MPV/Minivan Class
Minivan is a type of automobile similar in shape to a van, designed for personal use. Minivans are typically designed for maximum interior volume — and are taller than a sedan, hatchback or a station wagon. Worldwide, minivans are also marketed as multi-purpose vehicles (abbreviated MPV's), people-carriers, people-movers, multi-utility vehicles(shortened MUV's) or Multi Convivial Vehicle (MCV). MPVs are usually between 1,600–1,800 millimetres (63–71 in) tall, which is around 200 mm (7.9 in) taller than a sedan, hatchback or a station wagon. The engine is mounted very close to the front edge of the car, and its elements are grouped higher than in other car types to minimize front overhang length. The rear overhang may be short as in a hatchback or long like in station wagons, changing the boot vs seat balance – the first option is more common in smaller minivans and the second in large minivans. Seats are located higher than in lower cars, giving passengers a more upright posture and leaving more legroom. Larger MPVs usually feature three seat rows, with two or three seats each: 2-3-2, 2-2-3 or 2-3-3 (front to rear) are the most common seating configurations. MPVs may have seats, either benches or individual seats, that are designed to be relocated, removed, folded partially (on-floor) or folded completely under-floor — allowing variable seating capacity and cargo room. Door configuration for MPVs are highly variable. Access to the rear interior may be through one or two sliding or out-swing rear side doors. Early minivans featured one rear side sliding door on the passenger's side, similar to full-sized passenger vans in the early 80's. Many current minivans feature rear sliding doors on both sides.
