Best EVs For Car Seats And Children
Your EV needs to suit your lifestyle - in terms of performance (of course), but also in terms of space and functionality. If you have a growing family or are looking to have one, you’ll probably be looking for a car that is well sutied for young children in terms of thoughtful design, easy access and reliable safety features. You want a car that will make your life easier with a child, not harder!
As electric vehicles continue to evolve, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on family-friendly features that make life easier for parents. In this blog, we will explore the best EVs for car seats and children, considering all of the most crucial factors like ISOFIX accessibility, door opening width, and child-specific safety features.
What To Look For: Small Children & EVs
It seems obvious, but parents of young children need more than just a spacious car. The ideal family EV combines practical design with smart features that simplify parenting duties. Look for wide-opening doors and elevated seating positions that reduce back strain when securing children in car seats. A lot of storage is essential - it’s important to consider whether the boot can accommodate your pram while leaving room for shopping bags and other essentials.
Convenient features like a hands-free boot prove invaluable when juggling children and bags, while built-in sunshades and independent rear climate controls help maintain comfort on long journeys. Many EVs now offer cabin pre-conditioning, letting you cool or warm the interior before entering - particularly useful for early morning nursery runs or hot summer days. Anything to make your life easier!
What Is The Euro NCAP?
We’ll be referring to the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) throughout this blog post, but what is it? The NCAP is an independent safety organisation that tests new cars and rates them from one to five stars. These ratings help buyers understand how well vehicles protect occupants, pedestrians, and cyclists, while also evaluating their safety technology. The higher the star rating, the safer the car.
Kia EV9: Ultimate Child Seat Flexibility
The Kia EV9 sets new standards for child-friendly electric vehicles. Its four ISOFIX points (two pairs) are split between the second and third rows, offering flexibility for securing child seats. The extra-wide door openings and elevating seating position make car seat installation straightforward. The middle-row slides provide extra access to the third row even when car seats are installed - which is great!
Kia EV9 Overview
| Kia EV9 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 828L / 1,650L |
| Battery Configuration | 76.1-99.8 kWh |
| Range | 349 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 7 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes (all rows) |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes (all rows) |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £705 per month |
Key Child-Friendly Features
One-touch sliding second row for third-row access even with car seats installed,
Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin for entertainment devices,
Advanced air filtration system for cleaner cabin air,
Rear occupant alert system to prevent accidentally leaving children in the car,
Individual climate controls for all three rows,
Built-in sunshades for rear passengers.
The Kia EV9 stands out as an exceptional choice for families with young children thanks to its combination of thoughtful features - from its generous 828 litres of boot space that easily accommodates multiple prams and baby gear, to its practical wide-opening doors and flexible seating system that makes installing car seats and accessing the third row easy. With individual climate controls for all rows, advanced air filtration, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the EV9 demonstrates a deep understanding of what parents need in their daily drives.
Tesla Model Y: Tech-Smart Family Solution
It’s no surprise that the Tesla Model Y is next on this list because it combines clever storage solutions with family-friendly technology.
Its dual-boot design is particularly useful for parents - the front boot is perfect for storing emergency supplies or wet weather gear, while the main boot easily accommodates bulky prams. The automatic opening doors feature sensors to prevent little fingers from getting caught, and the high seating position gives children a great view while making car seat installation easier for parents.
Tesla Model Y Overview
| Tesla Model Y | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 554L / 2,158L |
| Battery Configuration | 60-81kWh |
| Range | 353 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £504 per month |
Key Child-Friendly Features
'Dog Mode' which can be repurposed as 'Baby Mode' to maintain cabin temperature while briefly parked,
Advanced air filtration system with Bioweapon Defense Mode,
Entertainment system perfect for keeping children occupied during charging stops,
Flat floor design makes it easier to reach across to help children,
Remote cabin pre-conditioning via smartphone app,
Customisable child locks and speed limits for teenage drivers.
The Model Y's party trick for parents is its ability to pre-condition the cabin temperature before you even reach the car - particularly valuable for early morning nursery runs or hot summer afternoons. While its boot space might seem smaller than some competitors at first glance, the additional front trunk and incredibly spacious 2,158 litres of capacity with seats folded make it one of the most practical EVs for growing families, especially those who need flexibility in their storage arrangements.
Volvo EX90: Safety-Driven Family Luxury
The Volvo EX90 exemplifies the brand's commitment to family safety with features specifically designed for parents with young children. Each door is power-assisted and opens wide enough to make car seat installation straightforward, while the elevated seating position provides excellent visibility for both parents and children. The interior has been thoughtfully designed with durable, easy-clean materials that stand up to the inevitable spills and crumbs that come with young children!
Volvo EX90 Overview
| Volvo EX90 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 655L / 1,515L |
| Battery Configuration | 110 kWh |
| Range | 310 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 7 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes (all rows) |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £1,059 per month |
Key Child-Friendly Features
An advanced interior radar system that can detect sleeping children left in the car,
Built-in booster cushions in the second row,
Rear-facing camera to monitor children while driving,
HEPA air filtration system for cleaner cabin air,
Individual climate zones with rear controls,
Integrated sun blinds in rear doors,
Extra storage compartments designed for family essentials.
While the EX90's monthly salary sacrifice cost of £1,059 positions it at the premium end of the market, it offers unmatched peace of mind for safety-conscious parents. The combination of advanced safety technology, practical family features, and generous space makes it an excellent choice for those who can accommodate the higher monthly payments through salary sacrifice.
Skoda Enyaq iV: Practical Family Value
The Skoda Enyaq iV brings the brand's famous 'Simply Clever' features to the electric family car segment. For parents juggling children and everything that comes with them, thoughtful touches like an umbrella in the door, a removable boot light that doubles as a torch, and an ice scraper in the boot make daily life easier. The boot's low-loading lip is particularly helpful when lifting heavy prams or shopping, while the spacious interior provides plenty of room for car seats without compromising front passenger comfort.
Skoda Enyaq iV Overview
| Skoda Enyaq iV | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 585L / 1,710L |
| Battery Configuration | 62 - 80kWh |
| Range | 232-348 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £545 per month |
Child-Friendly Features
'Simply Clever' features like integrated door protectors to prevent car park dings,
Dedicated phone pockets on front seat backs for rear entertainment,
Easy-clean leather-like upholstery options,
Integrated window blinds,
Multiple storage solutions throughout the cabin,
Sleep package option with special headrests and blankets,
Available third climate zone for rear passengers.
The Enyaq iV stands out for making premium family-friendly features accessible at a more affordable price point, with monthly salary sacrifice payments starting from £545. Its combination of practical design, generous space, and clever features makes it an excellent choice for families seeking value without compromising on quality or convenience.
Hyundai Ioniq 5: For The Modern Family
The IONIQ 5 reimagines the family car with its innovative design and clever use of space. The flat floor and sliding centre console create a living room-like atmosphere, particularly useful when tending to children during charging stops. Its ultra-fast charging capability (10-80% in just 18 minutes) is a game-changer for parents who need to minimize stops during long journeys with restless children, while the spacious interior offers plenty of room for car seats and associated gear.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Overview
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 527L / 1,587L |
| Battery Configuration | 63 - 84kWh |
| Range | 238-354 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £430 per month |
Child-Friendly Features:
Sliding centre console that can be moved for easy access to children,
Reclining 'relaxation' seats perfect for feeding stops,
Vehicle-to-Load function to power devices or even a baby bottle warmer,
Advanced air purification system,
Retractable sunshades,
USB ports throughout the cabin,
Remote Smart Parking Assist for tight parking spots with car seats installed.
At £430 per month through salary sacrifice at The Electric Car Scheme, the IONIQ 5 offers excellent value for families seeking a modern, practical EV. Its combination of innovative features, rapid charging, and family-friendly design makes it particularly appealing for tech-savvy parents who want something different from the traditional family car format.
Volkswagen ID.4: Family-Friendly Engineering
The Volkswagen ID.4 brings German practicality to the electric family car segment. Its well-thought-out interior makes perfect sense for parents, with easy-clean surfaces and plenty of storage spaces for everyday family items. The elevated seating position provides good visibility for both parents and children, while the flat floor design creates extra space around car seats for easier buckling and unbuckling of little ones.
Volkswagen ID.4 Overview
| Volkswagen ID.4 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 545L / 1,575L |
| Battery Configuration | 63 - 84kWh |
| Range | 245-318 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £443 per month |
Child-Friendly Features
Voice control system for hands-free operation while attending to children,
'Car-Net' app for remote climate control and vehicle monitoring,
Spacious rear doors for easy car seat access,
Multiple USB-C ports for device charging,
Adjustable boot floor height,
Optional panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade,
IQ.Light LED matrix headlights for safer night driving with precious cargo.
The ID.4 hits a sweet spot between premium features and affordability. Its combination of solid build quality, practical design, and comprehensive safety features makes it an excellent choice for families who appreciate Volkswagen's reputation for reliability and want a no-nonsense approach to family transport.
Mercedes EQB: Premium Practicality
The Mercedes EQB brings premium quality to the family EV segment with a focus on versatility and comfort. As one of the few electric seven-seaters in its class, it offers flexibility for growing families or those who occasionally need extra seats. The boxy design isn't just for looks - it creates excellent headroom and makes installing car seats easier, while the straight roofline means even tall rear passengers (or parents leaning in to secure children) won't bump their heads.
Mercedes EQB Overview
| Mercedes EQB | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 520L / 1,675L |
| Battery Configuration | 70.5 kWh |
| Range | 321 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 7 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes (multi-zone) |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £548 per month |
Child-Friendly Features
Seven-seat configuration with easy third-row access,
MBUX infotainment with specific child-comfort settings,
'Hey Mercedes' voice control for hands-free operation,
Multiple USB-C ports throughout the cabin,
Air purification system with HEPA filter,
Individual climate zones,
Electric child locks are controllable from the driver's seat,
Animated interior lighting that can entertain young passengers.
The Mercedes EQB has a great combination of luxury features, along with its practical design, and the prestige of the Mercedes brand makes it an attractive option for families who want a more upmarket family vehicle without compromising on practicality. The ability to occasionally seat seven passengers while maintaining a relatively compact footprint makes it particularly suitable for urban families who sometimes need extra capacity.
BMW iX3: A Sportier Alternative
The BMW iX3 proves that having children doesn't mean giving up on driving pleasure. It combines BMW's renowned driving dynamics with thoughtful family features, making it ideal for parents who still enjoy an engaging drive. The elevated SUV stance helps with car seat installation, while the boot's square shape and low loading lip make it easier to manage strollers and shopping bags.
BMW iX3 Overview
| BMW iX3 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 510L / 1,560L |
| Battery Configuration | 80 kWh |
| Range | 285-292 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes (3-zone) |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | NA |
Child-Friendly Features:
Acoustic glass for a quieter cabin - perfect for napping children,
BMW Digital Key Plus for hands-free access when carrying children,
Extended ambient lighting with customizable colours,
Active Driving Assistant Professional for enhanced safety,
Automatic climate control with 3-zone settings,
Sun protection glazing to protect sensitive skin,
Storage nets and tie-down points in the boot,
Wireless phone charging and multiple USB ports.
The iX3 is naturally placed in the premium segment, it offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality. It's particularly suited to families who want their family car to deliver both driver engagement and practical features, though the five-seat-only configuration might limit its appeal for larger families.
BYD Atto 3: Affordable Family EV
The BYD Atto 3 brings fresh thinking to the family EV segment with its combination of practicality and value. While it might be a newer name to many UK families, it impresses with its thoughtful design and family-friendly features. The elevated seating position and wide-opening doors make installing car seats straightforward, while the flat floor design creates extra space for feet and storage.
BYD Atto 3 Overview
| BYD Atto 3 | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 440L / 1,338L |
| Battery Configuration | 49.92-60.48 kWh |
| Range | 260 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £371 per month |
Child-Friendly Features:
Multi-colour ambient lighting that can entertain young passengers,
High-quality air filtration system with PM2.5 filter,
Rotation-capable centre display for entertainment during stops,
Easy-clean synthetic leather seats,
Multiple storage solutions throughout the cabin,
Panoramic sunroof with electric shade,
USB ports for all passengers,
A card key for easy access when hands are full.
At £371 per month through salary sacrifice, the Atto 3 represents excellent value for families looking to switch to electric. While it may not have the brand recognition of some competitors, its combination of practical features, solid safety credentials, and competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious families who don't want to compromise on features or quality.
Audi Q4 e-tron: An Elegant Option
The Audi Q4 e-tron brings the brand's signature quality and refinement to the family EV segment. Its clever packaging maximises interior space despite its compact exterior dimensions, making it ideal for urban families. The elevated driving position and generous door apertures make both car seat installation and helping children in and out of the car notably easier, while the premium interior materials are designed to withstand daily family life.
| Audi Q4 e-tron | |
|---|---|
| Boot Space (Seats Up / Seats Down) | 520L / 1,490L |
| Battery Configuration | 76.6-80 kWh |
| Range | 316-342 miles |
| ISOFIX Points | 4 |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Safety Rating | 5* Euro NCAP |
| Rear Climate Control | Yes (3-zone) |
| Cabin Pre-Conditioning | Yes |
| Approx Salary Sacrifice Cost £60,000 Salary | £571 per month |
Child-Friendly Features:
Audi Virtual Cockpit with specific family-focused displays,
Advanced air filtration system,
Augmented reality head-up display for safer navigation,
Multiple storage compartments designed for family use,
Acoustic glass for a quieter cabin environment,
Power tailgate with hands-free operation,
Rear door sunblinds,
ISOFIX points in the front passenger seat (optional).
With monthly salary sacrifice payments starting from £571, the Q4 e-tron sits in the premium segment of the market. However, its blend of practicality, premium features, and typical Audi build quality makes it an appealing choice for families who want a sophisticated family car that doesn't compromise on child-friendly features. The combination of generous boot space and compact exterior dimensions makes it particularly suitable for families who need to navigate tight urban environments while still carrying all the essentials that come with family life.
Last updated: 20.02.24
Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.
