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You may have heard people refer to some kinds of cars as MPVs. These vehicles are typically large and are preferred by anyone looking to transport multiple people at the same time. But what is an MPV, and what are the most important factors to consider when choosing one?
MPVs, also known as people carriers, refer to large hatchbacks with seats for about five to seven people. These cars prioritise space and versatility, making them suitable for families. Although the popularity of MPVs has waned in recent years due to the introduction of some spacious SUV models, there are still some excellent MPV vehicles to consider.
MPV stands for ‘multi-purpose vehicle’. These cars are usually large and tend to have more interior space than hatchbacks. Due to the extra space, MPV cars are great for families. In its basic sense, an MPV is like a van with windows, but instead of empty space, it has several seats. Popular examples include the Ford Galaxy, Citroën Berlingo and the Vauxhall Zafira.
Renault popularised the production and use of MPVs with the release of several large people carriers between the 1980s and 1990s.
MPV Vs SUV
If you need a car capable of carrying people and cargo, you ideally have two options – multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) and sports utility vehicles (SUVs). Modern-day SUVs and MPVs are a bit similar, so a few people may mistake one for another. However, there are quite a few differences between the two vehicles.
MPV Features
Spacious boots and flexible interiors are characteristic of multi-purpose vehicles. Although the design of this vehicle has been modified over time to improve driving quality, the basic features haven’t changed. MPVs have configurable seats that you can flip, stow or fold depending on your needs at the time. Here we’ll discuss some of the features of the people carrier.
Seating
Multi-purpose vehicles are classified into two types based on the number of seats they have. First up, there are five-seater MPVs, which are designed like conventional hatchbacks. However, they have taller bodies and more space. A versatile people carrier like the Ford C Max comes with three full-size rear seats, which have ISOFIX points and adjustable backrests. You can adjust the backrests to switch between more legroom and luggage space. Other MPVs, such as the Volkswagen Golf SV, have traditional backseat arrangements with no individual seats.
As you would expect, a seven-seat MPV is larger than one with five seats. The extra size gives room for more space and functionality. Seven-seat people carriers have an additional row of two seats, allowing them to carry even more passengers.
Note: You can fold the back row of seats in a seven-seater people carrier to create more space in the boot for luggage.
Space
Although all MPV cars are usually more spacious than other standard cars, they are not created equal in terms of the amount of passenger space they have. The space in people carriers varies across manufacturers and models. Larger options like the SEAT Alhambra provide enough room for seven adults to sit and travel comfortably. However, some seven-seater MPVs have rearmost seats that serve only as temporary seating options, suitable only for children or short journeys.
Tip: When selecting an MPV, make sure that you assess the boot space, both with and without the third row in place.
Running Cost
People carriers are larger than regular cars, but that doesn’t mean they are less fuel-efficient. If you opt for a five-seat model, the running cost will be similar to that of a conventional family hatchback. However, a seven-seater people carrier may cost slightly more to run due to the extra weight and the vehicle size.
Pros
- MPVs are quite large and they offer tons of room. You can fold the seats to create more boot space and even if you need to use all the seats, the largest cars still have enough space for a few pieces of luggage.
- The best MPV cars ensure comfort during long drives and have plenty of leg and headroom.
- People carriers are quite flexible. The folding seat trays and roof bars allow them to cater to your specific needs.
- People carriers typically have three to five ISOFIX points, making them ideal for attaching multiple child seats.
- They come with sliding doors, eliminating the chance of kids banging the doors.
- Most MPVs have a high towing capacity, allowing you to attach a caravan.
- MPVs often score well in safety tests, ensuring you can drive without any worries.
Cons
- MPVs’ quest for practicality and comfort often means that there is little focus on style in these vehicles.
- Large MPVs are more expensive to run than smaller vehicles.
- MPVs don’t offer the best off-road experience. Most MPVs have front-wheel drive, making them unsuitable for driving off the main roads.
SUV Features
SUV stands for a sport utility vehicle. These vehicles are similar to estate cars. They are optimised for performance and designed to handle tough conditions well. Here are some of the general features of an SUV.
Design & Size
SUVs are larger than most regular cars. Traditionally, SUVs have been four-wheel-drive for greater off-road ability. More recently, companies have begun to create two-wheel-drive SUVs, which are lighter and more fuel-efficient. SUVs typically sit higher and have greater ground clearance, making them ideal for weekend excursions.
Interior Space
SUVs come with large interiors, aimed at maximising driver comfort. The larger size also prevents passengers from feeling stuffed during long journeys. SUVs have evolved over the years, and modern models are designed to provide more cargo space. In fact, some even feature foldable rear seats like MPVs.
Note: SUVs are also available in five- and seven-seat options.
Suspension
SUVs have great suspension features, which ensure smooth drives. In fact, the suspension of an SUV is one of its most notable features. The suspension absorbs road vibration, making your ride less bumpy than in a multi-purpose vehicle or a truck.
Pros
- Good visibility of the road due to the high driving position.
- 4×4 SUV models allow you to drive smoothly on muddy lanes and off-road tracks.
- SUVs are versatile, allowing you to attach a roof or tow bars.
- SUVs have impressive occupant safety ratings and feature advanced tech.
- SUVs offer plenty of interior space, ensuring that passengers are comfortable.
Cons
- Due to their advanced tech, SUVs are usually more expensive to buy and rent than MPVs.
- SUVs are large and heavy, which leads to more fuel consumption than regular cars.
- Their large size makes it difficult for drivers to manoeuvre SUVs. You may find it difficult to park them in tight spaces.
- Since an SUV doesn’t feature sliding doors like a people carrier, the two rearmost seats are difficult to access in models with seven seats.
Reach out to SDVH when you need MPVs for hire in the UK. We provide dependable vehicles for short and long-term rentals on short notice.
Conclusion
We hope this article has fully answered your question, ‘What is an MPV?’ MPVs are multiple-purpose cars designed to carry several people. Although most people who need spacious vehicles are turning to SUVs, SUVs fall short of MPVs in terms of sheer practicality. A people carrier will serve you well if you need a vehicle that does the basics while providing enough space for your family and luggage.
