It may not turn heads like a stylish coupe or a sexy cabriolet, but the practical MPV will always have a place in the heart of those who need lots of room to carry people around. Our “Know your car body type” series looks at this family favourite next.
What is an MPV?
Going by its moniker as a people carrier, the MPV or Multi-Purpose Vehicle, is a large passenger car. It usually comes with three rows of seating, and there is a sliding door on one side or both sides of the passenger cabin. The most common configurations for the rows of seats are 2+3+2 or 2+3+3.
It is not usually known for its aesthetics – someone once described the MPV as looking like a cut-off loaf of bread. There is a reason behind the design – it is to maximise the interior space for both passengers and cargo.
The MVP (most valuable part) of an MPV is its versatility. You can configure the interior layout as its seats can slide, be folded down or even removed. This opens up a lot of space, effectively making it a minivan, which is what an MPV is also called in some places.
These days, you can find electric MPVs on the roads. So despite their large size, these heavyset wheelers won’t leave as large a carbon footprint as their petrol counterparts.
Suitable for:
Despite Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) – those guys again! – threatening to muscle in on its turf, the MPV is still a great go-to-vehicle for those looking to transport large groups of people and things easily from point to point.
That means MPVs are perfect for big families, since there is plenty of headroom, legroom, knee room and elbow room (there are kids, alright!) for everyone and their belongings.
MPVs are also suitable for business or trades people who need a lot of cargo space with the option of carrying passengers comfortably.
Despite its size, running costs remain affordable such as with the fully electric BYD M3e. You can charge up in less than 1.5 hours and travel as far as 300km on one full charge with this MPV. It is also a great way to start young kids on being more eco-conscious with greener journeys.
Driven to get more useful content from us?
By subscribing, you’ll receive occasional email from Sime Darby Motors Singapore. You always have the choice to unsubscribe later on.
Choose the right car body type
No matter what type of car you are looking at, do your research to better understand what suits your lifestyle and offer you the best value for your purchase.
Sime Darby Motors Singapore offers new, pre-owned and rental vehicles of all body types through our dealerships. Contact us if you need help to find the right car for your needs.
Main photo: BYD M3e
Interested in an MPV?
Looking for more grand content?
Subscribe to have our latest content delivered to your inbox. You always have a choice to unsubscribe later on if you wish.
