World Children’s Day is celebrated on November 20, so it’s the perfect time to reflect on family life.

When it comes time to purchase a new family car, multipurpose vehicles (MPVs) stand out as some of the best offerings on the market, with a unique blend of practicality and safety.

AutoTrader has simplified the search for an MPV with a new “number of seats” filter. This addition lets consumers quickly narrow their options based on how many seats they need, making the car buying process more straightforward.

Budget-friendly: Renault Triber

Despite its compact size, the Renault Triber offers seating for up to seven occupants. The range-topping Intens has essential safety features, including four airbags and ABS, but it lacks stability control. The 1.2-litre engine produces 52kW and 96Nm and returns 5.5 L/100 km (claimed). Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially when all the seats are occupied.

With the seats folded, the boot can expand to 1 500L. The average used price for the Triber on the used car market is around R190 951. It has an average mileage of 31 630km and an average registration age of two years, making it ideal for customers seeking a nearly new MPV without breaking the bank.

Also, consider the Toyota Rumion and the Mitsubishi Xpander.

Middle ground: Opel Zafira Life

The Opel Zafira Life is one of the most affordable ways to transport large groups. It can seat up to nine people and offers exceptional value with an average used car price of R573 898. The average mileage and registration age are 70 117km and six years, respectively.

At this price point, buyers can expect reasonable equipment levels, with the base Enjoy model receiving rear park assist, power-folding windows and an infotainment touchscreen. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that develops 110kW and 370Nm.

Also, consider the Ford Tourneo and the Hyundai Staria.

High-end: Mercedes-Benz V-Class

While new Mercedes V-Class models retail for more than R2.3m, those looking for a bargain can turn to the used car market, where examples sell for an average of R1 356 060. This German MPV has a 360° camera, leather upholstery and electrically adjustable front seats. This differs from trim to trim, though.

The interior offers seating for six or seven passengers and the boot is cavernous with 542L of luggage space available. The V-Class keeps occupants safe with available adaptive cruise control, active brake assist, crosswind assist and attention assist, among other driver aids. Six airbags are also part of the package.

Most models are motivated by the 150kW 2.1-litre turbodiesel engine used in the V250d. A more powerful variant, the 300d, is also available. The average mileage and age for used V-Class models are 64 703km and four years.

Also, consider the Volkswagen Caravelle or the Kia Carnival.

AutoTrader Used Car Sales Data 

Source: AutoTrader Used Car Sales Data: 1 – 30 September 2024 

Source: haveyoursayza