Are compact MPVs going to disappear in Europe?
- We saw in a recent analysis that D & E segments MPVs are on the way out. This is somewhat what is likely to happen with C-segment MPVs (compact MPVs) as well. Their market share in Europe fell from 10% in 2005 to 6% in 2014 and 2% in 2020. At this level, there will no longer be a compact MPV marketed in Europe in two or three years. In the USA, compact MPVs are non-existent. In China, they catch a relatively modest market share.
- When we look at the product plan of carmakers located in Europe, we see that Renault (pioneer and promoter of the compact MPV) has announced the non-replacement of its Scenic MPV which should be discontinued in 2023. Citroën will not replace its C4 Space Tourer (ex-Picasso). Volkswagen will not replace its Touran at the end of its product life. Ford discontinued its C-Max last year. Opel has abandoned the Zafira, which is the heir to a long line of success. Toyota stopped its Verso and Kia did with its Carens in 2019. The Dacia Lodgy seems condemned for lack of success.
- Paradoxically, two Premium models remain, the Mercedes Classe B and the BMW Active Tourer, which continue their career, despite relatively modest volumes. The B-Class has just been renewed and the Active Tourer will be renewed next year. SUVs therefore seem to have killed the compact MPVs of generalist carmakers, but not those of Premium carmakers. Perhaps having entered this specific market later will help premium carmakers to get a (temporary?) market for their compact MPVs.
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