What is the difference between a station wagon and an MPV?
2 Answers
1. Station wagons are generally based on sedans, with the trunk height raised to the level of the roof to provide more luggage space, making them a type of three-box car; MPVs, on the other hand, evolved from station wagons and are primarily designed to carry more passengers, offering a more spacious seating area. 2. Station wagons usually feature a five-seat layout, whereas MPVs typically have seven to eight seats. 3. Station wagons often perform better than MPVs because they are mainly designed for family use, while MPVs are more commonly used for business purposes.
I've driven several station wagons and MPVs before. Station wagons feel more like an extended version of sedans, with a lengthened trunk but a low-slung body, making them agile to handle and convenient for city parking. However, their interior space is limited, and fitting five or six people can feel cramped. MPVs are different—they have a tall, boxy design like a small container, featuring sliding doors and spacious three-row seating, effortlessly accommodating a family of seven for trips. The space is more organized, but they can feel a bit wobbly when turning. Both vehicles emphasize storage practicality, but station wagons lean toward leisure and small families, while MPVs are better suited for larger groups or business use. Personally, I prefer driving a station wagon for mountain road trips, while an MPV is more practical for picking up relatives and friends.