The MPV, or multipurpose vehicle, once fell out of favor due to changing consumer preferences. However, there’s evidence to suggest that it might be making a comeback, led by vehicles like the Lexus LM350h and Li Auto Mega.
The Li Auto Mega is a Chinese electric vehicle designed for ‘urban’ transport of seven people, boasting a range of over 350 miles. It features ‘hyper charging’ at 520kW, dual electric side doors, and a big square hatch at the back. The seating arrangement is 2+2+3, with captain’s chairs in the middle and a kid-friendly bench in the rear. All seats are heated, and the front four are cooled with massage functions. The vehicle also includes a drop-down ceiling-mounted gesture-controlled OLED monitor and wireless charging.
The Li Auto Mega’s design, led by Benjamin Baum, is striking and stops traffic. It incorporates Li Auto’s fancy light bars front and back and is aerodynamically efficient, even surpassing Porsche’s Taycan EV. The Mega accelerates smoothly, hitting 62mph in 5.5 seconds, and its ‘Magic Carpet Air Suspension 3’ provides a ride similar to piloting a hovercraft.
In contrast, the Lexus LM350h is based on the TNGA-K car platform and is closely related to the Toyota Alphard. It comes in seven or four-seat configurations with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Miller cycle petrol engine and hybrid assistance. The high-spec Takumi grade features airline-style seats in the back with advanced amenities like wireless charging and a 48-inch TV monitor.
While the Lexus LM350h offers a more luxurious experience, it starts at £90k and goes up to £113k for the four-seater version. This pricing positions it more as a VIP transport option rather than a family car.
Both vehicles showcase the potential of MPVs in the modern market, particularly in the luxury segment. The Li Auto Mega, with its innovative features and electric powertrain, represents a bold step into the future of family-style luxury transport.
These cars, though unusual in the UK market, are infinitely interesting. They demonstrate that there’s value in embracing vehicles that excel at specific purposes, even if they don’t conform to traditional luxury car shapes.
