Mini MPV

Mini MPV is a car classification used to describe superminis or subcompacts which have taller build and often with a flexible interior layout, fitting below the compact MPV and large MPV classifications. MPV stands for multi-purpose vehicle, although the full name is rarely used.

A mini MPV is similar in concept to a leisure activity vehicle, which is a passenger derivative of a panel van with mini MPVs sharing interiors and specifications with their supermini derivative while the van derivative will have less expensive materials. Mini MPVs are generally the same length as a supermini, but with a taller body. The Nissan Note is one of the largest mini MPV at 4085 mm long.

Exteriors in General

In contrast to vans, sport utility vehicles (SUV), and many crossover SUVs, most current MPVs are front-wheel drive. This configuration allows a flat inner floor, due to the absence of the driveshaft hump. With rear seats removed, the cargo area in large minivans can hold a 4x8 ft sheet of drywall or plywood flat. Four-wheel drive was also introduced to minivans in North America with the Toyota Van Wagon 4WD and the Volkswagen Vanagon Syncro. Full-time all-wheel drive was introduced to North American minivans in 1990 with the Ford Aerostar's E-4WD option, followed in 1991 by the Toyota Previa All-Trac, and in 1992 on models made by Chrysler.

MPV Terms

In Europe and India, "multi-purpose vehicle" (MPV) describes the general vehicle type without reference to its size. These are described with a word before the acronym: a "mini MPV" is derived from a supermini, a "compact MPV" is based on a small family car and a "large MPV" has about the same size as a large family car. In Asia, "multi-utility vehicle" (MUV) has more or less the same meaning as MPV. "People-carrier" and "people mover" describe both large MPVs and minibuses, but not smaller models.

Other terms are used in other English-speaking countries.