Looking to Rent an MPV Car? First Know the Types, along with their Advantages & Disadvantages

The high levels of mobility within the quickly modernizing Indonesian society coincides with certain types of logistical facilities that serve to support this rapid societal growth. Indeed, there are various vehicle types often used within Indonesia that serve to meet such needs. A popular type of car in that regard is the MPV, or Multi Purpose Vehicle, which is known for being a highly versatile family oriented car.

This model of vehicle has become quite popular within urbanized society due to Indonesians having a preference for large-capacity cars which function to accommodate large families. Otherwise, lets take a look at some other reasons why this type of vehicle is highly valued in Indonesia.

Multipurpose Cars for Indonesian Families

As the name implies, the Multi-Purpose Vehicle or MPV possesses a variety of versatile functions for a variety of needs, ranging from human transportation to the delivery of goods and products.

Although this car is more popularly used to facilitate the family unit, an MPV car can also be utilized as a cargo car considering its large capacity. The average MPV car can accommodate up to 7 passengers; it is not hard to see why in Indonesia, a place known to culturally prefer large families, has embraced the MPV car as somewhat of a national favorite.

There are several specifications that distinguish MPV cars from other types of vehicles, some of which include the following.

1. Passenger capacity

If you plan on going for a long-distance vacation with your family, renting an MPV car can certainly facilitate your plans. The reason for this is apparent as this car was designed to support familial activities through utilizing a spacious cabin able to accommodate up to 7-8 passengers.

2. Machine capacity

As a multifunctional family orientated car, the average engine capacity of this car falls under 1500 cc. This car is suitable for driving on urban streets. In contrast to SUVs which are designed for extreme terrains and hold an average engine capacity of 1500 cc or more.

3. Car dimentions

Because such cars are used to transport both passengers and cargo, the body design of this car tends to be taller and wider. The goal is to widen the cabin to a considerable degree so as to make seating arrangements comfortable when even facilitating a large number of passengers. Not only that, from the other side of the exterior, MPV cars are designed much more elegantly while utilizing standard size wheels. Meanwhile, the ground clearance is usually at a lower height by comparison to other SUVs. Although not as high as an SUV, MPV cars have a fairly high ground clearance above 200 mm, making it possible to carry this car on not so smooth road conditions.

READ ALSO: Here are Tips for Adjusting Vehicles to Family Needs

Types of MPV cars

MPV vehicles are divided into three categories, each holding differing features, namely low MPV, medium MPV, and premium MPV. Now, let’s take a look at the differences between the three types.

Low MPV

Compared to other types of MPVs, low MPVs have simpler features and possess a body that is of relatively average size. Even so, such cars are still able to accommodate daily transportation needs. Here are some low MPV cars for comparison.

1. Daihatsu Xenia

The third generation Daihatsu Xenia has undergone many changes since its presence within Indonesia back in 2004. There are two engine options, namely 1,300 cc and 1,500 cc with NR-VE Dual VVT-i technology with conventional automatic transmission changed to CVT. The 1,300 cc engine has 98 PS of power and 122 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. While the 1,500 cc engine has 106 ps of power with 138 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm.

2. Suzuki Ertiga

Another low MPV car is the Suzuki Ertiga which holds the following dimensions: 4,395 mm in length, 1,735 mm in width and 1,690 mm in height, with the lowest ground clearance compared to other similar models. Though it’s relatively small in size, there’s no need to worry about the car’s third row of seats due to it still offering a standard level of comfort for adult passengers.

3. Toyota Avanza

Who isn’t aware of this amazing family car? The Toyota Avanza has been around for a long time in Indonesia. This vehicle’s third generation holds dimensions of 4,395 mm in length, 1,730 mm in width and 1,700 mm in height with a ground clearance of 205 mm. The latest generation Avanza is equipped with a 2NR-VE front-wheel drive 4-cylinder DOHC Dual VVT-i 1,496 cc engine with a power of 106 ps.

Medium MPV

Considered one step above that of a low MPV, a medium MPV model has a larger body and a more complete range of features. However, this type is slightly more expensive regarding its price than a low MPV. Some medium MPV cars include the following.

1. Wuling Cortez

Compared to other competitors, the Wuling Cortez is the newest medium MPV car on the market. Even so, this car is indeed sought after by many. Last year alone, this car sold 202,010 units in the market during the pandemic. Unlike other medium MPVs, this car offers several advantages, such as being offered at a relatively affordable price, its exterior design, spacious cabin, comfortable interior, as well as holding a variety of advanced features, along with being equipped with a sunroof.

For its more advanced features, the Wuling Cortez comes with a voice command feature called “WIND”. Interestingly, through these features, this car is priced at an affordable price at around IDR 287.3 million (OTR Jakarta).

2. Honda Mobilio

The Honda Mobilio measures at 4,386 mm in length, 1,683 mm in width and 1,603 mm in height with a ground clearance of 189 mm. This car is equipped with a 1.5 L i-VTEC engine (1,496 cc) capable of producing power up to 116 HP. The Honda Mobilio comes in three types, namely S, E, and RS.

3. Toyota Innova

The Toyota Innova is one of the best medium MPVs operating within Indonesia. This is due to the fact that the Toyota Kijang Innova had won the title several times because of its performance. Regarding its features, the Toyota Innova is equipped with 7 airbags, air purifiers, digital AC, 9-inch head unit with Near-Field Communication (NFC). In total there are 12 variants of the Kijang Innova with prices starting from Rp. 326.4 million.

Premium MPV

The last category we will be looking at is the premium MPV, which holds the largest body and interior VIP class. There are several premium MPVs that are present within the Indonesian automotive market, such as the following.

1. Toyota Alphard

As a luxury family orientated car, the Toyota Alphard is in great demand within the market. This car holds a capacity of 8 seats with a power of 276 HP. This car makes a good first impression judging from its various advanced features, such as offering central locking features, power locks on the doors, anti-theft devices and engine immobilizers, rear reading lamps, and even an on-board computer. The starting price for this MPV is Rp. 1.13 billion.

2. Lexus LM

For dimensions, the Lexus LM has dimensions similar to the Toyota Alphard because it is built from the same base. For dimensions, this car has a length of 5,040 mm, a width of 1,850 mm, a height of 1,895 mm and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. This premium MPV car uses an engine with a capacity of 3,456 cc which is equipped with complete safety features as well as advanced technology in the cabin. The price of the Lexus LM starts from Rp. 2.4 billion.

READ ALSO: 6 Advantages of Booking a Car Rental Via Online Compared to Offline

Know the Advantages & Disadvantages of MPV Cars

MPV car rental can be an option not for vacation needs with family or private events, but can also be used as an office operational car. Well, if you are still confused about what type of car to drive, first know the advantages and disadvantages of MPV cars.

Advantages of MPV Cars

In addition to offering a large cabin space, this category of vehicle certainly offers other advantages, such as those listed below.

MPV cars are generally able to drive on all types of terrain. Even when filled to its maximum passenger capacity, such cars are still able to offer a standard level of comfort during long trips. There are several features that make this car comfortable. One of them is because of its high ground clearance, this vehicle is able to pass through various terrains, such as bumpy roads, potholes, and even roads filled with puddles. For several MPV car brands, manufacturers also equip it with features that allow it to be driven through uphill, narrow, and winding roads.

Has a complete range of security features. Not only comfort is sought by the driver, but also safety during the trip. Don't worry when you rent this MPV car because this car segment is equipped with various complete safety features. Call it such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and dual SRS airbags. This safety feature is very important because it can help minimize the risk of accidents.

Competitive price. Another advantage of MPV cars is that they are affordable compared to other types of cars. The selling price did not go down much, especially if the condition of the car is still prime and well-maintained. Because it is a popular car in Indonesia, the operational and maintenance costs of MPV cars are also relatively affordable, such as fuel costs, monthly maintenance, service fees, and spare parts that are easily found at affordable prices.

Luggage capacity can be maximized. If you go on a road trip with your family and bring a lot of stuff, there’s no need to worry about your luggage problems. The fact that its luggage capacity is maximized presents a distinct advantage, and thus passengers will be able to fold the backseats in the second and third rows, unlike sedans or SUVs.

Environmentally friendly machine. Another advantage of MPV cars that is no less important is in the kitchen sector. The majority of MPV types carry environmentally friendly engines with economical fuel efficiency.

Disadvantages of MPV Cars

Behind the advantages, MPV cars also have disadvantages that you need to know. What are the disadvantages of MPV cars?

Not strong enough to drive upwards. Although some MPV car brands are strong to drive uphill, unfortunately this is not the case in all MPV car brands. The reason for this is that MPV cars are indeed built to drive on smoothly constructed roads, thus making these vehicles less reliable when driving uphill.

Not suitable for young people. As a car with a target market for families, MPV cars are not suitable for use by young people. There is no eye-catching grille or stylish body that is typical of young people. However, this comes back to individual preferences.

Rent an MPV car with MPM Rent

MPV car rental at MPM Rent. MPMRent is a leading vehicle rental company in Indonesia that is ready to meet your needs, both for business and for personal use. MPMRent has types of luxury cars, passenger cars, logistics vehicles, and heavy duty vehicles that can be rented according to need.

MPMRent has several advantages. Starting from 13,000 fleet units of various brands and variants, 1,500 qualified drivers, touch points spread throughout Indonesia, competitive prices, and 24-hour contact center services. For more information on car rental at MPMRent, visit the https://www.mpm-rent.com/services page.