The 2024 LDV MIFA is an interesting entry into the MPV market segment in Australia. Originally designed as an electric vehicle (EV) in the form of the MIFA 9 before being reverse-engineered to accommodate a petrol engine, this vehicle uses a unique design approach not seen on any other car on the market. The upcoming LDV GST ute is set to adopt the same approach, replacing the T60.
LDV’s focus on value, combined with an impressive feature set and competitive pricing, positions the MIFA as a strong contender against well-established models like the Hyundai Staria, Kia Carnival, Mercedes-Benz V-Class, and even the luxurious Lexus LM.
In this review we’re checkin out the mid-level MIFA Executive to determine if it is worthy of your consideration. This review vehicle was supplied to us by Central Coast LDV.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Specifications
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder
Output: 160kW@6000rpm / 360Nm
Gearbox: Eight-speed auto
Drive type: Front-wheel drive
Wheels: F & R: 19×7.5, 235/55
ANCAP: Five stars
Tare weight: 2093kgPower-to-weight: 8.20:1 (kg:kW)
Official consumption: 9.3L/100km
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 70L/91 RON
Power efficiency: 25.71kW:L/100km
0-100km/h: 9.51 seconds*
Starting price: $63,990
*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: How much does it cost?
One of the standout aspects of the LDV MIFA is its attractive pricing. Officially priced from $63,990 drive-away, the Executive is currently on offer from $55,671 drive-away, making it a very compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. For those looking to add a touch of personalisation, metallic paint is available for an additional $500, while a two-tone paint scheme costs $2000.
The entry-level Mode variant now comes in at a stunningly low $46,971, providing an affordable entry point into the MIFA range. The luxury-express Luxe version, priced from $63,501, offers additional features and comforts for those willing to spend a bit more.
LDV has also introduced a capped-price servicing plan, with service intervals every 10,000km or annually, whichever comes first. The service costs range from $265 to $547, ensuring that maintenance remains affordable over the long term.
Additionally, LDV provides a seven-year, 200,000km warranty and up to five years of roadside assistance. This should provide some peace of mind for buyers considering long-term ownership.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Key attractions/reasons to buy: Interior & packaging
The interior of the LDV MIFA Executive is designed to impress with its minimalist, clean, and futuristic aesthetic. The spacious cabin features a 2-2-3 seating configuration, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. However, it is important to note that the third row, when stowed, takes up considerable space, potentially limiting luggage capacity.
With dimensions spanning 5280mm in length, 1998mm in width, 1845mm in height, with a 3200mm wheelbase, this is a big vehicle. Fortunately, it translates to ample interior space, ensuring that passengers in all three rows enjoy plenty of legroom and headroom. It’s like a bus in here. The power sliding doors and electric tailgate add a touch of convenience.
The interior design is dominated by a floating centre console, a dash-mounted gear selector, and a two-spoke steering wheel, hinting at its EV origins. Pushing the brake pedal to start the engine is another unique feature that sets it apart from traditional petrol-powered vehicles.
Up on the dash is a 12.3-inch infotainment system presenting crisp graphics and reasonably intuitive menu flow. It also offers fine control of windows and sunroofs (yes, two), enhancing the wow-factor somewhat. The inclusion of a wireless phone charger, 220V/150W power socket in the back, and Apple CarPlay contributes to the vehicle’s practicality and ease of use, but unfortunately Android Auto is not included.
Is the LDV MIFA safe? Having earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating thanks to its comprehensive suite of active safety features, it would be reasonable to assume that yes, it meets the current segment standards. These include autonomous emergency braking with crash avoidance at both high and low speeds, collision mitigation for reversing with braking, and collision warning systems for rearward traffic. The vehicle is also equipped with rear cross-traffic alert, and collision mitigation systems for pedestrians.
In terms of vehicle control, the MIFA Executive features rollover stability control, hill descent control, hill holder, and electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as ABS and stability control. These systems work together to ensure vehicle stability and control under various driving conditions.
Driver assistance features are in equal abundance, including lane departure warning, active lane keeping assist, forward collision alert, and road sign display. The MIFA is also equipped with the annoying new driver fatigue warning system which is now mandatory, as well as side door exit warning, and blind-spot warning.
Parking assistance is comprehensive, with front and rear park distance sensors, graphical display for parking assistance, and front, rear, and side cameras. The cameras present pretty good detail, too, so you can keep an eye on those random toys on the driveway.
The tare mass of the MIFA Executive is 2093kg, and it offers a braked towing capacity of 2000kg (750kg unbraked), providing plenty of versatility for those who need to tow trailers or caravans. Boot space is generous, ranging from 466 litres to 2017 litres with the seats folded. But there is a big step.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Powertrain & handling
Under the stubby bonnet, the LDV MIFA is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 160kW of power and 360Nm of torque. This is paired with an Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the engine might lack the spirited character of the Kia Carnival’s V6, it performs admirably in everyday driving situations, offering a quiet and mostly refined driving experience. We managed to do a few 0-100km/h tests with the Vbox during our test drive, and it returned a best result of 9.51 seconds. Drivers have Normal, Power and Eco driving modes to toggle between to help provide an extra layer of versatility.
The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, making it a suitable choice for long journeys and family outings. The vehicle absorbs road imperfections with ease, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. However, those seeking a more engaging driving experience will be disappointed as this is just too soft to provide sturdy body stability and dynamic competence.
It wobbles when switching directions quickly, and the steering, while relaxed, isn’t engaging enough to supply a good level of feel or confidence. Instead, just take the calm route and sit back and relax. That’s what this vehicle is best at. If you regularly drive on tight country roads, dodging potholes and road debris and so on, you might want to check out some of the more dynamic options in this class.
Fuel efficiency isn’t one of the MIFA’s strong suits, with an official consumption figure of 9.3L/100km. For comparison, the Kia Carnival V6, producing 216kW, uses only a smidge more at 9.6L/100km, and you can option for a 2.2L diesel that sips 6.5L/100km. This requires 91 RON fuel, which will save costs in the long run. Filling its 70-litre tank gets you a theoretical average range of 752km. The official emissions output is 220g/km.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Key attractions/reasons to buy
- Competitive pricing: The LDV MIFA Executive offers excellent value for money with its recent price deals, making it the most cost-effective option in its class.
- Comprehensive safety features: It’s good to see even budget models fitted with the full suite of safety gear. The MIFA has enough to pass, and has passed, ANCAP’s 5-star standards.
- Spacious and practical interior: The generous dimensions and versatile seating configuration provide ample space for passengers and cargo.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Key considerations before you buy
- Third-row space limitation: When stowed, the third-row seats take up considerable space, which can limit maximum practicality.
- Driving refinement: Although it is very smooth and comfortable, the suspension could do with some Aussie-focused tuning to help it soak up average country roads and to improve handling.
- Ageing engine and mediocre economy: The 2.0-litre turbo, while competent, is starting to show its age compared with newer powertrains on the market; peak and low-down torque is not impressive and consumption is reasonably high for its size and power.
2024 LDV MIFA Executive: Video
How does it rate against its rivals?
- Price
- Quality look & feel
- Interior tech
- Powertrain performance
- Ride & handling
- X-factor (does it stand out in its class?)
Final word
The 2024 LDV MIFA Executive is the most ambitious and strongest product LDV has launched in Australia in our opinion. With an extensive feature set and unique engineering approach, it is certainly an interesting option in the MPV market. While it may not offer the same driving dynamics as some of its competitors, it excels in comfort, practicality, and value for money.
