The world of people movers can sometimes feel a bit, well, stuck in the past. Enter the 2024 LDV Mifa, a contender that aims to shake things up with a blend of practicality and contemporary features. But is it enough to dethrone the established family haulers? Let’s buckle up and find out.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Eco-Friendly Commute: The Mifa’s all-electric drivetrain emits zero tailpipe emissions, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
- Spacious Interior: With seating for up to nine passengers, the Mifa caters to large families or shuttle services.
- Smooth and Silent Ride: Electric powertrains provide instant torque, resulting in a serene driving experience.
- Modern Design: The Mifa’s sleek lines and contemporary styling turn heads on the road.
Cons
- Price Tag: The Mifa’s starting price of $53,990. might raise eyebrows, especially when compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) alternatives.
- Limited Range: While the Mifa’s estimated range of around 200 miles. is decent, it falls short of some competitors.
- Charging Infrastructure: Australia’s charging network is expanding, but it’s not yet as robust as we’d like.
How Much Does It Cost?
The beauty of the Mifa is that it caters to different budgets. The base model, the Mifa Mode, rings in at a friendly $53,990 (all prices are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price and exclude on-road costs). Step up to the Executive for $63,990, and the top-of-the-line Luxe will set you back $72,990.
Features and Benefits
- Spacious Cabin: The Mifa’s roomy interior accommodates passengers comfortably, making it ideal for family outings or airport transfers.
- Infotainment: An intuitive touchscreen infotainment system keeps everyone connected and entertained.
- Safety Suite: Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
- Cargo Versatility: Fold-flat rear seats allow for flexible cargo space when needed.
Safety First: Peace of Mind on the Road
The 2024 Mifa has achieved a coveted five-star ANCAP safety rating, giving you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your precious cargo. The car comes loaded with a suite of driver-assist features, including those mentioned earlier, to help prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
A Fresh Perspective on Electric Mobility
Running Costs: Filling Up and Servicing
The Mifa comes with a single engine option for now: a 2.0L turbocharged petrol unit. While official fuel figures suggest a combined fuel consumption of 9.3L/100km, your real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and passenger load. On the bright side, the Mifa benefits from a 7-year, 200,000km warranty, which provides peace of mind for ownership costs.
How Does It Compare? The Family Feud
The Mifa takes aim at established players like the Kia Carnival and Toyota Tarago. While it might not have the brand recognition of those giants yet, the Mifa offers a compelling package with a competitive price tag. The upcoming electric Mifa 9 variant could be a game-changer, especially for environmentally conscious families.
Conclusion
A Promising Contender
The 2024 LDV Mifa is a strong contender in the people mover segment. It offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a comprehensive list of features, and excellent safety credentials, all at a competitive price point. While the lack of a hybrid or electric option (for now) might be a sticking point for some, the Mifa presents a compelling alternative.
Rating: 8/10
The Mifa is a well-rounded people mover with a lot to offer. It might not be the most exciting drive, but its practicality, features, and safety make it a strong choice for families looking for a modern and affordable option. Keep an eye out for the electric Mifa 9, which could potentially score an even higher rating!