Used MPVs, these models suitable for families

Arriving on the market in 2012, the Dokker quickly established itself as a first-rate outsider. Its main advantage? Its extremely competitive prices! True to the spirit of the brand, it offers a lot for a lot less.

The Dokker is a shortened and slightly redesigned version of the Lodgy minivan (without 7-seater option). However, it is almost more aesthetically pleasing in the end. Although less sophisticated in terms of finish (if that is even possible), it has a utilitarian spirit, but its value for money is unbeatable. It can easily accommodate a whole family with their luggage, or even a dog... The presentation is simple, the equipment is just sufficient, without frills, but the essentials are there. This is what we can call a tool.

Over time, it has been equipped with the most recent engines from the Renault group, in compliance with new pollution and emissions standards. The 1.5 Blue dCi 95 and 1.3 TCe 130 engines have both been efficient, fuel-efficient and reliable so far (avoid the 1.2 TCe though, unless it has been made more reliable by an upgrade). Additionally, its overall robustness is excellent, making it a wise choice if you are happy with the low cost. Its marketing ended in 2020, it is now only available on the second-hand market.

The Kangoo, an emblematic model of MPVs, has played a major role in their growing popularity. With its evolutions over the generations, the Grand Kangoo is distinguished by its two sliding doors offering easy access and its remarkable loading length. Featuring 7 seats, it also represents an attractive option for families.

Peugeot Rifter

Arriving on the market in 2018, the new Peugeot Rifter, cousin of the very popular Citroën Berlingo, offers a utility profile suitable for daily use by families. With a lower beltline than an SUV, MPVs like the Rifter offer a larger glazed area, which helps create a feeling of brightness, grandeur, interior space and freedom. Available in two chassis lengths (4.40 m and 4.75 m), both versions can accommodate 7 seats.

Despite its advanced age, the Doblo remains a relevant choice in this selection. While the first generation left something to be desired, improvements over time have made the second generation an option worth considering. Although it does not compete with models like the Ford Tourneo Connect or the Skoda Roomster, its attractive prices on the second-hand market and its more powerful engines make it an interesting choice.

In addition, its impressive loading volume, reaching 790 liters in the 5-seater configuration and more than 3 m3 once the bench seat is folded, makes it a real asset. Despite some rustic aspects, its quality of interior finish is satisfactory. You can find 90 hp diesel models with around 100,000 km on the clock for around €8,000, a similar price to last year.

The first iteration of the Connect did not appeal with its unattractive design, which made it difficult to sell to individuals in its “Tourneo” version (therefore more civilized). However, its qualities, notably its chassis and its ample loading volume, compensated for this defect. Of indisputable reliability, it represented a wise and economical choice. The second generation, launched from 2013, rectifies the main faults of its predecessor. Based on the Focus platform, it rises to the level of compact MPVs in terms of driving and performance, with EcoBoost petrol engines of 100 hp, or even 150 hp, and a 1.5 TDCi diesel of 75 hp to 120 hp.

More aesthetic, it offered a wide range of engines from its launch, but this offer was subsequently reduced, due to stricter standards. Comfortable and competitive with the C-Max, it offers a loading volume of 520 liters, slightly lower than certain competitors, but remains a choice to seriously consider.

Opel Combo Tour

The Opel Combo Tour, an MPV resulting from a partnership with Fiat, offers an impressive loading volume, similar to the Doblo, as well as pleasant driving and powerful engines. It represents a practical option for large families who need space for their luggage when traveling. Prices on the second-hand market are attractive, with recent models available for less than 10 years and less than 100,000 km for around €8,000, which is more affordable than Fiat Doblo equivalents.

The first version, based on the Golf, was a utility vehicle. The second, derived from the Polo, is outdated and unattractive today. However, subsequent generations evolved considerably, becoming spacious MPVs based on the Touran architecture. Although less luxurious than the latter, the Caddy Life offers an acceptable presentation and quality of finish, with essential equipment at an affordable price.

TDI 105 engines are recommended for their reliability and fuel economy. The Caddy favors practicality over fun, thus meeting the needs of MPV buyers. More recent generations are solid alternatives to the Touran on the second-hand market. In addition, the latest generation also serves as the technical basis for Ford's Tourneo Connect.

Skoda Roomster

This vehicle is discreet on the market, but it has undeniable advantages. Despite its small size of 4.21 meters, it offers generous interior space with 3 real rear seats and a 450-liter trunk, thus surpassing many compacts. However, it remains behind the Kangoo or Rifter and their trunk volumes of more than 650 liters.

It is also flexible thanks to a system allowing the rear side seats to be re-centered for greater comfort when only two passengers are present. The diesel engines are economical, notably the 1.9 TDI 105 known for its reliability. In addition, due to a less favorable brand image, prices on the second-hand market remain reasonable, around €3,500 for a mileage of less than 200,000 km, and have been stable since last year. In short, this compact MPV offers excellent value for money, despite its original design which can divide opinions.