Renault Grand Scenic
The Espace may have started it all but it is sadly no longer available in the UK, in its place is the very stylish and almost as large Grand Scenic.
The latest model offers plenty of space and the best economy figures from our entire selection.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 1.5 dCi Hybrid Assist 80.7mpg
Citroen Grand Picasso C4
The Grand Picasso may not be quite as cutting-edge as the Grand Scenic but it offers a similar amount of space and its looks have aged well.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 1.6 BlueHDi 100 74.3mpg
Peugeot 5008
Ok, so three slides in we have included a pseudo SUV but the previous 5008 was a huge MPV competing with the Picasso and Scenic, and this latest generation version is more a mix between the ever-popular crossover and a traditional MPV.
It still offers a decent amount of space, although the third row is not quite as spacious as it used to be.
Seating: 5 adults and 2 children
Most Efficient: 1.6 BlueHDi 100 68.9mpg
Ford Tourneo Connect
The massive Tourneo connect is a van based MPV but it scores highly in safety rankings and the big and blocky shape makes it ideal to transport 7 people and their luggage.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 1.5 TDCi 64mpg
Ford Galaxy
The Galaxy is slightly smaller and more car-like than the Tourneo although at the expense of that massive interior.
It still seats 7 though and you do get a fair bit more performance which is useful when driving fully loaded.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 2.0 TDCi 150 Titanium 56.5mpg
Ford S-Max
The S-Max is smaller still but if you only need to fit children in the third row and offers optional all-wheel drive, so if you plan to travel up some slippery and snowy mountain passes this is the MPV for you.
Seating: 5 adults + 2 children
Most Efficient: 2.0 TDCi 150 Titanium 56.5mpg
Vauxhall Zafira
The Zafira has been around for longer than most but it offers a flexible 7-seat layout and is cheaper than most other cars this size.
The 1.6-litre diesel engine is very efficient too.
Seating: 5 adults + 2 children
Most Efficient: 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX 62.8mpg
Vauxhall Zafira Tourer
The Zafira Tourer slots in one class above the basic Zafira and it offers a larger interior, better convenience and luxury features without sacrificing on fuel economy.
You do pay a bit more for the privilege though but it is worth it.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX 62.8mpg
Volkswagen Sharan
The Sharan has been around since 1995 and has proven a popular hold-all for the busy family.
This second-generation model may be a tad long in the tooth but it has lost none of its practicality and a recent facelift has added some useful updates to the package.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 2.0 TDI CR Bluemotion 56.5mpg
Seat Alhambra
The Alhambra is a mechanically identical version of the Sharan but offers a slightly less well-equipped cabin at a lower price.
This may make it the preferred choice between the two especially if you plan to transport 6 children to and from sporting events with all their messy football gear.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 2.0 TDI CR Ecomotive S 56.5mpg
Kia Carens
Like the rest of the Kia range, the Carens has come along in leaps and bounds since its launch and the latest version is a capable and well-priced alternative to the more established opposition.
It also offers better fuel efficiency than the VW/Seat duo without sacrificing on space or pace. Although none of these MPVs are going to be breaking speed records anytime soon.
Seating: 7
Most Efficient: 1.7 CRDi 62.8mpg
Hyundai i800
The i800 is a big and imposing vehicle that drives like a van because that’s what it is.
You still get some decent creature comforts though and this one seats up to 8 people with space to spare. Economy is not particularly good though.
Seating: 8
Most Efficient: 2.5 CRDi SE 37.7mpg
Mercedes-Benz V-Class
The V-Class does what the i800 does but adds a lot more luxury and performance albeit at a significantly higher price point. It does offer better fuel economy than the Hyundai though.
Seating: 8
Most Efficient: V220d 45.6mpg
Here's more you might like