An MPV or Multi Purpose Vehicle is an increasingly popular choice for consumers especially those looking for a family cost efficient hauler, rather than having to insure two cars. Given this surge of appeal, MPV sales have literally skyrocketed in recent years, with many manufacturers adding MPV models to their lineup.

So the big question is which MPV is right for you? To ease your buying decision, we’ve rounded of 10 of the best MPV’s available in the market, which offer excellent fuel efficiency (50mpg or more), and most of them powered by diesel, with one petrol hybrid making the list.

Citroen C4 Picasso (1.6 e-HDi) – Official 70.6 mpg; Real MPG 59.4 mpg

Regarded as one of the most family friendly cars owing to its individual sliding and folding seats, the Citroen Picasso boasts a sleek, uncluttered dashboard complete with a roomy boot. It may not match up well when compared to other vehicles in its segment, but if you’re looking for a vehicle that is far more stylish, spacious and economical, the Citroen Picasso is definitely worth exploring.

Citroen C3 Picasso (1.6 HDi 90) – Official 68.9 mpg; Real MPG 57.2 mpg

Awarded the Best Budget MPV in the 2012/2013 Car of the Year Awards by Whatcar, the Citroen C3 Picasso (1.6 HDi 90) boasts an expansive boot and an airy cabin. In addition, most variants of this model are mated with a supple suspension resulting in a smooth driving experience. The C3 Picasso (1.6 HDi 90) may not offer the same driving dynamics as the Ford Max, but its ROI makes it worthy of this list.

Toyota Prius+ 1.8 VVT-i – Official 68.9 mpg; Real MPG 55.0 mpg

Although the Toyota Prius+ 1.8 VVT-I is the first petrol hybrid MPV in the market, it definitely ranks well among its diesel counterparts. With room to accommodate 5 people comfortably, the Toyota Prius+ 1.8 VVT-i is an expensive investment, but is rather inexpensive to maintain.

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso (1.6 e-HDi) – Official 70.6 mpg; Real MPG 54.4 mpg

The Grand C4 Picasso (1.6 e-HDi) by Citroen features a stylish appeal, and can comfortably accommodate up to 5 people in its extremely practical yet well laid out cabin. It may not be the most exciting car to drive compared to other vehicle in its class, but it makes for its flaws with high equipment levels and several appealing design touches.

Fiat 500L 1.6 Multijet II – Official 62.8 mpg; Real MPG 54.2 mpg

The interior of the 500L is extremely bright owing to its swathes of glass on the exterior. In addition, it features a roomy boot and spacious rear seating area, making it the most spacious and practical choices in the MPV segment. The vehicle would have topped this list if it had been priced slightly lower.

Toyota Verso 1.6 D-4D – Official 62.0 mpg; True MPG 52.7 mpg – the engine of the Verso is rather unrefined and is not the most dynamic vehicle in its segment. However, if you’re looking for a vehicle that offers superior comfort and ease of use, then the Verso is worth a second look.

BMW 218d Active Tourer – Official 68.9 mpg; Real MPG 52.6 mpg – Not the most practical vehicle in the MPV segment, the 218d BMW is however appointed with a rich cabin, and offers a smooth driving experience through most terrains.

Peugeot 5008 2.0 HDi – Official 51.3 mpg; Real MPG 51.5 mpg – an excellent family vehicle, the 5008 Peugeot offers a decent ride and handles well too.

Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 CDTi – Official 68.9 mpg; True MPG 51.5 mpg – designed as a mid-size people carrier, the Vauxhall Zafira offers an excellent driving experience, and is available at strong discounts.

Kia Carens 1.7 CRDi 114 ISG – with room for seven passengers and backed by a seven year warranty, the diesel engine of the Carens is economical and smooth, making it an extremely appealing buy.