Multipurpose cars, or MPVs, are generally considered to be the most appropriate family vehicles. There are some features that you simply can’t get in modern SUVs, and therefore, many consumers opt for an MPV. These vehicles are somewhat close in body structure to vans, but emphasize the practical nature of their category. However, unlike minivans, MPVs typically lack rear side doors and windows, thus keeping them aesthetically appealing. They also come with specially designed interior fittings to accommodate more passengers than competitors in other categories and classes. The spacious leg area, large boot space, and seven-passenger capacity features are the most prolific reasons that consumers look for when shopping for MPVs.
With such a wide a variety of MPVs on the market, shopping for one can become problematic. Popping by a showroom and exploring all your options isn’t always practical, which is why we’ve made this list of popular MPVs. Below you’ll find five noteworthy heir positive features, as well as their shortcomings.
Citroën Grand C4 Picasso MPV
The Citroën Grand C4 Picasso is a true representation of a spacious and incredibly versatile vehicle. If you wanted to get a truly economical vehicle this year, the Grand C4 Picasso is a phenomenal choice. This model has been redesigned recently, yet it still retains its top ranking and value as a multi-purpose car.
The Citroën Grand C4 Picasso features a BlueHDi 100 diesel engine, which is a fairly unimpressive engine at first glance, but can be upgraded if you’re looking for greater performance. Despite that, the standard engine is still cost-effective and boasts an impressive fuel economy of 74mpg, which is counteracted by the aforementioned engine upgrade.
Pros
- Low emissions, which exempt it from road tax
- High-quality interior materials
- Extra spacious in the rear
- All-round collision sensors
Cons
- Driving is less fun compared to the competitors
- Complicated dashboard can make navigation difficult for first-time drivers
Ford S-Max MPV
As far as MPVs go, this may be the most comfortable and exciting vehicle on the market. If you’re in need of a multi-purpose vehicle that features many modern entertainment staples, the Ford S-Max is the perfect pick. This car goes for a price ranging between £25,000 and £30,000. It is popularly referred to as “a drivers cars” due to its highly-developed chassis.
The Ford S-Max MPV offers many of the features consumers have come to expect from this class of vehicle, but brings its own unique improvements. The exterior design is rather sporty and is visually reminiscent of its American relatives. As expected, this vehicle features a 7-seat capacity without sacrificing boot space or practicality. That being said however, the third-row seating is slightly less spacious compared to its competitors. Worth noting is the Ford’s fuel economy which is heavily dependant on the engine package you choose, and can range between 36 to 57 mpg.
Pros
- Best car for fun and enjoyment on trips
- Features a large capacity-seven seat and capable of carrying considerable amount of luggage
- Highly practical and driver-friendly
Cons
- Rather expensive, like the top-spec Vignale
- Safety features are lacking compared to competitors
- Higher fuel consumption
Citroën C4 Picasso MPV
This is a similar model to the Grand C4 Citroën Picasso. It is not as practical as the Grand model but makes it to the list of the best MPVs of 2017. The Citroën C4 Picasso MPV retails at a price ranging between £19,000 and £27,000. It has an approval rating of 4.4 and performs exceptionally well in reviews. Even in comparison to the Grand model, the smaller C4 Picasso is quite impressive.
Most notable of the changes between the C4 and Grand C4, would be the removal of two rear seating options. This change has allowed for greater seat mobility and comfort however, as seats are more adjustable and can recline for an even more luxurious ride. Another welcome change is a greater selection of trim packages and engines, which now include the e-HDi 90 and 115 e-HDi. Lastly, some consumer reports favor the C4’s improved exterior styling over the Grand.
Pros
- Relatively cheap compared to its competition
- Reduced emissions resulting in road tax exemption
- Impressive boot space
Cons
- Lacking various infotainment features
- Unreliable handling
- Less enjoyable to drive as compared to other MPV models
SEAT Alhambra MPV
The SEAT Alhambra MPV leads the market on practicality and versatility. Ranging from £24,000 to £36,000 depending on the desired trim package, the Alhambra seats itself in the middle of a sprawling MPV market. This vehicle arrives on this due to its impressive design interior, versatility, and agreeable pricing.
The SEAT Alhambra features the impressive seven-seat capacity expected from the MPV category, but delivers it with the much-needed comfort many vehicles lack. Unlike its competition, the Alhambra offers comfortable seating for seven adults in all three rows of seats without sacrificing leg room. Although it sports a less aesthetically impressive exterior than other vehicles in its class, it easily makes up for this with its inoffensive shape, plethora of features, and modern engine options. This particular model offers three distinct engine variants: one petrol and two diesel options.
Pros
- Incredibly spacious and accommodating
- Made from high-quality materials
- Features sliding doors
- Highly customizable
Cons
- Less stylish than the competition
- Extensive upgrades can become expensive
- Severely lacking in fuel efficiency
Renault Grand Scenic MPV
This vehicle is considered the prototypical MPV of the European car market. It has been improved and redesigned recently with more changes on the horizon. This vehicle costs roughly £23,000 for the base package, positioning it to be highly competitive in the MPV market. Due to its accessible pricing, it has quickly become a consumer favourite. The Grand Scenic MPV has an approval rating of 4.4 and remains a respectable brand, even through its numerous iterations.
Sporting a new aggressive design, and massive 20-inch wheels, the Renault Grand Scenic aims to re-establish itself as a modern MPV. The exterior styling has been lauded by critics as a major selling point, bringing some much-needed flair to the classic brand. Sadly, some of these design changes have negatively affected third-row accessibility, but this will only be noticeable if you plan on driving with upwards of 5 passengers.
Pros
- Seven-seat capacity
- Enhanced safety due to the autonomous braking feature
- Modern exterior appearance coupled with the 20-inch alloy wheels
- Impressive interior design
Cons
- It can be difficult to access the third-row seats
- The larger wheels can be uncomfortable in poor conditions
- High fuel prices
If you need to get the right vehicle for your family, multi-purpose vehicles are the best options to consider. The models reviewed above are among the best MPVs for 2017!
