Petrolheads view MPVs as a disgrace to their “profession” and a terrible downgrade from anything else they might be driving, be it a Vios or a Lotus. But it doesn’t always have to be that way, thanks to capable people carriers like the Volkswagen Touran, Opel Zafira and Citroen Picasso. They make driving MPVs almost an enjoyment, rather than an outright embarrassment.
“Almost” because they are ultimately designed to move people in practical, not emotional, terms. Even so, the TSI-powered Touran packs more performance than any car of its type has a right to, the Zafira handles and takes care of its driver – even more than its passengers, while the Picasso is an automotive work of art like no other MPV.
And, likewise, there is no other local car magazine editorial like our all-new group test format.
We’ve made it easier than ever for you to compare and contrast the cars being tested together. No more ploughing through tons of text just to read the most important points. They are now all neatly presented in a caption-driven style that is readable yet informative.
Do check it out and give us some honest feedback at [email protected], so that we can make our revamped group test even better. Enjoy.
TOURAN – Upright dashboard is well-built and well-equipped, but its glovebox is the least accommodating. Steering wheel is leather-wrapped but a little thin in the rim. Instrument meters are attractive and effective, and the switchgear is user-friendly. But the Golf-derived cockpit architecture looks boring besides that of the Zafira (edgy) and the Picasso (space-age).
ZAFIRA – Cosy cockpit integrates its primary control panels beautifully, but the air-con is the least powerful and there are not enough cubbyholes for odds and ends. Steering wheel is the chunkiest and sportiest, instrument meters look good and all fittings are solid. But there are too many small switches with equally tiny words.
C4 PICASSO – Sophisticated dashboard is funky yet functional, with an array of handy storage compartments and a nifty centralised display (with changeable colours) for critical functions. But the fixed-hub steering wheel is a potentially confusing explosion of buttons. Expansive windscreen provides superb visibility, but the IU is a long-arm stretch away.
