced features, making them ideal choices for modern, eco-conscious households.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out as a perfect family car, combining futuristic technology with a distinctive retro-inspired design. Its spacious interior, with ample legroom and flexible seating, ensures comfort for passengers and practicality for family life. Equipped with advanced features like a large touchscreen, augmented reality heads-up display and comprehensive driver-assistance systems, it offers cutting-edge convenience and safety.

Powered by an electric motor delivering up to 305 PS (horsepower) and a range of 315 miles (WLTP – Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure), it balances performance with efficiency. The Ioniq 5 also supports rapid charging, achieving an 80% charge in just 18 minutes, ideal for busy families.

Kia EV6

Blending polished, futuristic styling with impressive functionality, the Kia EV6 is an ideal family car. Its spacious cabin ensures comfort, while the ergonomic layout and advanced tech create a driver-friendly environment. The EV6’s engaging driving dynamics, with sharp handling and a smooth ride, make it enjoyable for daily commutes and family trips.

Delivering up to 321 miles of range (WLTP) and a robust output of up to 325 PS in the dual-motor variant, it excels in performance and efficiency. Battery recharging up to 80%, takes just 18 minutes.

Škoda Enyaq

The Škoda Enyaq is an excellent choice for families, offering practicality and comfort in a stylish package. Its spacious interior is thoughtfully designed, with room for everyone and a class-leading boot capacity of 585 litres, perfect for luggage, prams or sports gear. The user-friendly infotainment system, featuring a large central touchscreen and smart connectivity, keeps the whole family entertained and informed, while comfort features like heated seats and a quiet cabin enhance long drives.

With a range of up to 339 miles (WLTP) and smooth, efficient performance, the Enyaq provides a reliable and enjoyable driving experience for modern family life. The Škoda Enyaq takes 35 minutes to charge to 80%.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an exceptional family car, blending iconic branding with cutting-edge electric performance. Its modern design houses a spacious interior with ample room for passengers and a 402-litre boot, perfect for family needs. Advanced technology, including a 15.5-inch touchscreen and Ford’s SYNC 4A system, keeps everyone connected and entertained

Offering up to 372 miles of range (WLTP), the Mach-E delivers up to 351 PS and accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 4.4 seconds (GT model). Rapid charging capabilities allow it to regain 73 miles in just 10 minutes with a 150kW DC fast charger.

Volkswagen ID 4

Offering balanced performance and exceptional practicality, the Volkswagen ID.4 is an outstanding family car, with a spacious interior, plenty of legroom and a 543-litre boot, perfect for family life. Designed with safety in mind, the ID.4 includes advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane assist and emergency braking for peace of mind.

The electric motor delivers up to 204 PS and a range of 321 miles (WLTP), ensuring smooth and efficient drives. Rapid charging restores up to 199 miles in just 30 minutes with a 125kW DC charger, making the ID.4 a convenient choice.

BYD Seal U

The BYD Seal U is an excellent family car, offering a blend of practicality, performance and advanced technology. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates five passengers, with a generous 552-litre boot for all your family's needs. The Seal U comes in two variants: the Comfort model features a 71.8 kWh battery, providing up to 420 km (261 miles) of range, while the Design model boasts an 87 kWh battery, extending the range to 500 km (310 miles).

Advanced safety features and a user-friendly infotainment system further enhance its appeal, making the BYD Seal U a compelling choice for modern families seeking a reliable and versatile electric SUV.

Kia EV9

The Kia EV9 is a standout electric car for families, offering a spacious, modern design with three rows of seating and advanced safety features. Its cutting-edge technology, including a high-tech infotainment system and innovative driver assistance systems, ensures convenience and peace of mind for every journey.

Powered by a dual-motor setup, the EV9 delivers excellent performance with a range of up to 300 miles, a swift 0–62mph time of 5.3 seconds and robust power for daily needs. Its generous boot space, perfect for family adventures, further cements its position as an ideal electric SUV for practical and efficient driving.

Tesla Model Y

With its futuristic design and family-focused practicality, the Tesla Model Y is built for modern lifestyles. Its spacious cabin offers a comfortable ride for passengers, while advanced Autopilot and safety features provide confidence on the road. The inclusion of innovative tech like Tesla’s seamless software updates ensures it stays ahead of the curve.

The Model Y excels in both power and utility. Its long range of up to 384 miles means fewer charging stops, while the Performance variant rockets from 0–62mph in just 3.5 seconds. Practicality shines with a generous boot and a front trunk, offering plenty of room for family gear.

Volkswagen ID 3

The Volkswagen ID.3 redefines practicality for families, offering a compact yet spacious design ideal for urban and suburban living. Its intuitive controls, advanced driver-assistance systems and eco-friendly ethos make it an excellent choice for parents seeking a reliable, sustainable vehicle that doesn’t compromise on comfort or style.

The ID.3 delivers smooth, efficient performance with a range of up to 340 miles, making it perfect for both daily commutes and family getaways. It accelerates from 0–62mph in 7.3 seconds, offering responsive driving, while its 385-litre boot ensures there’s plenty of room for shopping or luggage.

Comparative analysis of featured models

Now that we’ve highlighted our recommendations of best electric cars for families, it’s time to compare them directly. In this section, we’ll evaluate performance and storage metrics, including acceleration, top speed, handling, comfort and boot space to help you decide which of these outstanding models is the perfect fit for your family’s needs.

Performance and storage metrics

Acceleration and top speed comparisons based on top-spec models:

• Hyundai Ioniq 5 - 0-62 mph = 3.4 seconds, top speed = 162 mph, boot space = 527 L
• Kia EV6 - 0-62 mph = 3.5 seconds, top speed = 162 mph, Boot space = 527 L
• Škoda Enyaq - 0-62 mph = 5.5 seconds, top speed = 111 mph, Boot space = 585 L
• Ford Mustang Mach-E - 0-62 mph = 4.4 seconds, top speed = 124 mph, Boot space = 402 L
• Volkswagen ID 4 - 0-62 mph = 5.4 seconds, top speed = 112 mph, Boot space = 543 L
• BYD Seal U - 0-62 mph = 5.9 seconds, top speed = 112 mph, Boot space = 425 L
• Tesla Model Y - 0-62 mph = 3.7 seconds, top speed = 155 mph, Boot space = 854 L
• Kia EV9 - 0-62 mph = 5.3 seconds, top speed = 124 mph, Boot space = 333 L
• Volkswagen ID3 - 0-62 mph = 7.4 seconds, top speed = 99 mph, Boot space = 385 L

Handling and ride comfort assessments:

• Hyundai Ioniq 5
  Handling: 4/5 - Light and easy to steer. Great option for city driving and everyday driving needs.
  Ride comfort: 4/5 - Smooth, handles bumps well and feels quiet. Comfortable and spacious interior for driver and passengers.
  
  
• Kia EV6
  Handling: 4/5 - 4.5/5 - Sportier and more responsive than the Ioniq 5, with good grip in corners.
  Ride comfort: 4/5 - Slightly firmer than the Ioniq 5, but still comfortable. The seats are supportive and it’s quiet on the road.
  
  
• Škoda Enyaq
  Handling: 4/5 - Steady and reliable, easy to drive.
  Ride comfort: 4.5/5 - Very comfortable, even on bumpy roads. Great for families and long trips.
  
  
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
  Handling: 4.5/5 - Fun and sporty, with sharp steering.
  Ride comfort: 3.5/5 - Feels more focused on performance than comfort.
  
  
• Volkswagen ID 4
  Handling: 4/5 - Simple and predictable to drive, very steady.
  Ride comfort: 4.5/5 - Smooth and refined. It handles bumps well and feels solid on the road.
  
  
• BYD Seal U
  Handling: 4/5 - Quick and responsive, feels confident on the road.
  Ride comfort: 4.5/5 - Very comfortable and well-insulated from road noise.
  
  
• Tesla Model Y
  Handling: 4.5/5 - Light and responsive, easy to manoeuvre despite its size. Grips well in corners and feels stable on motorways.
  Ride comfort: 4/5 - Firm but well-balanced. Cabin is quiet, and the seats are supportive for long drives.
  
  
• Kia EV9
  Handling: 4/5 - Solid, with light but accurate steering. Not sporty, but very stable and easy to drive.
  Ride comfort: 5/5 - Very comfortable with a smooth ride. The suspension is well-tuned for family trips, and the cabin is quiet and spacious with space for 7 passengers.
  
  
• Volkswagen ID3
  Handling: 4/5 - Light and nimble, great for city driving. Feels agile and is fun to drive.
  Ride comfort: 4/5 - Smooth and well-cushioned. Handles bumps nicely, with a quiet cabin at lower speeds.

Practicality and Suitability:

• Hyundai Ioniq 5
  Practical points: Offers plenty of interior space, especially up front. The rear seats fold flat, giving you a large, practical boot for everyday use. The fast-charging capability is a real bonus for long-distance driving.
  Suitability: Ideal for city dwellers and tech-savvy drivers looking for a stylish, comfortable, and practical EV.
  
  
• Kia EV6
  Practical points: Offers spacious boot and rear seats, with adjustable features to maximise cargo space. It’s great for families and long journeys thanks to its fast-charging ability and solid range.
  Suitability: Perfect for drivers who want a sport, practical EV with a focus on performance but still need space for family use.
  
  
• Škoda Enyaq
  Practical points: Generous boot space, cabin is airy with plenty of room for passengers. It’s well-equipped with tech features and offers a decent driving range.
  Suitability: Families seeking a practical, comfortable EV with plenty of room for both passengers and luggage.
  
  
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
  Practical points: Although it’s performance-focused, it still offers a decent boot space and a practical cabin. The driving range is also strong, especially in the extended-range versions.
  Suitability: Enthusiasts who want a performance-driven EV with everyday usability and some practicality for family and road trips.
  
  
• Volkswagen ID 4
  Practical points:Offers good boot space, ample room for passengers, and a high driving position. The cabin is well-equipped for comfort and convenience
  Suitability: Families looking for a reliable, comfortable electric SUV with good range and tech features.
  
  
• BYD Seal UPractical points: Offers impressive cabin space and a decent boot. It’s a solid option for those who need both comfort and practicality in an EV.
  Suitability: Drivers who want a comfortable, roomy electric car with a high level of tech and a solid driving experience.
  
  
• Tesla Model Y
  Practical points: Spacious cabin and generous boot with a second-row fold-flat feature for larger loads. It also offers excellent range and fast charging.
  Suitability: Perfect for tech enthusiasts, city drivers and families who need space and performance without compromising on practicality.
  
  
• Kia EV9
  practical points: 3-row SUV, offers the largest cabin space, making it great for larger families. The boot and cabin are very flexible, with ample space for luggage.
  Suitability: Those needing a spacious EV with plenty of seating and cargo space for longer trips.
  
  
• Volkswagen ID 3
  Practical points:It’s compact but surprisingly spacious inside. It offers good boot space and rear-seat room for passengers. It’s a great city car with decent range.
  Suitability: City / urban drivers looking for a compact, practical EV with a focus on everyday usability.

Future trends in electric family vehicles

Upcoming models and innovations

Electric car models to look for in 2025 which will be ideal for families, include the Volkswagen ID.2all, the Renault 5 E-Tech, the Kia EV3, the Citroen e-C3 and the Dacia Spring.

Tech advancements in 2025 include improved battery technology, such as solid-state batteries offering higher energy density, faster charging and enhanced safety. Driving ranges are increasing, with many EVs exceeding 400 miles on a single charge. New tech also includes bidirectional charging, enabling vehicles to power homes or the grid, and enhanced autonomous driving systems with better sensor integration.

Government policies and market dynamics

The UK government’s policies are driving rapid EV adoption, with initiatives like the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requiring 80% of new cars to be zero-emission by 2030 and 100% by 2035. Incentives such as grants for home chargers and exemptions from congestion charges encourage consumers to switch to electric vehicles.

These policies, combined with rising fuel prices and environmental awareness, have shifted consumer preferences towards EVs. The market has seen significant growth, with electric vehicle registrations rising by 21.4% in 2024. As charging infrastructure expands and technology advances, EVs are becoming increasingly appealing and accessible to UK families.

Find your ideal family electric car

So, now you know all the benefits of owning an electric car, from environmental sustainability and cost savings to advanced technology, safety and comfort, but how about even more benefits by opting for leasing? With leasing your car, you can choose from the latest models for a much lower cost, don’t have to worry about maintenance or depreciation and, when your current lease ends, can select a brand-new model with terms to suit you.

Time to find the best family EV for you by considering your unique needs, including range, charging options, space and features, and then checking out the great selection of EVs at Gateway2Lease. We hope this guide has given you the information to help choose an EV that complements your lifestyle and drives your family’s future forward.