5 benefits of MPVs – Why more drivers are choosing them in Singapore
More and more drivers in Singapore are opting for MPVs. What’s fueling this trend? If you’re weighing your next vehicle purchase, here are some compelling reasons why an MPV might be the more practical choice for you.
1. Space for everyone (and everything)
MPVs typically offer 3 rows of seats, comfortably fitting 6 to 7 passengers. For families, those with elderly relatives, or those who often travel with friends, this extra seating space is a big advantage. Plus, you can fold or slide seats to free up cargo space when you need it – great for grocery trips and moving bulky IKEA furniture .
The Nissan Serena e-POWER really delivers in this area. Its 7-seater layout makes sure nobody has to squeeze in, and each row is designed so occupants can stretch their legs. With all seats up, the boot space is about 280 litres, sufficient for daily shopping or a couple of medium-sized bags. Fold down the third row, and cargo capacity jumps to roughly 815 litres, letting you carry much bigger or bulkier loads – think bicycles or large suitcases.
Beyond pure volume, the Serena e-POWER adds clever touches for usability: sliding second-row seats to adjust legroom, and dual backdoors + a dual tailgate opening feature so accessing cargo is easier even in tight parking.
Interested in this car? Find the exact model and variant on Carro here.
2. Comfort and convenience
Getting out of an MPV with ease! (Source)
With lower ride height compared to SUVs, MPVs are generally easier for children and older adults to enter or exit without straining. Wide doors and flat floors also help make daily use simpler and safer.
Interior designs in MPVs tend to focus on comfort: good headroom, better legroom, rear AC vents, big windows for views, and flexible seating that adapts to family needs. If you often travel with kids, strollers, or need to carry both passengers and cargo regularly, an MPV layout tends to serve better than a cramped SUV.
3. Good value for practical usage
Because MPVs prioritize people over ruggedness, you often pay less for certain components (like suspension tuned for comfort over off-road). Additionally, features like sliding seats or fold-down second/third rows increase utility. For lots of usage – school runs, family trips, group travel – MPVs often deliver more usable space per dollar spent.
Interested in this car? Find the exact model and variant on Carro here.
4. Ideal for private hire / Multi-purpose use
If you drive for private hire (PHV) or often need to move groups of people (airport runs, family outings), MPVs shine in filling that niche. More seats mean more passengers, and flexible interiors and cargo space allow swapping between people-carrier mode and luggage mode smoothly.
The Toyota Noah is a strong contender here – it’s spacious, comfortable, and has a reputation for reliability and safety that’s especially important if you’re clocking long hours on the road. Its sliding doors and versatile seating layout make it a practical choice whether you’re ferrying families, tourists, or business travelers.
If you’re considering driving PHV, check out our PHV driver guide for tips on choosing the right car and managing costs.
Interested in this car? Find the exact model and variant on Carro here.
5. Visibility & safety features
Superior visibility in an MPV (Source)
One of the key strengths of MPVs is their superior visibility. With large windows, wide windshields, and minimal blind spots, drivers get a much clearer view of the road compared to many SUVs. A lower centre of gravity also helps improve stability, especially on highways or when cornering, which adds to peace of mind for both driver and passengers.
Beyond just the body design, many modern MPVs come equipped with advanced safety features. For example:
- Toyota Noah – Toyota Safety Sense with pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beam.
- Honda Odyssey – Multi-angle rearview camera, lane watch blind spot display, and enhanced body structure for collision safety.
- Nissan Serena – ProPILOT driver assist, intelligent around view monitor, and dual SRS airbags across variants.
Among these, the Toyota Noah stands out as one of the most practical choices for families and private hire alike. Its tall and boxy design gives excellent outward visibility, while the large glasshouse reduces blind spots. Toyota Safety Sense is standard, bringing advanced driver assistance such as lane-keeping, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control into play. Combined with features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, the Noah is engineered to minimise risks in both city driving and longer trips.
For buyers who prioritise safety without sacrificing comfort and practicality, the Toyota Noah is a model worth shortlisting. It offers that extra layer of reassurance, especially when carrying children, elderly family members, or passengers who value a smooth and secure ride.
Should you consider an MPV in Singapore?
If your daily life involves:
- ferrying family members, children or elderly relatives
- occasionally carrying bulky items or luggage
- wanting comfort and practicality over off-road capability or sporty style
Then an MPV is likely the more sensible choice. However, if you prioritize ride height, style, or off-road capability (even if just for show), an SUV may still be compelling.
Final takeaway
MPVs are winning hearts in Singapore because they offer comfort, space, and adaptability – all things that make everyday driving easier for families and multi-purpose users. If you want a vehicle that’s more about serving people than proving toughness, an MPV could very well be your best next car.
Look for your next MPV at Carro today!
