It is not easy to create a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that’s both functional and stylish, but that’s exactly what Citroen, Opel and Volkswagen have accomplished with their models here.
In terms of design, few cars can match the unconventional Citroen C4 Picasso. This Gallic number also has a spacious cabin and smoother drivetrain than before, thanks to the automatic torque-converter gearbox that has replaced the automated manual unit.
The Opel Meriva doesn’t have the Citroen’s road presence, but its coach-style rear doors make it the most unique MPV available to buyers in Singapore. Bold style statement aside, this German contender aims to impress with its flexibility and functionality, too.
Looking most conventional in this company is the Volkswagen Sportsvan, which we tested in Highline spec. This model promises to be roomier than the Golf (whose platform has been stretched to underpin the Sportsvan), while being as manoeuvrable as the hatchback it’s based on.
Which of these MPVs would a family of five rank the highest in comfort and style? Continue reading to find out.
The Citroen C4 Picasso shines in this shootout. Its offbeat design and futuristic cabin are big pluses, but the rather short seatbacks in the rear mean this MPV is more suited to kids than adults. Nevertheless, the cushy ride, frugal diesel drivetrain and roomy boot make this French contender a very compelling one indeed.
If children are the main consideration, then the Opel Meriva must be considered, too, because its coach-style rear doors make family outings easier than ever for parents. The Meriva’s only real drawbacks are its relatively small boot and storage points. But it makes up for these by having a relatively small price, which at press time is $13.1k and $21.5k lower than the C4 Picasso and Sportsvan respectively.
The Volkswagen Sportsvan is the surprise in this story. Despite its compact “Golf+” exterior, it boasts a very roomy interior and the most comfortable backseat as well. Sure to delight keen drivers is its comparatively quick performance, which should make school runs more fun (or at least less dull) for a family of five.
Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 8-valves, turbo-diesel
Capacity 1560cc
Bored x stroke 75mm x 88.3mm
Compression ratio 16:1
Max power 120bhp at 3500rpm
Max torque 300Nm at 1750rpm
Power to weight 90.9bhp per tonne
Gearbox 6-speed automatic with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 11.3 seconds
Top speed 188km/h
Consumption 25.6km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 101g/km
SUSPENSION
Front Multi-link, coil springs
Rear Torsion beam, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Michelin Energy Saver
Size 205/60 R16
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction aids ABS, ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4597mm
Width 1826mm
Height 1625mm
Wheelbase 2785mm
Kerb weight 1320kg
Turning circle 11.3m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $129,988 (after $15k CEVS rebate)
Warranty 5 years/100,000km
+ Coolest dashboard, most efficient drivetrain, largest boot
– Shortest rear seatbacks, slowest infotainment, least responsive manual override
BEST IN RIDE QUALITY
Opel Meriva 1.4 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1364cc
Bore x stroke 72.5mm x 82.6mm
Compression ratio 9.5:1
Max power 120bhp at 4200-6000rpm
Max torque 200Nm at 1850-4200rpm
Power to weight 80.8bhp per tonne
Gearbox 6-speed automatic with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 11.9 seconds
Top speed 185km/h
Consumption 13.9km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 169g/km
SUSPENSION
Front MacPherson struts, coil springs
Rear Torsion beam, coil springs
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Bridgestone Turanza ER300
Size 205/55 R16
SAFETY
Airbags 6
Traction aids ABS, ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4300mm
Width 1812mm
Height 1615mm
Wheelbase 2644mm
Kerb weight 1486kg
Turning circle 11.5m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $116,800 (no CEVS rebate/surcharge)
Warranty 5 years/unlimited km
+ Most nimble handling, best backseat access, lowest asking price
– Smallest boot, least economical motor, heaviest steering
BEST IN RESPONSIVENESS
Volkswagen Sportsvan 1.4 (A)
DRIVETRAIN
Type Inline-4, 16-valves, turbocharged
Capacity 1395cc
Bore x stroke 74.5mm x 80mm
Compression ratio 10:1
Max power 125bhp at 5000-6000rpm
Max torque 200Nm at 1400-4000rpm
Power to weight 95.4bhp per tonne
Gearbox 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
Driven wheels Front
PERFORMANCE
0-100km/h 9.9 seconds
Top speed 200km/h
Consumption 18.5km/L (combined)
CO2 emission 126g/km
SUSPENSION
Front MacPherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear Multi-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
Front / Rear Ventilated discs / Discs
TYRES
Type Bridgestone Potenza S001
Size 225/40 R18
SAFETY
Airbags 7
Traction aids ABS, ESP
MEASUREMENTS
Length 4338mm
Width 1807mm
Height 1578mm
Wheelbase 2685mm
Kerb weight 1310kg
Turning circle 11.1m
BUYING IT
Price incl. COE $138,300 (no CEVS rebate/surcharge)
Warranty 3 years/100,000km
+ Roomiest backseat, quickest gearbox, nippiest performance
– Least exciting looks, least responsive at low speeds, weakest air-con
BEST IN DRIVER-FRIENDLINESS
