Compact MPVs, or mini MPVs as they are also known, are smartly packaged family cars which are great for those that want something nearly as small as a supermini, but far more practical in comparison to such cars. These compact/mini MPVs boast innovative design solutions, allowing passengers to store lots of items without sacrificing much seating space.
Cars of this kind can not only surprise you with how roomy they are, but they are also usually better to drive than larger MPVs. They are also comparatively more frugal too.
Here we've picked out five of our favourite compact MPVs that are available in Britain's new car market right now.
Ford B-MAX
The Ford B-MAX has made quite the impression since it first launched. It defies convention in the compact MPV category thanks to its rear sliding doors and the absence of a traditional, central B-pillar. This design makes it extremely easy to get inside either the front or rear compartments of this car. The set up is perfect for families with kids that constantly need to adjust the seats and other details.
Engines available for the B-MAX include the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol unit that packs a surprising punch on the road. It's available with up to 123bhp, and CO2 emissions are below 100g/km.
The B-MAX is a great option for younger families, and is affordable to maintain. This car also boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating for safety.
Read our full review of the Ford B-MAX
Find prices for the Ford B-MAX MPV
Hyundai ix20
Imagine having a nippy Hyundai i20 supermini with improved practicality. Actually, you don't need to use your imagination, because Hyundai currently offers the ix20. For an MPV, the ix20 is very curvaceous in design, defying the boxy profile which car buyers might expect from cars in this category.
Although built in the same factory as the Kia Venga, the Hyundai ix20 offers a much more adept drive than its counterpart. The ix20 will favour those who want a car that is practical, easy to drive, well-equipped and will stand the test of time. The ix20 ticks all of these boxes.
It is even cheap to run, with a low emitting 1.6-litre diesel option that emits just 115g/km of CO2 and returns over 60mpg.
Find prices for the Hyundai ix20 MPV
Kia Venga
The Kia Venga is sort of like the TARDIS from Doctor Who - it's bigger in the inside than you might expect when compared to how small it appears from the outside. Those are the ideal sort of ingredients for a compact MPV.
It can seat two adults and three children comfortably, although adults in the rear seats may struggle for room. There are plenty of seating configurations though and there remains plenty of room for storage.
For a small MPV, the Kia Venga has a pretty roomy, stylish interior. Its interior is comfortable, and every single Kia Venga is installed with stability control, front, rear, side and curtain airbags, and has a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Another plus point worth a mention is Kia's seven-year/100,000 mile warranty.
Find prices for the Kia Venga MPV
Vauxhall Meriva
Innovation is the key selling point of the Vauxhall Meriva. Its rear-hinged doors are a distinctive and handy feature of the design.
The Meriva also incorporates Flex5 seats which can be adjusted in many different ways. The driver can slide them forwards, backwards or side-to-side if necessary, so each passenger should feel very comfortable with their set-up.
This Vauxhall boasts strong practicality and a luxurious interior. It’s a good option for people that only need to carry four adults or want to put three kids in the rear.
Thanks to past updates, the Meriva is also well equipped. Even in standard trim, this car includes luxuries such as air conditioning, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity.
Find prices for the Vauxhall Meriva MPV
Citroen C3 Picasso
The Citroen C3 Picasso manages to stand out in the market thanks to its chunky styling which feels funky and distinctive even though the car has a mostly boxy profile. The shape of this Citroen MPV allows it to offer plenty of space inside and, thanks to a series of updates in the past several years, the quality of the interior feels upmarket and up-to-date as well.
The best thing about this car is how versatile the interior is. This Citroen may be a compact MPV, but that will be a little hard to believe when you sit and inside and take note of just how much room there is for people and luggage.
