JD Power Survey 2005 - MPVs

This year’s JD Power survey has not yielded a particularly glowing set of results for the MPV sector. Only four people-carriers are in the top half of the overall survey, while most languish nearer the bottom. Rather worryingly, three MPVs fall outside the top 100.

As you might expect, two Japanese entries do best. The Nissan Almera Tino and Mazda Premacy come top in this category, sitting at 33rd= and 35th place, respectively.

Nissan Almera Tino CLASS WINNER
Rating 81.1% Overall Ranking 33rd=
A narrow victory for Nissan’s compact MPV, which just pipped the Mazda Premacy to top spot in the people-carrier category. It impressed owners in every area and was the second-highest placed Nissan, after the X-Trail off-roader.

It is generally considered very reliable, let down only by some niggling interior problems, but its engines suffered fewer faults than any other MPV. Owners were also chuffed with the vehicle’s performance and styling, and whenever they collected their car from a service, they posted the top satisfaction score.

Running costs are impressive, too, and owners were happier with the insurance premiums they were charged for running the Almera Tino than for any other people-carrier.

Mazda Premacy Second in class
Rating 81.0% Overall Ranking 35th
Compared with many MPVs, the Mazda Premacy leaves its owners much happier. The Premacy was only narrowly beaten by one place to the title of best MPV – and it put in a solid performance.

It’s reliable – its cabin is particularly robust – and owners loved the styling, both outside and in. They also report that the Premacy is great to drive, with the best engine, gearbox and switchgear in this class.

The only black mark is the cost of ownership, which people scored above average. This was just enough to stop the Premacy winning this section by the narrowest of margins.

Hyundai Matrix Third in class
Rating 79.7% Overall Ranking 53rd=
Hyundai scored a big win with the way its dealers looked after Matrix owners. They were happier than drivers of any other brand of MPV, raving about all aspects of the dealer experience.

Nevertheless, they still grumbled about steeper-than-average running costs.
Strong bodywork won acclaim from owners and the cabins were impressively free of problems, too. Overall, Matrix owners are a pretty satisfied bunch.

Click here for the MPVs results table

Click here for the model league table

Click here for the manufacturer league table