Guide: Which Electric Family Car to Choose?

Are monospaces disappearing? Don’t panic, here is a selection of four electric cars, from station wagon to SUV to microvan.

Although still heavily attached to combustion engines, family cars are not immune to electric propulsion. The proof is this selection of four models with very different profiles.

Easy-priced electric station wagon: MG5 Extended Range

While awaiting the arrival of the Opel Astra-e and the Peugeot e-308, the MG5 is the only « mainstream » electric wagon on the market. This Chinese-origin model is particularly well priced, but lacks personality, especially on the outside. In terms of practicality, the MG5 scores well with its large 479-liter trunk and good interior space. However, its modularity isn’t a strong point, as the fixed seat prevents a flat floor when the rear bench is folded down.

With its 61.1 kWh battery and a range of 400 km, the MG5 « Extended Range » is more versatile than the « Standard Range » version (50.3 kWh and 320 km of range). The electric motor of 156 hp offers lively performance (0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds). The MG5 also has a final argument: its 7-year or 150,000 km warranty, battery included.

The microvan expert: Citroën ë-Berlingo

Though derived from utility models, microvans are perfectly capable of meeting the requirements of private individuals. A flagship model of the segment, the Citroën Berlingo offers a choice between 2 body styles: M and XL, measuring respectively 4.4 and 4.8 meters long. It can accommodate up to 7 passengers, in a modular interior with numerous storage compartments. The presence of the battery does not encroach on the trunk volume, which reaches 1050 liters under the shelf on the long version.

The Citroën microvan delivers 136 hp and is fairly agile. Unfortunately, it has a somewhat limited range (285 km in WLTP mixed cycle for the M version). The 50 kWh battery is a bit light considering the vehicle’s size and weight (from 1664 to 1801 kg depending on the version). However, the Renault Kangoo electric rival doesn’t do better. The reduced fast-charging time (80% in 30 minutes on a 100 kW charger) partially mitigates this issue.

The high-range family SUV: Skoda Enyaq iV 80

Despite its significant size (4.6 meters long), the Skoda Enyaq is only available in a 5-seater version. Its interior space is decent, making it suitable for comfortable family trips. The large 585-liter trunk (1710 liters with the rear seat folded) and numerous storage compartments favor the Czech SUV. A small but handy detail: a fold-up umbrella stored in the driver’s side front door.

Among all the available versions, the Enyaq 80 (with an 82 kWh battery) offers the most reasonable compromise. With an estimated WLTP cycle range of 544 km, it is more versatile than the base Enyaq 60 (62 kWh battery). The 80X and even more the RS are more expensive and prioritize performance over range. It also competes with the Volkswagen ID.4 and even the Audi Q4 e-tron. Considering its high weight, the 204 hp of the Enyaq 80 perform respectably, as shown by its 8.5-second acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h.

The large family electric vehicle: Peugeot e-Traveller 75 kWh

Whether in long or standard version, the Peugeot e-Traveller is a family-oriented vehicle (up to 5.3 meters long). It derives from the e-Expert utility vehicle. The interior can seat 8 people, and sliding side doors facilitate access to the rear. The dashboard, rather basic, struggles to hide its utilitarian origins. In this regard, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is more charming. Nonetheless, the equipment includes all essential features: air conditioning, a 7” touchscreen, cruise control with speed limiter, etc.

In its base configuration, the e-Traveller has a 50 kWh battery, which is modest for its size. Its range is limited to 230 km (WLTP mixed cycle). Although it requires a significant financial outlay (+6,000 euros), the 75 kWh battery is a wiser choice, boosting the range to 330 km. Though still relatively low, it is better suited to short trips on secondary roads.

Also read: Buying Guide: Which compact electric car to choose?