Minivans (translated from English - "small vans", "minivans") - class cars for big families. Used for active urban use and long-distance travel. Larger and more spacious than sedans and hatchbacks. They have a lower ground clearance and a smaller arsenal of off-road technologies compared to SUV-class cars. The main distinguishing features are a one-volume body, a spacious interior, no more than 8 seats for passengers.
Differences between a compact van and a minivan
A compact van is a smaller, lighter and more economical city car. Released on platforms cars, more often related to the C + segment. It happens 6- and 7-seater, but 4 passengers + 1 driver - optimal amount people in the salon. The third row of seats is designed for small children.
Main advantages
- Spacious salon. Salons of minivans differ not only big amount free space, but also a lot of additional shelves and niches for things. Easily transformable from 5- to 7- or 8-seater and vice versa. Cars have a roomy trunk, the volume of which can always be increased by folding the rear seats. The minivan is suitable for traveling, as well as for transporting bulky and long cargo.
- Availability of security systems. Most of the best minivans for families meet high safety requirements. Have many electronic assistants and assistants, for example: adaptive cruise control, a system for monitoring "blind" zones and recognition of signs of maximum speed, etc. Supplied with a set of airbags, including additional side ones.
- Lots of options. Almost every minivan offers a huge selection of accessories. This applies to additional amenities for the driver and passengers of the second and third rows of seats. These include: heating and massage systems, climate control with adjustments for several zones, etc.
About the disadvantages
- Large size and weight. Vans are larger and heavier than conventional vans. passenger cars. This negatively affects fuel consumption and the overall maneuverability of the vehicle. Makes it difficult to park, drive in a cramped yard, etc.
- High price. Family cars are more expensive than platform station wagons with similar engines and gearboxes. They have less attractive price tags compared to budget sedans, characterized by spacious interiors and voluminous trunks, for example:, Chevrolet Cobalt, .
Features of choice
When choosing family car mobile in the back of a minivan, you need to pay attention to the following defining points:
- availability of security systems;
- free space in the cabin and trunk volume;
- quality of materials used in the interior;
- the presence of additional pockets, drawers, niches for various things;
- ease of folding and unfolding chairs;
- minivans with automatic transmission are preferred
- efficiency, sufficient power and high-torque motor.
Reviews models of the best minivans
7-seater car of the French brand with a 2840 mm wheelbase. It has an impressive 645-liter trunk. When folding the rear row of seats, this figure increases to 704 liters. dimensions- 4602 by 2117 by 1638 mm.
The car is different high level equipment. It is completed with a 7-inch multimedia complex with a built-in 3D navigation system.
On Russian market French manufacturer Citroen offers 3 engines and 2 gearboxes to choose from. Top option – petrol turbo engine THP150 with technology direct injection. Working volume - 1.6 liters. Max Power is 150 hp This 16-valve engine is paired with an adaptive automatic transmission.
Video: C4 Grand Picasso — Citroen test drive from InfoCar.ua (C4 Grand Picasso)
The Grand C4 Picasso was named Car of the Year 2017 in the compact van category. Its starting price tag reflects the amount of 1.5 million rubles.
Excellent value for money.
A wide range of options.
Economical engines.
harmonious exterior.
- Low dynamic performance.
Toyota Alphard
Status family car class "minivan". It has many positive features of premium sedans and SUVs. Suitable for family vehicle and a representative car for frequent trips to business meetings and other events.
The interior of Alphard is made of expensive materials. The basis is perforated leather. Separate elements are decorated with wooden inserts. In the most expensive configuration, OTTOMAN chairs with ventilation and a large number of electrical adjustments are installed. The chairs are equipped with a heating system.
In the Russian Federation, cars are supplied with a non-alternative V6. This motor with the 2GR-FE index develops 275 hp. with a 3.5 liter volume. Works together with a 6-band "automatic".
Video: Toyota Alphard - review by Mikhail Petrovsky
The base cost of the car is 3.6 million rubles, which is almost 1.5 million more expensive than advanced ones. The price of the luxury version of the Alphard Executive Lounge reaches 4,500 thousand rubles.
Luxurious and comfortable car.
Convenient and beautiful salon, this is one of the largest minivans.
Powerful and economical atmospheric motor.
Many amenities and additional accessories for the driver and passengers.
- Inconsistent design.
- High cost compared to competitors.
Family utility vehicle brand Peugeot. Competitor for station wagons and compact vans, rather than for minivans. Compared to Citroen and Toyota, it is sold at a more affordable price. The base price tag, taking into account promotions and special offers, is 1 million rubles. The real initial cost is about 1.2 million rubles. Price comparable to .
IN standard equipment Active offers 2 airbags in the front + 2 on the sides, AFU and ABS systems, a multimedia complex with 4 speakers, heated front seats, air conditioning, etc.
More expensive version machine called Outdoor is supplemented with the following options:
- Climate system for 2 zones.
- Front armrest.
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel.
- Redesigned front bumper, etc.
One of the main features of the more expensive Peugeot is the "Improved flotation" package. It includes: enlarged ground clearance, reinforced suspension, four-wheel drive, other 16-inch wheels.
Partner Tepee is equipped with a 120-horsepower 1.6 engine. The motor works with 5-speed "mechanics". There are no other options for the Russians.
Democratic price.
Good adaptability to Russian conditions operation.
Sufficient level of comfort.
- Poor equipment.
- Low power motor.
- Modest interior.
Mercedes V— class
Large minivan from the German automaker, suitable for both business trips and family trips with a high level of comfort. Developed in accordance with the new design concept. It has a branded "Mercedes" grille, beautiful headlights. It looks the most stylish and harmonious against the background of other minivans on the Russian market.
Sold in several versions: short, long and extra long. The cost of the car depends on the wheelbase, engine power, equipment level. starting price- 2.97 million rubles. Special version a utility vehicle called VIP costs about 16 million rubles.
The choice is offered 211-horsepower V4 with a maximum torque of 350 Nm. The engine has a single-stage turbocharger and a direct injection system. Also for Mercedes V class several variants of diesel engines are offered with a capacity of 136 hp, 163 hp. and 190 hp The motors are co-aggregated with 2 gearboxes to choose from - a 6-speed "mechanics" and a 7-band automatic transmission 7G-Tronic Plus.
Video: Mercedes-Benz V-class V250 Bluetec — Family van test drive via ATDrive
A large number of modifications and configurations to choose from.
Beautiful recognizable design from Mercedes.
Luxurious interior.
High build quality.
- High price.
- High maintenance cost.
Chrysler Grand Voyager
The only model sold under brand Chrysler on the Russian market. Is full size minivan increased level of comfort. Grand Voyager is a strong, imposing and overweight "American" with a 283-horsepower V6 and a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The car is well equipped. It has a huge 7-seater salon with many niches, shelves, pockets, drawers. The car is great for family purposes and travel. Of all the new minivans in Russia Chrysler Grand Voyager stands out with a 934-liter trunk with all seats installed.
The initial cost of the North American minivan is 3.3 million rubles. The basic configuration of the machine provides climate control for 3 zones, a camera rear view, heated seats and much more.
Practical and comfortable car.
Spacious interior and huge trunk.
Powerful V6.
- Inconspicuous appearance.
— Suspension with low energy intensity.
— Big expense fuel.
- Delayed "automatic".
About choosing a good minivan
Grand C4 Picasso is better all suitable for the role of an everyday car for a large family. This is a comfortable, practical and moderately expensive car with several engines to choose from. WITH Citroen model Peugeot competes, but the second "Frenchman" is more tailored for cargo transportation. It has the weakest engine among other models.
V-Class is a luxury minivan with high dynamic performance, which is more interesting than offers from Toyota and Chrysler. It is ahead of competitors due to its stylish exterior, wide engine range and rich equipment level. However, for a Mercedes in a good configuration, you will have to pay a tidy sum.
Buying a car is a responsible business, especially when it comes to a family car. I would like to please all members of the family, even the interests of a four-legged pet must be taken into account! How to choose a seven-seater car for the whole family so that no one is offended?
So, before you rush about in search family car need to prioritize. What is really important for a family chariot?
- Safety is undeniable. Your children will drive in the car, which means that the risks must be minimized, all modern facilities security;
- Profitability. Quite possibly. The family budget must be protected from unnecessary spending;
- Spaciousness. If you have seven on benches, then it will be crowded in a small sedan;
- Comfort. Of course, you can save on it, but you will have to suffer every time on the road from heat or cold, from jammed doors or the inability to automatically open windows. Why constantly listen to complaints from loved ones?
- Price. When buying a family car, most people choose the cheaper option.
We figured out the main characteristics, now let's talk in more detail about buying a car.
New or old car?
New cars are expensive. Used ones are much cheaper. But are they more economical? Wouldn't it be necessary then every month to tear off a “piece” from the family budget to fix an old car? Yes, there are security issues with these cars. Therefore, if you have already decided to buy a used car, then carefully diagnose it, but rather do it on a special modern equipment from which any flaw, even hidden, will not hide.
Sedan or minivan?
City cars are nimble, economical, and parking with them is a pleasure (thanks to their compact size). Again, the price is low. It would seem that, perfect car. But! If you have a large family, then you will be very crowded in a sedan. And if you are going on a picnic or to the country, then you will simply have nowhere to put your luggage.
The minivan can comfortably accommodate up to seven people plus a dog. It has a roomy trunk, which can be expanded with folding seats. In a minivan, even the longest journey will be easy and pleasant. It will not get stuck off-road, and everything is in order with safety.
But such a machine has disadvantages. Fuel consumption will not save family money. in the city with large sizes the vehicle is more difficult to maneuver and park. In addition, the cost of such cars is high.
Can choose wagon?
When choosing between the roominess of minivans and the practicality of sedans, take a closer look at station wagons. They have a spacious trunk. But at the same time, maneuverability does not suffer. The car drives great in the city. But you can safely go to the cottage on it. Cars are more economical than minivans. The price is acceptable.
Whatever car you choose, the first thing to think about is safety. There is no need to risk the lives of your closest and dearest people.
Seven-seat cars: minivan Toyota Verso
Launch of the model on the market in 2009
In 2009, at the Geneva Motor Show, Toyota introduced new minivan, which was positioned as a successor to the hitherto very famous and popular Toyota Corolla Spacio. The new model was introduced in 5- and 7-seater variants, with a typical body color in gray and light blue metallic, as well as two basic four-cylinder gasoline engines (1.6-liter 1ZR FAE and 1.8-liter 2ZR FAE) and two options four-cylinder diesel engines (1AD-FTV with a volume of 2.0 liters and 2AD-FHV with a volume of 2.2 liters).
Traditional high quality inherent in cars Toyota, found its embodiment in the Verso model. Excellent design, corresponding to high European standards, comfortable lounge and modern equipment character traits this car, which immediately attracted the attention of motorists. The new model at that time immediately gained popularity, so it is not surprising that Toyota engineers continued to work on improving the Verso.
Restyling Toyota Verso in 2015
We can observe the result of this work in the updated Toyota Verso 2015. In particular, we are talking about the emergence of new 16-inch rims, which are equipped with cars in the configuration "Elegance" and "Comfort Plus". They form the sporty character of the design, which becomes even more noticeable when you look at the new radiator grilles. Stylish headlights, rear bumper with integrated diffuser and original fenders. Completing the beauty of the design changes are LED daytime running lights that have been added to the head optics of the 7-seat car.
The changes also affected the color palette, which is represented by a “bronze metallic”, emphasizing the vigor of the new Toyota Verso. In addition, the car received new finish interior, or rather, seat upholstery in the above trim levels. But much has remained unchanged. This applies to the excellent functionality of the Verso interior, which is achieved through the use of the original Toyota Easy Flat-7 transformation system. It allows you to arrange the seats in 32 various options, depending on the size and needs of the car owner's family. Moreover, we are not talking about how to fit into the salon. It is spacious enough to find comfort during the trip, regardless of the anthropometric data of the driver and passengers. This can be confirmed by almost a meter distance between the first and second row of seats of a 7-seater car.
Exterior, interior and features of Toyota Verso
It is also worth paying attention to the equipment of the car interior. In particular, here is new system Toyota Touch 2 (for Prestige, Comfort Plus, Elegance trim levels), which includes a 6.1-inch color touch screen. It is capable of playing videos in enough high resolution(800x480 pixels), and is also a control element for multimedia system car. In addition, you can use it to control your smartphone by turning on the MirrorLink function. This screen provides access to e-mail, navigation system, music collection, phone book, and you can manage all this by using the familiar and very convenient sliding movement for scrolling through the menu.
In general, the interior of the cabin has remained unchanged, but changes can be seen in the details. For example, in the new Verso we see softer and more pleasant to the touch plastics, new silver inserts and white dashboard lights. Seems very interesting inner space glove compartment, which is filled with a large number of various pockets and compartments that allow you to place various little things. Another noteworthy trunk of the new Verso. Its initial volume is 155 liters, but if you fold the third row of seats, the volume almost triples, to 440 liters.
As for the technical “stuffing” of the model in question, here we notice two options for gasoline engines equipped with the Valvematic system (1.6 and 1.8 liters, with a capacity of 132 hp and 147 hp, respectively). The transmission in both versions is mechanical, 6-speed. However, there is another variation - with automatic transmission Multidrive, which is paired with a 1.8 liter engine. In addition, there are three variations of diesel engines, with a volume of 2.0 and 2.2 liters, with a capacity of 124, 148 and 175 hp. Distinctive feature of all engines of the new Verso is economical fuel consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
Despite its appearance, in which notes of a sporty and even slightly aggressive design are noticeable, the 2015 Toyota Verso is still designed for a comfortable, but by no means high-speed ride. To accelerate to 100 km / h, the new Verso will need as much as 11 seconds, but this is not the most important thing. The main thing is comfort, which is maintained even when the car is moving at high speed. It is also impossible not to note the excellent handling of the car. In general, for those who are looking for an inexpensive and very high quality family minivan, Toyota Verso 2015 will fit perfectly.
7 seater vehicles: Ford Galaxy minivan
fourth generation family ford car Galaxy is a larger 7 local minivan than the five-seater Ford S-Max II. At the same time, the appearance of the car was adjusted to the new corporate standards of the American automaker.
Ford Galaxy Exterior
From the front, the signature large radiator grille in the form of a hexagon with transverse ribs immediately catches the eye. Below is a fairly large air intake and large foglights on the sides. The sloping hood demonstrates the one-volume body of the model. Head optics also matches the new corporate identity of the American brand.
In profile, the minivan looks large family car. The increase in the glazing area is clearly visible, which adds visibility to all passengers, who, by the way, fit 7 people. The chrome bar under the glass looks solid. Traditional for latest generations For Ford models, the sagging at the bottom of the doors is also present in the Ford Galaxy. 
The stern of the car is also distinguished by the large glass of the fifth door, which is also visually extended due to the black area to the license plate. Optics is made in two colors and looks very stylish. The luggage compartment door is large, giving easy access to luggage.
The interior of the Ford Galaxy minivan
The salon is comfortable and progressive. The center console, smoothly turning into a tunnel, is not overloaded with keys. Instruments on the panel are large and easy to read. Interesting vertical air ducts in the center of the dashboard. Traditionally for a minivan, the cabin is very flexible, the two rear rows of seats can be folded into various configurations, providing more space for luggage.
Complete set and characteristics
The car is completed with two petrol engines in 1500 and 2000 cm3. (each equipped with a turbine) and 4 diesels in 2000 cm3. every. The latter give out from 120 to 210 hp. depending on the turbine settings. With such motors, the car shows good dynamics. All of them correspond to Euro-6.
Family car Opel Zafira Family
Today Opel Zafira can be considered the most affordable family minivan. But, despite the cost, its design is far from the most ordinary. This car is just a godsend for the family. Seven-seater Opel car Zafira is based on small sedan Opel Astra. This model is direct Renault competitor Grand Scenic, Mazda 5, Volkswagen Touran and Ford Galaxy.
Interior and exterior
The main advantage of the Zafira, like other minivans over conventional sedans, is a large spacious convertible interior and a third row of seats, which allows you to transport a cheerful group of friends or a large family. With the third row of seats folded down, the Zafira has a large trunk volume, and if the second row is folded down, then small furniture can be transported. Volume luggage compartment to the back of the third row of seats - 140 liters, to the back of the second row of seats - 645, and to the backs of the front seats - 1070.
The driver's landing, as in many minivans, is high. good review even wide side racks do not interfere, but at the same time inexperienced driver may lose a pedestrian or a small object behind them. The mirrors are small, from an Opel Astra, but they have a good view. Dashboard and door cards are made of non-squeaky, soft plastic. The design is quite simple, but in German is understandable and ergonomic. You won't have to get used to the location of the buttons and switches. Of the minuses, one can note the absence of additional glove compartments and compartments for small items, as well as mechanical power windows in low trim levels.
Characteristics of the minivan Opel Zafira
Main power units- this is a 1.6 petrol engine with a capacity of 116 and 1.8 with a capacity of 140 Horse power. Less commonly found with diesel turbocharged engines of 1.7 (110 and 125 hp) and 1.9 (100, 120 and 150 hp). Opel Zafira can be found with a 1.6 engine running on natural gas, but quite rarely, as in Russia official sale there was no such model. For lovers of more powerful cars there are 2.2-liter engines with a capacity of 150 horsepower, as well as an even more powerful turbocharged two-liter with 200 horsepower. But all this did not become the limit. In 2001, Opel introduced the Zafira OPC with a sporty feel. The main driving force was a two-liter engine from the Astra Coupe with a capacity of 240 horses.
Generally diesel engines reliable, their only enemy is poor quality diesel fuel. Fuel system The presented engines are different, the one that is less sensitive to fuel, and the one that is more powerful is more repairable and reliable.
Gearboxes for Zafira are five-speed manual and five-speed robotic (Easytronic). The robot box can be used in both mechanical mode, as well as automatic. The main reason for the failure of such a box is clutch wear. Careful driving can prolong clutch life.
Suspension on the Zafira is fairly simple and solid, with L-arms and McPherson struts at the front and a bouncy beam at the rear. During operation, it is necessary to change basically only the stabilizer struts. Quite expensive ones fail occasionally wheel bearings, which change only in assembly with the hub.
Safety
In terms of safety, this car will give odds to many others. According to the results of testing EuroNCAP Zafira scored 5 stars - the maximum number of possible. And this is not surprising, because Zafira in any configuration has eight airbags, a safety pedal assembly and active head restraints.
In conclusion, we can note the very low stealing of the Opel Zafira. The purchased car can be safely left in the parking lot or in the yard without worrying about its safety.
7 local cars: Chevrolet Orlando
Among family cars large capacity one model that stands apart from the rest of the seven-seater cars draws attention to itself - this is Chevrolet Orlando. It has a deliberately American design, which today is a rarity even for auto brands from across the ocean. Those cars are interesting.
Appearance
Front model looks wide big car, which it is. Huge light blocks of optics, containing the actual headlights and large door collars, are in harmony with the same huge brand emblem located on the classic Chevrolet double grille. At the same time, the lower air intake is small. Moreover, it is combined with a black zone in the lower part of the front end, therefore it looks even smaller. Windshield has an impressive size, giving the driver and passengers a chic visibility. The hood is quite embossed. And yes, it is big in size.
When looking at the profile, you can immediately tell that the car is large. At the same time, its deliberate angularity seems to oppose itself to the current canons of machine design. However, this pleases lovers of American design. After all, there are fewer and fewer cars like this. With large dimensions and angularity, the car does not look overweight. The rising and narrowing glazing line facilitates the appearance. The wheel arches were not intentionally made deliberately muscular, although they already look large. At first glance, large doors provide easy access to the salon.
Behind the car is no less expressive. The sheer back door in the same American style, as well as large angular optics lights, do not leave anyone indifferent. Everything is kept in the same style.
Interior and equipment Chevrolet Orlando
Salon roomy and spacious. The center console is very interesting, as if having a third floor above the dashboard. The dashboard is large, which allows you to clearly display all the required information. Enough space for all seven riders. And the trunk is rather big, however, with the back row folded down.
In the base, the car is equipped with a 1800 cc gasoline engine and a six-speed "mechanics". But a 2000 cc diesel is also offered, paired with a six-band “automatic”.
Comparison table of main characteristics
And in conclusion, we present a summary table of the main characteristics of all four considered family cars.
What are we comparing
- Body length. You will be able to understand how big a family car you are getting. We don’t care about other body parameters - the width will be normal (it’s not a Hummer), the height will be enough for everyone: it’s clear from the picture that minivans are quite tall cars.
- Trunk. Perhaps this is generally the first indicator for a seven-seater car. And, most importantly, it is important to see the trunk in a state where all 7 seats are raised. The second parameter (through the "slash") is "the volume of the trunk with the seats folded." It will give an understanding in general about the usable volume of a family car.
- Fuel. For information. The presence of a diesel configuration is an obvious plus for a family car. Exactly diesel versions was given preference when choosing a configuration in the comparison table.
- Consumption. Allows you to estimate the cost of fuel costs for a family car.
- Pillows. Number of airbags. A rather indirect indicator of the level of safety, but the more pillows, the better? In fairness, it should be said that the maximum number of pillows can vary from configuration to configuration. For Toyota Verso, 7 seats are provided only for the maximum top version. In all other cases, we preferred the cheaper option.
- Price. An approximate idea of the price of a new seven-seater car in millions of rubles.
Minivans are very popular today all over the world, and especially in Europe and Asia. The very concept of "minivan" is very vague. A minivan can be defined as a car with a one- or one-and-a-half-volume body layout - the hood flows smoothly into the roof.
In a word, the literal translation from English is a mini-van.
In terms of dimensions, most minivans fall under category “C”: their weight does not exceed 3 and a half tons, and the number of passenger seats is limited to eight. That is, it is a family station wagon with increased cross-country ability.
The Japanese company Toyota, as one of the world leaders, produces enough a large number of minivans, which we will talk about.
The Toyota Prius+, also known as the Toyota Prius V, is a vehicle specially designed for Europe. It is available as a seven- and five-seater station wagon.
This minivan runs on a hybrid setup and is the most popular hybrid in the world.
According to many experts, it looks much more harmonious than the Toyota Prius hatchback.
hybrid power point consists of petrol and electric motors, developing 98 and 80 horsepower, respectively. Thanks to this, the car is very economical and consumes no more than six liters of fuel in the urban cycle. When braking and driving gasoline engine batteries are continuously charged.
But in spite of everything positive traits of this hybrid minivan, the engine does not have the necessary power for a car weighing about 1500 kg.
Toyota Verso
There are two versions of this minivan:
- compact van Toyota Verso (built on the basis of Toyota Corolla);
- microvan - Toyota Verso-S(on Toyota base Yaris).
Both of these cars are indicative in their class, so the Verso-S has the best aerodynamic performance - coefficient drag 0,297.
In addition, despite the compact dimensions - length 3990 - the microvan has quite roomy interior designed for five. IN combined cycle the engine consumes only 4.5 liters of gasoline.
Its older brother - Toyota Verso - is only 46 centimeters longer. There is enough space for five people, although it is desirable that the fifth passenger be a child.
The compact van is delivered to Russia with quite powerful gasoline engines of 132 and 147 horsepower. In Germany, you can order diesel options (126 and 177 hp).
Both that and other car on the exterior and an interior completely correspond to modern concepts about profitability and ergonomics. In a word, if you can pay from 1.1 to 1.6 million rubles, then the Toyota Verso will be an excellent family car.
Toyota Alphard
Toyota Alphard is a premium minivan. There are versions designed for 7 or 8 passengers. Main features: spacious interior and roomy luggage compartment for 1900 liters. This is achieved thanks to a length of 4875 millimeters and a wheelbase of 2950 mm.
Alphard premium is due to the following options:
- 7 airbags;
- stabilization system;
- electric seats of the first and second rows;
- xenon and;
- three-zone;
- ceiling 9-inch display of the multimedia system;
- leather trim.
Engines, depending on the configuration: 2.4 or 3.5-liter (168 and 275 hp). The latter consumes about 10-11 liters in the combined cycle per hundred kilometers - this is not a bad indicator for a 7-seater van, which accelerates to hundreds of km / h in 8.3 seconds. All configurations available in Russia are equipped with automatic boxes gears. Max speed- 200 kilometers per hour.
Toyota Sienna
This car is not officially delivered to Russia, but it can be ordered through. This compact van of the 2013-2014 model will cost from 60 thousand dollars or 3.5 million rubles.
Sienna also belongs to the Premium segment. In a spacious cabin, 7 people, including the driver, will feel comfortable.
Even in the basic configuration of the XLE, there is the whole Mince: climate control, sun protection windows, heated windshield washers, power windows, a removable third row of seats, on-board computer, immobilizer, rear view camera and much more.
The 3.5-liter engine produces 266 horsepower at its peak. With a fully loaded weight of 2.5 tons, the engine consumes 14 liters of gasoline in the city and 10 on the highway. There are all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive options, but all of them are equipped with an automatic transmission.
The vehicle is geared towards American market sales and was developed in Georgetown (Kentucky).
Toyota Hiace (Toyota Hi Ace) was originally produced as a commercial minibus, but a shortened passenger version for 7 seats + driver was developed specifically for the European market.
This is a multi-purpose vehicle, the rows of seats can be removed and we will see cargo van, capable of taking 1180 kilograms of payload.
In the cabin, everything is thought out to the smallest detail, each chair is equipped with seat belt, there are latches specifically for child seats (read how to install them correctly). For the convenience of passengers, the cabin is equipped with sound-absorbing materials. If desired, the number of passenger seats can be increased to 12, but in this case, you must have a category "D" license.
The minivan is powered by 2.5-liter diesel engines with 94 and 115 horsepower. There is also a three-liter diesel engine with 136 hp. Consumption is 8.7 liters in the combined cycle.
All engines are paired with mechanical boxes gears.
The convenience of boarding and disembarking passengers is provided by a sliding side door. Prices for Hi Ace start from two million rubles.
RHD minivans Toyota
Two models of Toyota minivans are produced exclusively for domestic use in Japan. They are not officially supplied to Russia, but they can be purchased through or at the car markets of the Far East. These are the following models:
- Toyota Wish - 7-seater minivan;
- Toyota Previa (Estima) - 8-seater minivan.
There are also models that are no longer produced, but they can still be seen on the roads: Toyota Corolla Spacio (the predecessor of Toyota Verso), Toyota Ipsum, Toyota Picnic, Toyota Gaia, Toyota Nadia (Toyota Nadia).
This list can go on and on, but if, for example, we stop at the same Toyota Nadia, which was produced from 1997 to 2001, we will see that the designers tried to combine an SUV, station wagon and minivan in one single-volume vehicle. Today, such a left-hand drive car manufactured in 2000 will cost from 250 thousand rubles.
Small and roomy cars are popular not only as a family car, but also as a commercial option in small businesses. The Toyota minivan family consists of several different models. Many of them have already taken root in their families. Russian roads, and some are available only with right-hand drive and are distributed mainly in the Far East and Siberia, for example, Toyota Alphard (Toyota Alphard).
Compact seven-seater minivan Toyota Wish equipped with 1.8L engines automatic transmission and 2.0 liters with a CVT and is distinguished by economical fuel consumption (an average of 6.3 liters / 100 km). The WISH all-wheel drive model has been produced since 2003 with a left-hand drive, but there is no official delivery to Russia, so most often we get a right-hand drive version. On secondary market its cost is from 395,000 to 750,000 rubles.
Toyota Corolla Spacio is the smallest among its classmates
The Corolla Spasio is a 4-door, seven-seat compact minivan. The cabin of the first generation Spacio actually accommodated 6 adult passengers, and in addition there was one child seat. The second generation of 2001 has a longer body length, which is 4300 mm, due to this, there is more space in the cabin. The third row of seats has a small thickness of the seats and backs, only 70mm, but it can accommodate adult passengers, although it will not be very comfortable there on long trips. In 2004, they began to produce a new Corolla Verso model, which is still being produced today, and the Spacio has been discontinued since 2005. The price of the baby Spasio with a mileage of 240 to 450 thousand rubles.
New Toyota Siena 2010-2011 model year is a seven-seater minivan with a comfortable and convenient interior, which has many different options seat transformations, creating maximum comfort when traveling at any distance. It is known that in the basic configuration, costing $24,260, it will be equipped with a 2.7l (187hp) engine. The price of the LE configuration with a 3.5l V6 engine (266hp) is $26,200. This model will not leave anyone indifferent. beautiful appearance, rich equipment, excellent specifications and most importantly at an affordable price.
Stylish design and comfortable interior of the Toyota Estima minivan in combination with excellent cross-country ability are undeniable advantages when choosing a family car. Estima is available in several modifications and with different engines. But most buyers are attracted all-wheel drive models with a 2.4l engine (170hp) in combination with a variator and 3.5l (208hp) with an automatic transmission, in which the ground clearance is 170mm. The spacious cabin can comfortably accommodate 7 people, and the transformation of the seats will allow you to get comfortable not only on a trip, but also equip sleeping area for relax. You will also be pleased with the modern equipment of the machine, including Cruise control, parking sensors, rear view camera, passive and active security systems.
Some models of these cars have already been discontinued, but are still sold on the secondary market. In addition, a used Toyota minivan is much cheaper. For example, Estima 2003 costs 530,000 rubles.
It is clear that a used car requires immediately certain investments in repairs. Most often you have to change the oil, filters, some parts running system, the main thing is that the engine, gearbox, as well as the main important knots and the parts were in good condition. After all, their repair or replacement is an expensive and troublesome business. But given the quality and reliability Toyota, you can safely buy used cars, because they are designed for many years of operation.
Toyota is at the top right now. automotive production in Japan, although it all started with the release of banal looms. The year 1933 was decisive, when a division aimed at manufacturing cars stood out from the company. At its head was Kiichiro Toyoda, who traveled to the United States and Europe in advance to gain experience.
It is noteworthy that in the entire history of Toyota there was only one strike of workers - in 1950. The 50s became a period of elevation - developments were carried out, new models were created ( Land cruiser, Crown, etc.), and also entered the US market.
In 1982, they created the Camry model, and a little later - Corolla II, Corsa and 4Runner. In addition, it was in the 80s that the luxury division of the concern, the brand, was organized. Now Toyota's capacity is about 5,500,000 cars a year.
Official website of Toyota in Russia.
Cars have become an integral part of our lives, so with each generation they become more powerful, more economical, more energetic, smarter and more functional. The car has long become more than just a means of transportation. One of prominent representatives quality, reliability and spaciousness is - Toyota Fortuner.
The Toyota Hiace is the standard hard worker. These cars are bought for work, not for the soul. Unpretentious and hardy, relatively inexpensive and no frills, quite powerful and comfortable minibus - all this predetermined its undoubted success in the market!
