What to think about when buying a new MPV
There are all sorts of practical considerations when we're making any big purchasing decisions, but especially so when you're in the market for a new car. So what issues do you need to consider if you're thinking of purchasing a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)?
Is it the right size?
MPVs have taken off among the driving public because they offer more luggage and passenger space than a typical car, but they are available in different sizes. As a result, a modestly sized MPV like a Renault Modus probably won't be the best one for you if you're wanting to transport up to seven people in comfort and still have room for all their bags.
But at the same time, the largest MPVs might be more expensive to run than smaller vehicles and might force you to spend more on insurance and fuel than you might like. So weigh up these different issues before deciding how big your perfect MPV should be.
Can you get in and out?
Larger vehicles aren't always the most accessible when you're in a busy car park, as you'll inevitably be taking up more space and running close to cars that are parked next to you. Fortunately, many manufacturers have realised this and responded by ensuring they offer sliding doors, so you don't need to risk pranging another vehicle as you squeeze through an impossibly narrow gap when you open the door.
Can you be flexible with seating and luggage space?
Being able to tailor the interior of an MPV is essential. We want to make space for larger items, fit in all our passengers and distribute weight evenly. So work out what your priorities are likely to be when you're adjusting the seats and trying to make more storage space – as this could be vital to picking the right model. And on the subject of storage, it might make sense to choose a car with plenty of hidden and smaller places to keep items, like cup holes and pockets on the backs of seats.
How many seats is too many?
Just because you can have something, it doesn't mean you automatically must have it. So why pay over the odds for a seven-seat vehicle when five seats will do? After all, any decent five-seat MPV should still offer plenty of luggage space for every occupant. Going for the biggest model on the market when you're not actually going to use all the space it offers is simply a waste of money.
Is it safe for children?
Drivers are legally obliged to make sure young children are in an appropriate seat when they are taking to the road. So if you have kids that need to be seated correctly, pick an MPV with this in mind and make sure there's enough space for the number of child seats you're likely to require.
Also, ask yourself if they can be fitted quickly, easily and safely before committing to any purchase.
Drivers will be used to considering mundane and practical issues whenever they're purchasing a car – and there's no reason to change this approach when you're getting an MPV.