MPVs, or minivans if you don't like acronyms, come in all shapes and sizes these days and there's now a new protagonist among the most compact of these segments.
The all-new Ford B-Max is built upon Ford Fiesta underpinnings but aims to squeeze the maximum amount of interior space from these compact dimensions with its cab-forward design that results in a short bonnet and tall stance.
Ford calls it a multi-activity vehicle but given its lack of any real ground clearance or crossover capability, we'll just call it a mini-minivan for now.
“Wide-open access”
It'll do that job well by the sound of things, with some features that make it especially versatile and user-friendly.
Among these are rear sliding doors, in which the B-pillars have been integrated to ensure 'wide open' access to the little school-run steed.
Ford has not released much other detail as yet, but promises that the B-Max will boast best-in-class technological features.
Beneath the stubby bonnet you'll find Ford's new 1-litre, three-cylinder Ecoboost turbopetrol engine or a range of Duratorq TDCi diesels.
The small petrol motor, recently released in the European Focus, offers output levels of 74kW and 92kW.
The MPV will go on sale in Europe later this year, where it will compete with the new Opel Meriva. We're still awaiting confirmation from Ford South Africa on its possible local release.