Mini MPV—an abbreviation for mini multi-purpose vehicle—is a vehicle size class for the smallest size of minivans/MPVs. The mini MPV size class sits below the compact MPV size class[1] and the vehicles are often built on the platforms of B-segment hatchback models. By the European definition, the mini MPV commonly consists of cars with two rows of seats, while in Asia mini MPVs with three rows are common. Sliding doors are sometimes also fitted to mini MPVs. Mini MPVs are also called tall-hatchbacks[2] or small MPVs.[3] [4]
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Mini MPVs are typically based on the platform of a B-segment (supermini/subcompact) hatchback, with a raised roof and five-door body. The raised roof allows for higher H-point seating and easy passenger access compared with traditional hatchbacks. Often the rear seats can recline, slide, tumble, fold flat or easily be removed, allowing users to reconfigure the rear passenger and cargo volumes for each journey.[5]
The segment was created as a result of the diversification of minivans in the late 1990s. An early usage of the term mini-MPV was in 2000,[6] although the vehicles referred to at the time would now be classified as compact MPVs.[7]
Writing for The Daily Telegraph in 2004, noted automotive journalist James May wrote that mini-MPV's "are invariably based on an existing hatchback, but offer more headroom, extra 'oddments storage'... and perhaps a touch of sliding seat tomfoolery in the back.... what we are seeing with the mini-MPV is the re-invention of the hatchback, nothing more. It's a good idea, and long overdue, but that's all it is."[5]
In the late 2010s, the mini MPV segment has shrunk with many consumers opting to buy B-segment (subcompact) crossover SUVs that offer similar practicality with better design and capability.[8] [9] Many manufacturers chose to discontinue its models in favour of subcompact crossover SUVs,[10] having 13 models in 2013 competing in the segment with total sales volume of 450,897 units,[11] and just six years later having only four models in 2019 with 93,720 sold.[12]
In terms of practicality and its basic form, this category often overlaps with the similar B-segment (subcompact) crossover SUV.[13] Several manufacturers have introduced a crossover SUV to replace mini MPVs in Europe due to dwindling sales; the examples are the Citroën C3 Aircross, which replaced the Citroën C3 Picasso, and the Opel Crossland X replacing the Opel Meriva. Both offered more headroom and legroom space compared to normal B-segment/subcompact hatchbacks. B-segment SUVs usually ride higher, feature a higher and longer bonnet, equipped with black plastic overfenders or body kits, and marketed as such.[14]
Mini MPVs (also called small MPVs, sometimes also mixed or used interchangeably with compact MPV class)[15] apart from the cars matching the European definition could also include B-segment MPVs with three rows of seats with the length shorter than NaN1NaN1.[16] They are also sometimes equipped with rear sliding doors.[17] [18] This category is common in Japan, Southeast Asia and India, where cars with a smaller footprint and large cabin space are preferred.[19]
Although mini MPV presence in this region is small, several cars that match the description of a European mini MPV are marketed in the region as another category, as the 'mini MPV' phrase is not commonly used by journalists, manufacturers and regulators. An example is the Kia Soul, which is prominently marketed as a subcompact crossover SUV or a subcompact hatchback.[20] [21]
In 2018, sales of mini-MPVs in Europe represented 1% of the total market.[22] The top five selling mini-MPVs in Europe in 2018 were the Fiat 500L, Honda Fit/Jazz, Hyundai ix20, Kia Venga and Ford B-Max.
The sales trend for previous years is:
In the United States, the mini-MPV category has included the Fiat 500L, with 30,000 sales from 2013 to 2017.[27]
In Canada, as of 2013, the market for mini-MPV's was not "large, and even the overarching minivan segment is gradually shrinking as the industry expands."[28]