A decade ago, it was relatively easy for families to be impressed by an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle). For the head of the household, a family “carryall” that is spacious, reliable and not too thirsty seemed like a good choice. Driveability and refinement weren’t high on daddy’s priority list – yet.
Few parents today, however, would want to drive an MPV that rides like a van and handles like a minibus. A modern people-mover has to be more than just a stereotypical square room on wheels, with basic amenities.
Fitting the bill is the newest entrant to this segment, the Renault Grand Scenic. The French carmaker claims that its curvy newcomer not only looks good, it’s also comfortable and packed with a host of modern features.
Playing up its own athletic capabilities is the 5008. The Peugeot number promises to excite the petrolhead papa with its performance-oriented powertrain, while still satisfying his need for seven seats.
Throwing its hat into this contest is the Opel Zafira Tourer – a German rival to the two French cars in this shoot-out. Like Peugeot and Renault, Opel also claims that its MPV will impress with its roominess and flexibility, while delivering a confidence-inspiring drive.
So, which of these MPVs has the ability to delight parents and children alike? Continue reading to find out.
GRAND SCENIC – Feels the classiest, being the only contender with keyless entry and ignition, while the courtesy lights are better positioned than the 5008’s. It feels the most spacious, too, with the best headroom and the tallest windows.
ZAFIRA – Well-suited to long drives as the seats are the most supportive, while the footrest is the widest. It’s also the most safety-conscious thanks to the standard Side Blind Spot and Lane Departure Warning features.
5008 – High and rather wide centre console makes this cockpit seem more compact compared to the other two, but it should please parents as it’s the only one here with a supervision mirror and a seat-belt monitor placed beside each other.
