As summer approaches, many manufacturers, such as Honda or Mitsubishi, are introducing new minivans to the market. There is nothing surprising in such seasonality, because, as practice shows, this type of car in many countries sells better in the warmer seasons. Russia is no exception. Minivans are not in mass demand here, but there is a certain interest in them.
What should be the guideline for a Russian who is buying a minivan for the first time and does not want to spend too much? Is it possible in Russia to purchase a new and quite decent minivan for less than, say, 1.5 million rubles?
Expert opinions
What should we be guided by?
Lack of choice on the market, because we have so many minivans that you can count them on your fingers. Only a few manufacturers offer their products, among which there is even AvtoVAZ, if you call it a minivan with some stretch Lada Largus. Is there some more Citroen Grand Picasso. The rest, by and large, are not minivans, but mid-size vans, which cost completely different money. So the whole choice leans towards these two models.
As for the secondary market, picking up a family car there, and a minivan is considered just that, is not serious. This is the third year that we have seen cars come onto the secondary market that are so worn out that they invariably create a lot of problems for their new owners. Recommend a minivan on secondary market I just can't, it would be irresponsible. If you’ve already decided to buy something for the family on the secondary market, then it’s better to take a large seven-seat crossover.
In fact, it’s difficult to buy a decent minivan for 1.5 million.
Lada Largus is not quite a minivan and not quite a decent one. On the secondary market, it is better to take a closer look at overseas products. It will, firstly, be the most spacious, like Dodge, Grand Voyager, etc., and secondly, it will not be so expensive. There is, say, a Toyota Alphard on the Russian market, but it costs incredible money. Therefore, on the secondary market you need to watch something American or the same Opel Zafira. The latter is one of the most practical and quite affordable options.
Yes, you can buy a decent inexpensive minivan, especially if you plan to use it actively and constantly.
And here there is no alternative - this is GAZ "Sobol"
.Rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, 4x4 - in any case, a good option, normal quality, Cummins engine, reliable French gearbox, in a word, a good option.
The second topic is Peugeot Partner. There is no alternative to him either. Yes, it costs a little more, but it's a real van. Everything else will be very, very expensive. For example, what VW produces are all very expensive cars. There are also vans built on the basis of light commercial vehicles, such as the same Ford Transit or Mercedes Benz Vito. Next comes “GAZelle NEXT”
Everything else is either high-capacity station wagons, or simply roomy cars designed for a larger number of passengers.
If you look by brand, you can choose Renault Espace or some Volkswagen Touran - in Europe these models are very, and deservedly, popular. In our market you can take a closer look at the Citroen Grand Picasso - quite available car good quality. Yes, it costs about 2 million, but with that BMW engine, what it has, and with a fairly problem-free A7 automatic hydraulic gearbox, this option is very good.
I personally switched to multivans a long time ago and I think that for a person with a family this is one of the most best cars. First I had a Volkswagen, now I have a Mercedes Benz. It is controlled like regular car, in terms of dimensions - like an executive car, at the same time, you always have a place where to seat children, relatives and load everything you need. On Friday evening, taking your international passport with you, you can safely go on a short trip to Europe in such a car.
A special class of passenger cars with increased capacity is called minivans. These cars are in high demand in Russia, where traditionally people like to travel with their whole family or big company. Today, automakers offer the most unexpected options, from compact minivans to large vans. Depending on the purpose and financial capabilities, you can choose the most suitable car for your family. As for spaciousness, the category of minivans includes cars with a number of seats from 5 to 8. For frequent trips over long distances, it is important that the trunk of the car can accommodate all the belongings of the driver and passengers. Therefore, you will have to look for a reasonable balance between body compactness and useful volume luggage compartment. What are the main points you should pay attention to when choosing a minivan?
- First of all, you should evaluate the spaciousness of the interior. Useful feature It will be possible to quickly transform from a 7- or 8-seater car into a 2-5-seater van with increased cargo capacity. So in a simple way some owners use the car not only for weekend trips out of town, but also as a small commercial vehicle. Caring manufacturers compensate for the limited trunk space with additional niches and shelves in the cabin.
- Since a family car carries many passengers, including children, important role availability plays modern systems security. Typically, manufacturers equip all passenger seats with front and side airbags. In addition, minivans are equipped with various electronic assistants, which make the driver’s work easier. These include the usual ABS, EBD, cruise control, blind spot monitoring system and lane control.
- IN long journey It's important to enjoy the ride. For this rear windows are tinted, a heating and air conditioning system is supplied to each passenger seat, and additional multimedia system screens are installed.
Our review included best minivans. When selecting cars for the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:
- appointment;
- functionality;
- price;
- expert opinion;
- consumer reviews.
TOP 10 best minivans
10 Chrysler Pacifica
Minivan with sporty design
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 3,899,000.
Rating (2019): 4.4
American engineers designed the Chrysler Pacifica family car in a sporty style. The fast design is emphasized by chrome elements, LED optics and 18-inch wheels. Everything in the cabin is done for a comfortable ride for the driver and passengers. All 7 seats are upholstered in premium Nappa leather. The minivan is recognized by the expert community as one of the safest in its class. About 100 systems built into cars are responsible for active and passive safety. For dynamic driving, a 6-cylinder petrol engine with a power of 279 hp is installed under the hood. With. Torque is distributed by an automatic 9-speed transmission. Thanks to this combination, the minivan accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds.
Users appreciate the comfort and sportiness Chrysler minivan Pacifica, calling the car a "yacht on wheels." The disadvantages of the machine include its high price and expensive operation.
9 Opel Zafira Tourer
Best price
Country: Germany
Average price: 818,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The third generation of the popular German compact van is Opel Zafira Tourer. Affordable price and small overall dimensions have become the main trump cards in the fight against competitors. The Tourer has a number of differences from the classic Zafira. First of all, modernization seriously affected the appearance. The car looks expensive and stylish. Users will also be pleased with the interior trim. In this budget car inner space looks practical and luxurious. One of 3 is installed under the hood turbodiesel engines(110, 130 and 165 hp), as well as gasoline unit 1.4 liters with a capacity of 124 and 130 hp. With. The engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic or 5- or 6-position manual transmission.
Owners of the compact minivan Opel Zafira Tourer note such advantages of the car as versatility, good driving performance and an affordable price. One of the disadvantages is the rough operation of diesel engines.
8 Toyota Alphard
The most prestigious family car
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 4,396,000.
Rating (2019): 4.5
Minivan from Japan Toyota Alphard is a status car. It has a number of positive qualities that are inherent in premium SUVs and sedans. Toyota can be used both for family trips and for business trips of executives. The car is supplied to our country only with a 3.5 liter petrol engine. Its power is 300 hp. s., and fuel consumption in the combined cycle exceeds 10 liters per 100 km. The interior feels luxurious, all materials are high quality and expensive. The basis of the upholstery and seats is perforated leather, and wooden inserts also look harmonious. A large number of options allows you to choose the optimal microclimate for each passenger.
Owners of the Japanese minivan Toyota Alphard are satisfied with its spaciousness, solidity and comfort. The disadvantages include the high price and high transport tax.
7 Peugeot Traveler
Solidity and romance
Country: France
Average price: RUB 2,069,000.
Rating (2019): 4.6
French automakers tend to make minivans with a romantic twist. Peugeot Traveler turned out to be a romantic with a solid appearance. Thanks to the 2.0 liter diesel engine, long trips will not become expensive, since diesel fuel consumption when driving on the highway is only 5.2-5.8 liters per 100 km. The car can be equipped with a manual or automatic transmission; efficiency is also determined by front-wheel drive. 7 seats are interestingly distributed across the rows, 3 seats are available in the last row. To prevent the driver from getting tired on the road, there is cruise control, lane control systems, the presence of objects in the blind spot, and a speed limiter.
The Peugeot Traveler minivan is a great family car. It combines the romanticism of the internal space with external solidity. Among the minuses, it is worth noting the insufficient protection of the interior from noise and problematic transformation.
6 Hyundai H-1
Multifunctionality and excellent controllability
Country: South Korea
Average price: RUB 1,994,000.
Rating (2019): 4.7
The Hyundai H-1 minivan earned the highest praise from experts for such qualities as versatility and good handling. The car behaves great both on the highway and in the city. And this is with a length of 5.2 m. Thanks to a turning radius of 5.67 m, the car can easily turn around even on a tight street. Korean minivans are great not only as a family car. 7 seats can be quickly transformed, leaving only 2 seats. The result is a huge cargo compartment, which many Russians use for commercial activities. The car comes only with a 2.5 liter diesel engine, which is complemented by a manual or automatic transmission.
Motorists call the Hyundai H-1 a Korean bestseller, which is distinguished by its versatility, affordable price and excellent handling. Among the disadvantages, users highlight the demanding quality of fuel and rear-wheel drive.
5 Ford Galaxy
Accessibility and spaciousness
A country: USA (assembled in Russia)
Average price: RUB 1,340,000.
Rating (2019): 4.7
Minivans Ford Galaxy well known to domestic motorists. The updated version continues to delight fans of family trips with its affordability and spaciousness. At the same time, you can travel in “first class” comfort. The car has a spacious trunk, even if you use all 7 seats, there will be enough space to carry luggage. The range of power units for Russian market. These are 2.0 liter (145 and 200 hp) and 2.3 liter (161 hp) petrol engines, as well as diesel version 2.0 l (140 hp). The designers clearly succeeded in its appearance; the car involuntarily attracts the attention of the participants traffic. After restyling, the car began to look more aggressive.
Car owners are satisfied with the spacious interior, affordable price, reliable Ford suspension Galaxy. From negative points It is worth highlighting oil leaks in engines, problems with the power steering pump.
4 Volkswagen Touran
The most popular minivan
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 1,247,000.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Very successful model invented by the designers of the Volkswagen automobile plant. I've been happy for more than 12 years domestic motorists the spaciousness and affordability of the Volkswagen Touran. Experts also appreciated it. In 2015, the minivan received the Euro NCAP award in the Small MPV category. And after restyling in 2017, the car was recognized as the best minivan in Russia. As befits a people's car, operation is inexpensive, since the engines consume very little fuel. Particularly pleasing is the consumption of the 2.0 liter diesel unit (5.4 liters per 100 km in mixed mode). The car is based on the famous Golf model, so the body is compact and maneuverable.
Users note such strengths of the Volkswagen Touran minivan as reliable engines, acceptable price, good quality assembly, spacious interior. The disadvantages of the car include poor sound insulation and hard seats.
3 Mercedes-Benz V-Class
A combination of sophistication and comfort
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 2,960,500.
Rating (2019): 4.8
A new design concept has given the minivan Mercedes-Benz V-Class sophisticated style that sets the car apart from its competitors. Thanks to its high level of comfort, the car is perfect for family trips and business trips. Its noble origin is revealed by its signature radiator grille and beautiful front optics. The minivan is offered in several body styles: short, long and extra long. Under the hood there can be one of three diesel units(136, 163 or 190 hp). To distribute torque, either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission can be used.
Owners German minivans Mercedes-Benz V-Class celebrates the recognizable design of the car, comfortable interior, reliable diesel engines. The disadvantages include frequent breakdowns handbrake and rapid wear tires in long-wheelbase modifications.
2 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
Economical family car
Country: France
Average price: RUB 1,734,000.
Rating (2019): 4.9
French family Citroen car The Grand C4 Picasso benefits from low fuel consumption. This allows the whole family to travel across the vast expanses of the country. In the line of power units, the 1.6 liter diesel engines stand out. Depending on the modification, they consume 4.0 or 4.3 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km of travel. At the same time, the engines are quite powerful (120 and 115 hp). A manual or automatic transmission is responsible for torque distribution. The car is well equipped; the 7-inch multimedia system will help you have a pleasant time on the road. The built-in 3D navigation system will plot the shortest route.
Motorists speak flatteringly about such qualities of the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso as efficiency, comfort, spacious interior, and rich equipment. Among the disadvantages, users note difficulties with servicing diesel engines and frequent burnout of low beam bulbs.
1 Toyota Venza
Optimal combination of price, capacity and maneuverability
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 2,190,000.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Despite the fact that the Toyota Venza minivan was developed for the North American market, it is also perfect for Russian roads. In the spacious cabin for travelers with different configurations there are 7 places available. Russian version Toyota has more soft suspension and a document. Cars with a 2.7 liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 185 hp are supplied to Russia. With. and automatic transmission. IN basic configuration there are 7 airbags, various systems control of car behavior while driving (ABS, EBD, Trac, VSC, HAC). Also standard equipment Toyota implies the presence of a multimedia system with a 6.1-inch color screen.
Motorists consider the Toyota Venza minivan from Japan to be a real family car. She looks modern, has good capacity, maneuverability and reliability. Users consider high fuel consumption and weak paintwork to be the disadvantages of the car.
An article about how to choose the right minivan, what to look for when choosing a family camper van. Tips and tricks. At the end of the article there is an interesting video about choosing a minivan.
The content of the article:
Not all Russian car enthusiasts know what a minivan is, although they often use this buzzword in conversations to describe modern cars.
However, those drivers who have used this type of vehicle know that a minivan is an excellent family camper. Its spacious interior allows you to transport up to nine people including the driver. Thanks to the large number of seats, this car can take a fairly large family on a trip, including both adults and children.
In addition, minivans are widely used for official purposes by various companies to transport small and medium-sized cargo. This car is also indispensable for long trips. Modern models have the most advanced technical developments: climate control, air conditioning, TV and many other useful functions.
Early family caravans were made using fairly simple technology, so their suspension was weak, the engine was underpowered, and comfort left much to be desired. This was explained by the fact that such a car was produced only for work purposes, and by purchasing it, car owners sought to save on its maintenance.
Modern RV manufacturing technology is now focused primarily on people. Therefore, the quality of the car and the comfort of its interior have improved many times over. New brands of minivans have excellent functionality and excellent driving performance.
And despite the fact that manufacturers do not cease to improve the models of these cars, their price remains affordable. Therefore, those drivers who prefer a minivan for one reason or another do not worry about the cost of repairs or purchasing a new car.
Criteria for choosing a family minivan
Buying a minivan should be taken very seriously. Even though the price of this car is relatively low, nevertheless, you will have to pay a tidy sum to purchase it, and this is a serious matter.
It is better for a private driver to choose a minivan together with his family members, because, as we have already said, a minivan for private ownership is a family car. Therefore, comfort for the whole family comes first. Companies purchasing such cars should, when choosing, focus on its spaciousness.
Let's consider the main points for choosing a minivan wisely:
- the price of the car and planned maintenance costs;
- number of seats and luggage compartment capacity;
- assessment of engine power, suspension quality and drive type;
- installation by the manufacturer of functional equipment that provides convenient control and comfort inside the car.
The dimensions of modern vans are almost no larger than those of other vehicles. middle category regardless of whether it is a hatchback or a station wagon or a sedan. Therefore, the owner of a minivan cannot worry about maneuverability in city traffic jams or in tight parking lots.
Moreover, the individual design of this vehicle increases its safety, and the high seating position ensures good review, so a minivan is simply irreplaceable when transporting passengers.
Now let’s look at the ten best minivans, from which you can choose a very worthy campervan.
Ten best minivans worth buying
Despite the fact that this car only took tenth place in the ranking, it is quite an excellent minivan. Its design will appeal to both adults and little members of your family. This minivan was released in 2010 and immediately captivated car enthusiasts with its functional qualities and design features.
For example, driver's doors and the doors for passengers open in different directions, which is very convenient when boarding. This is due to the fact that the passenger door hinges are attached to the rear of the body. Plus, thanks to this door design, the space for passengers in the cabin has significantly increased. The trunk opens almost 90 degrees, which gives additional convenience during its operation. This minivan has a power of 140 hp and its engine capacity is 1.4 liters.
Five doors and compactness are the first features of this minivan, released in 2009. Due to its small dimensions, this minivan is classified as class “B”, but at the same time it is one of the best cars in this class. In any case, it solves the tasks set by the driver no worse than larger vehicles. It has a comfortable high seating position, a fairly spacious interior and a spacious trunk, as well as a long wheelbase. Petrol engine 1.4 or 1.6 liters.
The updated line of this minivan has a very interesting exterior. Large wheel arches and expressive design transform it into a campervan executive class. The roof is panoramic, but at the same time it has roof rails, which makes it possible to transport a wide variety of cargo.
Volkswagen's electronic equipment will also benefit the driver pleasant surprise: parking sensors that signal unexpected obstacles on the road, as well as a LightAssist device that independently turns on the light if it detects an approaching vehicle on oncoming lane. Despite the fact that this camper was in eighth place, it is quite reliable and safe, and therefore will always be excellent choice For big family.
In seventh place is the handsome Picasso. Its unusual futuristic design amazes with its originality. It is safe to say that the Citroen company has made a real revolution in the modern automotive industry.
This minivan has a number of functional advantages: its control panel is decorated with a seven-inch touchscreen and a great media system. It should be noted that this car has been updated, as a result of which it surpasses the first version in all respects.
It ranks sixth in our ranking. The S-Max first rolled off the assembly line in 2006. A distinctive feature of the visual design is the kinetic design, expressed in the apparent speed of the car. As the manufacturers themselves say, this body shape makes the car move rapidly even if it stands still.
Plus, such contours significantly increase the degree of aerodynamics of the minivan. Long wheelbase and big body give the car good stability and make it safer. Ford equipped fog lights, ABS, stability control and many other devices, including a navigation system, cruise control and camera.
The seven seats of the Honda Freed indicate the spaciousness of the minivan, which, paradoxically, is quite compact car. The seating position is relatively low, but it is what gives the car good stability and makes the interior spacious. Great campervan for a large family.
After the latest update, this van has acquired a new design, quite bold and original, ahead of the times. Quality and reliability are the main characteristics of a minivan. Has a high level of functionality: ionizer, intelligent system access, audio system, climate control for three seasons.
Externally, the car resembles a sports car, making it visually appear smaller. The excellent finishing of the exterior and interior will delight any owner with comfort and quality. Fourth place in our rating will not at all prevent this minivan from becoming a favorite for your family.
In the second generation, this minivan received updated design, high-quality salon and improved ride quality. Its suspension, similar to those placed on Cars, significantly reduced the load capacity, but at the same time the interior became much more spacious. Climate control, electrical accessories and other functional devices make the comfort of this car quite attractive. Diesel engine, 90 hp. – productive and environmentally friendly.
The manufacturer of the “Caravan” claims the sportiness of its brainchild. The original design and seventeen-inch wheels suggest just such an idea. The minivan has a very good engine at 283 hp and a volume of 3.6 liters. It has electric windows and a rigid suspension. Functional advantages: climate control, touch screens in the cabin, voice media system, parking sensors.
It is not surprising that the first place was taken by the car of this particular company. But, nevertheless, it is worth noting that this car is completely unusual both from the manufacturer and among minivans. The body of this car is a fairly successful hybrid of a crossover, station wagon and van, but the comfort can be easily compared to luxury sedans.
Unfortunately, not all models may be on sale in our country, but the option with a gasoline engine of 388 hp. quite accessible. All models have automatic transmission, and more expensive versions have climate control, parking sensors, seat heaters and many other various options.
Conclusion on buying a family minivan
All of the listed minivans are designed primarily for transporting passengers, but transporting goods is also possible.
Samples of vans released over the past ten years leave no doubt about their reliability and comfort, and at the same time convince any driver of their purpose for long trips as part of a large family.
How to choose the right minivan - watch the video:
There are various family type cars. First of all, these include minivans and minibuses.There are many such models on the market, and choosing the best among them is quite difficult. This article discusses only a few randomly selected family cars. To bring objectivityratings of various sites, organizations and publications are taken into account, and user reviews.
Classification
First of all, it should be noted that family cars usually include those that have a minibus, station wagon, minivan body. 7 seats can anyone can have of them. The differences are in the body proportionsand interior layout.
The station wagon is the most squat among these options.Most of these cars are built on the basis of sedans and differ from them only in the rear part.Minivans, although they can be built on the basis of passenger cars,have individual bodies that are taller than station wagons. Moreover, they are different more vertical oh boarding oh . Due to this, their salons usually more spacious especially in height.Passenger minibuses usually not created on the basis passenger cars. Mainly aboutno larger or more spacious than minivans. 7-8 seats is the minimum number for such models. Therefore, they are rarely used as family cars.
It should be noted that many full-size and even some mid-size SUVs. Such cars have a station wagon body, and the configuration of their interiors corresponds to it, so these cars are also considered family cars.
To size Minivans are divided into compact, mid-size and full-size. Machines of the first type are similar in dimensions with compact urban models. Usually They have 5 seats. This is, for example, Nissan Note, Opel Meriva, Citroen C3 Picasso. Mid-size cars can be 5- or 7-seater (Mazda 5, Renault Scenic, Opel Zafira, etc.), and full-size ones have from 7-8 seats (Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Estima, Volkswagen Transporter etc.).This article discusses some of the latest types of machines.
Minivans cost the same asothercars, classified cosiness for budget, middle classand dear ones. The cheapest options on the local market are Chinese manufacturers in the absence of such models from Russian companies. The only car A similar type is Lada Largus, which is a station wagon, but has a 7-seater modification. And then it is only a local version of the Dacia Logan MCV. "GAZ Sobol" and "UAZ 2206" are minibuses and are extremely rarely purchased as family cars.
A clear boundary between middle-class minivans and expensive models difficult to determine. The first include the majority compact machines of various origins, as well as some mid- and full-size ones. The most expensive are premium minivans, especially those aimed at corporate use.
By purpose these vehiclescan be divided into family and executive. The first ones have functional, spacious, comfortable interiors. They can be very well finished and offer an extensive list of equipment, but the main parameter of the interiors of such cars is usually functionality. Most minivans belong to this type. various sizes(Opel Meriva, Mazda 5, Hyundai Grand Starex etc.).
Executive models are significantly superior in quality of finish, equipment and comfort. Such minivans are distinguished by the fact that their interiors are close in decoration and equipment to business-class cars and may even surpass some of them. In addition, they usually have more advanced technical base than family options: more powerful power units, more advanced transmission, more complex chassis. These are, for example, Toyota Alphard, V-class, etc.
Toyota Alphard
ThisO Japanese model, produced since 2002Now the third generation reigns on the market(since 2015). The manufacturer positionsAlphardas a car upper class, so it is not available to everyone as a family minivan.
It is equippedthreeengines: 2AR-FXE , 2AR-FEand 2GR-FE.The first is a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine with a power of 152 hp. s., torque 206 Nm. The second engine has the same design, but different settings, thanks to which the power and torque figuresincreased to 182 liters. With. and 235 Nm. Mostproductive3.5 l engineV6has a power of 280 hp. With. and torque 344 Nm.
4-cylinder versions are equipped with a continuously variable transmission, and cars withV6-6-speed automatic transmission.For alloptionsexcept for the simplestth, available with a choice of front or least powerfuland Iversionmaybe only all-wheel driveOuch. AvailabilitysuchThe transmission is a significant advantage for a model that is positioned as a long-distance family car.
Pfront suspension typeMcPherson,rear double wishbone.
Alpharddistinguished by its luxurious7-seaterinterior finished with high quality materials. HeIt hasmany electronic systems. In terms of design, equipment and comfort, thisminivan for familycomparable to business class sedans and luxury SUVs,therefore, it is used not only as a family one, but also as a representative one. 
WITHlocal market prices startalmostfrom 3,3 million rubles,and in Japan - from 39.5 thousand.$.
By owner estimates for site e Drom.ru, Toyota Alphard - best minivan. They awarded it 9 points. On the list rating-avto.ru he took5th place.
Honda Odyssey
This Japanese car has been produced since 1995.In 2013, the 5th generation was released. 
OdysseyequiptwoengineImAnd:LFAand K24W. Both of them are 4-cylinder. The first with a volume of 2 liters develops 145 liters. With. and 175 Nm. The second has a volume of 2.4 liters and is found in three settings. Depending on them, it has power and torque ratings of 175 hp. s., 225 Nm, 185 l. s., 235 Nm, 190 l. s., 237 Nm.
2 The l engine is equipped with an automatic transmission, and the 2.4 l version is equipped with a CVT. Least powerful versionI — front-wheel drive, and some options with a 2.4 liter engine are equipped all-wheel drive.
Front suspension typeMcPherson,rear - uncut beam (for front-wheel drive versions),either typeDe-Dion(for all-wheel drive).
Interior Odysseynot as luxurious asAlphard,but very modernand corresponds to analogues. TO Moreover, it has 8 seats. 
The cost on the Japanese market is about 31 thousand.$.
In the ranking of minivans on the siteU.S. News Honda Odysseytakes second place. Websiteedmunds.comrecommend it as the best minivan.Internet resourceautobytel.comappropriatedOdyssey5th place in the ranking of the most expensive minivans, 6th place among new ones, 4th in the list of cars with highest mileage on one tank of fuel, 9th among low-power ones.The owners also appreciatethis car(8.4 points on the websiteDrom.ru). BesidesOdysseyreceived a very high security rating from the organization EuroNCAP.
Chrysler Pacifica
This large family car began a new story this year, xotya and dabout thisthe company produced similar models. Howeversuchsome had the nameotherAmerican family cars. IN it was first used for a prototype of a luxury minivan in 1999.From 2004 to 2008gg.Pacificacalledmid-size crossover. New model is a large family car, a descendantChryslerTown & Country, which has been produced since 1982. 
Two are available for the machine power plants. Petrol 3.6 lV6develops 287 hp. With. power and355 Nm of torque. In addition to it, a hybrid version is available, including the same derated to 248 hp. With. and 312 NmV6electric motor and 16 kW battery.
Pacifica equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions are available.
Front suspension McPherson, rear multi-link.
The salon can be 7- or 8-seater. There is an extensive list of both standard and optional equipment.
Cost in the USA starts from 28.6 thousand.$.
Despite the fact that this car only recently appeared on sale, it managed to receive good grades. Yes, the siteU.S. Newsawarded it first place among minivans. Websiteautobytel name yes Pacifica6th among high-power cars, 10th among the most expensive, 3rd among the most economical.
Kia Carnival
Korean minivan, produced since 1999.Since 2014, the third generation has been on the market. In America and Britain it is called Sedona. 
There are 2 engines available for the car. DieselThe 2.2 liter 4-cylinder engine develops 202 hp. With. and 441 Nm. Moreproductive 3.3 l V6has a power of 280 hp. s., torque 343 Nm.
Both engines are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The drive can also only be front-wheel drive.
The front suspension isMcPherson,rear - multi-link.
The cabin is available in 7- and 8-seater versions. Its finishing and equipment correspondlevel of family cars likeChrysler Pacifica. 
N and the American market costSedonastarts from 26.5 thousand.$.
In the ranking U.S. Newsthe model takes 4th place. It is also recommended for purchase by the siteedmunds.com. Website autobytel.com appropriated Sedona7th place among new minivans, 8th among inexpensive ones,and 5th place in the ranking of uneconomical.
Volkswagen Multivan
This european car is an improved version of the modeltransporter,produced since 1950. Since 2015
in production6thgeneration. 
The car has a wide range of 5 engines. Gasoline versions are presented in two2 l turbocharged motors: the first develops 150 hp. With. and 280 Nm, the second - 204 hp. With. and 350 Nm. There are three diesel options.They are represented by 2 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, developing m depending on settings 102 l. s., 250 Nm, 140 l. s., 340 Nm, 180 l. s., 400 Nm.
For the simplest gasoline and second diesel engines available with a 6-speed manual transmission.The least powerful diesel engine is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission.The most powerful diesel and petrol version equipped with 7-speed robotic gearbox. All variants are front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is also available for them, except for the least powerful petrol and diesel engines.
Suspension installed at the frontMcPherson,rear - double wishbone.
7- local salon very well decorated and richly equippedin all trim levels due to the positioning of the model. Simpler versions haveTransporter. 
This explains the high initial cost of the car, which in the local market ismore than 2.5 million rubles.
In 2014 Multivanwas recognized as the best in Europe in the category " family cars”, however, this was a model of the previous generation.
Chinese models
Above we looked at family cars from manufacturers known all over the world. Chinesecars cannot compare with them in terms ofprevalence. This is explained first of all, because many Chinese minivans and other modelsavailable only on native market or supplied to developing countries. Moreover, many machines are based on modelsfamous manufacturers.
And the cars from China in general and including Chinese minivansattractive with a very favorable price-equipment ratio. At a price level budget models many of them equipped one class higher. However, such machines often have quality problems, reliability and safety. In addition, in terms of technical excellence, they are usually at the level of cars from the end of the last century. Thus, many Chinese manufacturers use licensed Japanese engines just those times.
Geely Emgrand EV8
This 2010 model features a very rich 7- or 8-seater interior. The manufacturer tried to bring it closer in finishing to mid-level global models like the Honda Odyssey discussed above. The technical base is also quite advanced for Chinese car. Emgrand EV8 is equipped with 4-cylinder engines of 2 and 2.4 liters. The first develops a power of 140 hp. s., second - 162 l. With. They are equipped with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The chassis design is traditional: McPherson at the front, uncut beam at the rear. The cost in China starts from 100 thousand yuan.
Chery Cross Eastar
More traditional budget Chinese model, produced since 2008. In terms of body shape and interior configuration, it is more like a station wagon than a minivan. 7 seats in a simply decorated interior correspond to the level of economy class cars. This model equipped with 2 l four-cylinder engine power 136 hp With. complete with a 5-speed manual transmission. Front-wheel drive. The front suspension is McPherson, and the rear, which is unusual for such a budget car, has a multi-link design.
Great Wall Cowry
Minivan 2008 with 7-seater interior. Is a shining example copying designs from leading manufacturers. In this case, Toyota Voxy was taken as the basis for both the exterior and interior. In terms of quality and technical parameters the model traditionally lags behind the original. Cowry is equipped with 4-cylinder licensed Mitsubishi engines. The 2 l version is available in two performance options: 105 l. With. and 143 l. With. 185 Nm, 2.4 l develops 163 hp. s., 200 Nm 2 l cars are equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, 2.4 l variants are equipped with a 4-speed automatic. McPherson front suspension, semi-independent rear.
Other models
Only some minivan models were discussed above. Such cars are also very popular on the world market. of this type, How Renault Espace, V-class, Mazda 5, Toyota Sienna, Opel Zafira, etc.
Place on the market
Minivans and passenger minibuses are very popular in the main markets: Europe, North America and many Asian countries.In Europe and Japan the most in demand Among these cars are compact and mid-size models. Traditionally in the North American market popular full-size family cars.In developing countries in Asia, simple, inexpensive models are most often purchased. In the local market, the minivan class is one of the least popular. Wealthy consumers use mid- and full-size cars as family carsSUVand even sedans of similar dimensions.People with modest financial capabilities they buy what they have enough for: mostly compact sedans and crossovers. Ppassenger minibusesused mainly for commercial purposes.Station wagons are also unpopular.Thus, traditional family cars throughout the world, such as minivans and station wagons, are not common in the local market, with the exception ofSUV.
Minivans are roomy cars for transporting large families or companies with a single-volume body, usually having 3 rows of seats (7 seats).
Minivans differ from station wagons in the ability to increase the interior space of the cabin due to a higher body and folding rear seats. A high-capacity station wagon is the second name for a minivan.
Minivans of all brands are designed for trips around the city and good asphalt roads, they do not have high ground clearance. In a classic minivan, all passengers feel comfortable due to the height of the body, space and spaciousness.
Quantity passenger seats in minivans from 5 to 9. 7-seater minivans are suitable for transporting large families. Cars with more than nine seats are classified as minibuses.
Depending on the size of the car, the following subtypes can be found:
- compact vans are low-capacity, economical minivans that sacrifice the comfort of rear passengers to volume;
- multivans are vehicles for transporting a larger number of passengers and cargo.
Chrysler Pacifica is quality car, which is ideal not only for large families, but also for lovers active rest and frequent travel. For this, the car has everything you need - low consumption, high level comfort and safety, as well as spaciousness.
Opel Zafira Family is a comfortable family minivan for 7 seats. It is relatively democratic and has good equipment. The only downsides are that there is only one power unit, as well as the absence of diesel engines, as well as one fixed configuration. It's not bad, but for some clients it may simply not be enough. However, this is one of the popular minivans in Europe.
Chrysler Grand The Voyager is a classic example of a large American 7-seater minivan. He has a traditional powerful engine, automatic transmission gears, luxurious interior and richest equipment, which, in addition, can be supplemented.
The SsangYong Stavic is a full-size minivan that is sold with the only available 2-liter diesel engine, 2 types of gearboxes, and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Even its basic equipment is not bad, but some decisions in the interior are not entirely clear.
The large 7-seater Ford Galaxy is spacious, and even third-row passengers won't have to complain about being cramped. This minivan also boasts well-thought-out ergonomics, an easily readable instrument panel and comfortable seats.
