Best minivans in Australia in 2023: know price, specs & features

When it comes to fitting more than five people into a car, nothing does the task better than a minivan, also known as a people carrier or MPV. These cars enable utility and functionality to join forces to redefine the way you would navigate the vast landscapes of Australia, and they do it better than even a seven-seater SUV. They are more than just mom-mobiles, they are true all-rounders for the diverse environments here – bustling cities, expansive highways, and some rugged terrains too. Sometimes, it’s not about how many people, but how comfortable and opulent the experience can be inside a car, and here too minivans reign supreme.

If you’re looking for a people carrier of such capabilities, here’s a list of the 10 best minivans you can get in Australia across different budgets catering for varied requirements:

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Data for 2019 Mercedes-Benz V-Class V220 d Medium Wheelbase Auto

Whether for the small joys of everyday life or simply for leisure, the V-Class is ready with plenty of space and potential for making variable use of the spacious interior. The interior can be made even more exclusive with the various optional interior packages and options. You can hardly get any more comfortable in the rear, as the individual seat, which can be adjusted in many ways, fulfils practically every comfort requirement. The inclination of the seat backrest and armrests can be adjusted, as can the height and incline of the luxury head restraints. The individual seat is equipped with a three-point seat belt and ISOFIX child seat anchor. The seats can also be moved by 180 degrees to take up a communicative face-to-face position with the passengers in the 1st and 2nd rear seat rows.

Key Features of Mercedes-Benz V-Class:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Crash Avoidance with Braking
• Pedestrian Avoidance with Braking
• Traction Control
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Luxurious interior
• Variety of advanced features
• Long list of standard features
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Expensive
• Not as fuel-efficient
• Ride can be harsh on rough roads
  

Kia Carnival

Data for 2022 Kia Carnival S Auto MY23

One look at the athletic shape of the Carnival and you know it will never back down. The strong Tiger nose grille and wide stance give it a commanding presence. While the geometrical contoured LED headlights create a more aggressive finish. In addition to that, One-touch Open & Close Power Doors & Tailgate will open all sliding doors and power tailgate simultaneously by pressing and holding a single button on the smart key. This beauty which is also a beast is available in four driving modes - Normal, Eco, Sport & Smart. While the Kia Carnival has a long list of safety features, there are four which stand out and make it deemed fit for this list - Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, AEB with Junction Assist, Rear Cross-traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Warning & Safe Exit Assist.

Key Features of Kia Carnival:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Collision Mitigation - Reversing with Braking
• Roll Over Stability
• Electronic Stability
• Power Boot
  

What’s good about it?

• Spacious interior
• Comfortable ride
• Long list of standard features
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Not as upscale
• Fuel economy
• Third row not as spacious
  

Hyundai STARIA

Data for 2022 Hyundai STARIA Auto 2WD MY23

Do you have a craving for futuristic designs and cars and the requirement to accommodate up to 8 people? Seems too much to ask for, doesn’t it? Don’t worry about it. Hyundai brings your star-strung hopes to reality by Staria. Just like the name, this people mover is a Star of its segment - affordable, designed to make you look like a time traveller and spacious enough to accommodate your small universe. The STARIA seamlessly turns any routine commute into an enjoyable drive with the whole family. With the STARIA your family can enjoy an effortless experience of mobility like you’ve never imagined it before. Staria comes in two variants and an optional AWD. So whichever STARia seems like your kinda star, Hyundai will possibly get it to you!

Key Features of Hyundai STARIA:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Crash Avoidance with Braking
• Pedestrian Avoidance with Braking
• Traction Control
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Spacious interior
• Stylish design
• Long list of standard features
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Not yet available in all markets
• Fuel economy
• Third row not as spacious
  

Volkswagen Caravelle

Data for 2019 Volkswagen Caravelle TDI340 T6 LWB Auto MY19

Volkswagen focuses on two things with the Caravelle - safety and Interior. They picked the strengths of this vehicle and took it to town giving the consumers an excellent choice in the People-Movers category. The Caravelle is the ultimate choice for you with all the flexibility to fulfil commercial and personal trips alike. Depending on the day, the number of people in your car will vary. All seats in the passenger compartment can be conveniently folded, repositioned and removed thanks to a few thoughtful design touches. Thus, to couples looking for a car, this can be your mini-caravan!

When you’re always on the move, you can drive with confidence thanks to the Caravelle’s multiple safety features. With innovations including Front Assist with City Emergency Brakes, Multi-Collision Brakes, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Traffic Alerts, Crosswind Assist and many more.

Key Features of Volkswagen Caravelle:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Blind Spot Sensor
• Engine Immobiliser
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Versatile
• Durable
• Reliable
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Not as upscale
• Fuel economy
• Third row, not as spacious
  

Volkswagen Multivan

Data for 2022 Volkswagen Multivan TDI340 Comfortline Premium T6.1 SWB Auto MY23

Now coming in strong another VW marvel - the van for all vans, the VW Multivan. With 8 Airbags, 5 Child Anchor Points, 7 seats and 4300 litres of space. This is designed for a convenient and smart city commute or one hell of an adventure. While the People Movers in this list have special strengths, the Multivan virtually wears almost all hats that are to be worn.

With unlimited room and flexibility from the innovative seat rail system, the only limit is your imagination. Just about everything adjusts, rotates and folds, and long objects have a second home under the 3-seater bench seat. But if you need even more space, the seats can be removed and reinstalled in a few simple steps.

Key Features of Volkswagen Multivan:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Collision Mitigation - Reversing with Braking
• Roll Over Stability
• Electronic Stability
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Upscale interior
• Variety of premium features
• Four-wheel drive available
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Expensive
• Fuel economy could be better
• Third row of seats not as spacious
  

Toyota Granvia

Data for 2021 Toyota Granvia Auto

With Toyota’s long-standing reputation for making some of the safest cars in the world, now Toyota has made an excellent vehicle for all those who prioritise safety and comfort over anything else. Toyota has provided a family car filled with Multimedia and Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) features for more such reassurance on every trip. A great feature of Granvia that stands out is the accessibility through the central entrance. Getting in and out of the Granvia is easy with every chair accessible from a central aisle.

With the choice of six or eight luxurious seats with fully adjustable backs and headrests to give you the experience you want in a family car. We’re not kidding, ALL seats Recline! That’s right, no VIP treatment to the front seats, all are the same and all are comfortable. To close off, no matter where you sit, you’ll be able to charge your devices. Plus, you’ll find a purposely designed place to store and charge a tablet in the centre console and adjustable LED reading lamps will let rear passengers keep themselves entertained day or night.

Key Features of Toyota Granvia:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-Lock Braking System
• Hill Holder Control
• Passenger Seats with Electric Lumbar
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Smooth ride
• Quiet cabin
• Variety of advanced safety features

What’s not so good about it?

• Only available in some markets
• Expensive
• Fuel economy could be better
  

Volkswagen Caddy

Data for 2023 Volkswagen Caddy TDI280 5 SWB Manual MY23

The Caddy is VW’s commercial mover. Whether you’re one of those mad geniuses running your start-up from your van or a courier service, Caddy is prepped and ready for every use-case. Caddy is undeniably the perfect business partner for ease and professionalism in your daily work. Produced in 3 different variants -  Caddy Cargo, Caddy Cargo Maxi and Caddy Cargo Crewvan. It’s a confident and capable vehicle that offers innovative driver assist features3, varied infotainment systems and an ergonomic driver’s workstation. What you aspire with your business, Caddy does it on the gow, GROW! That’s why the Caddy Cargo flaunts an improved eye-catching exterior, revolutionised cockpit and cutting-edge interface. Plus, with a driver’s seat that feels like a connected ergonomic work station you can keep in touch with colleagues and clients with ease.

Key Features of Volkswagen Caddy:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Crash Avoidance with Braking
• Pedestrian Avoidance with Braking
• Traction Control
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Practical
• Affordable
• Variety of seating configurations
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Not as spacious
• Fuel economy could be better
  

Volkswagen California

Data for 2021 Volkswagen California Beach TDI340 T6.1 SWB Auto MY22

The goal is to get to California and the race to the great outdoors! Too much of a challenge? Here’s a better one, get inside a VW California and explore the great outdoors with great comfort and ease. The ultimate camping van is packed with all the right features to take your adventure to the next level. It’s customisable from head to toe, so you’re fully equipped for any road trip.

Whether it’s flawless coastal roads, weaving mountain tracks or stunning desert highways, Australia has some of the most beautiful drives. All you have to do next is choose where to go. More than capable of handling the day-to-day drive, the California is also built for day trips that turn into overnight adventures. The spacious cabin offers enough room to comfortably sleep 4, including the loft space which is fitted with a sprung bed base and comfort mattress. So, wherever you park up, you’ll catch some quality Zzzzs. That’s the whole point of a car, isn’t it?

Key Features of Volkswagen California:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Blind Spot Sensor
• Engine Immobiliser
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Perfect for family adventures
• Pop-up roof
• Bed
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Expensive
• Fuel economy could be better
• Not as comfortable to drive
  

LDV MIFA 9

Data for 2022 LDV MIFA 9 Mode Auto MY23

People Movers meet luxury and sustainability with LDV MIFA 9. So far the interior of the car in this list has been focussed on being accessible and sporty. While MIFA 9 bridges across those requirements it also adds another dimension to the interior adding Class and Elegance. The whole luxury thing isn’t just an attempt. It is the real deal. The interiors never fail to make the journey more comfortable.

Primarily, elevate your experience further in the Luxe with heating, cooling, massage and recline functions, with a footrest and individual touchscreen controls for that perfect temperature. Secondly, with an electric tailgate and electric dual sliding doors with one-touch entry and exit, you'll never fumble to open the car while balancing luggage or shopping again (Executive & Luxe only). Additionally,  Integrated touchscreen controls provide convenient access to seat adjustment, massage and memory. The sliding armrest neatly conceals the screen when not in use (Luxe only). While there are some other features in this beauty, one which is our favourite is the built-in tray tables!

Key Features of LDV MIFA 9:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Collision Mitigation - Reversing with Braking
• Roll Over Stability
• Electronic Stability
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Large and luxurious
• Variety of advanced features
  

What’s not so good about it?

• New to the market
• Reliability unknown
• Fuel economy unknown
  

Mercedes-Benz EQV

Data for 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQV EQV300 Auto

The Benz with an EQ. The EQV has a modern design, ergonomics and high-value appeal. You can select the optional EQV Interior Design Package to give your EQV a look that is even more exclusive and sporty. Build your own EQV, and Configure the EQV to perfectly suit your own preferences. Versatile equipment from the areas of multimedia, safety, driving assistance systems and comfort offer you great freedom of design – making the EQV your very own.

The best part - With MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) you receive a multimedia system as standard which leaves virtually nothing to be desired. The modular system is operated intuitively and its functionality can be individually extended for up to 8 persons: from intelligent voice control to smartphone integration and Mercedes-Benz navigation. Operation is via either a 26 cm (10.25-inch) touchscreen, the touchpad, buttons on the steering wheel or natural voice control. Standard equipment.

Key Features of Mercedes-Benz EQV:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-Lock Braking System
• Hill Holder Control
• Passenger Seats with Electric Lumbar
• Power Boot

What’s good about it?

• Electric
• Luxurious
• Long range
  

What’s not so good about it?

• Very expensive
• Limited range
• Not as many charging stations
  

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of Australian roads and family adventures, minivans stand tall as the unsung heroes, versatile and ever-reliable. From the urban jungles to the pristine coastal stretches and the rugged Outback, these marvels of engineering adapt seamlessly to the changing landscapes of your life. For families, they embody the spirit of togetherness, offering the space and comfort needed for shared experiences and making every journey memorable. With features tailored to suit the needs of both little ones and seasoned travelers, minivans transform from spacious family cars to cozy homes on wheels, ensuring that each trip is a delightful adventure.

And for the intrepid explorers and road trip enthusiasts, minivans are the canvases of possibility, allowing you to design your escapades without constraints. Their adaptability to various terrains, abundant cargo space, and fuel efficiency make them ideal companions on epic journeys across this vast continent. Plus, their enduring value is an investment that pays off in the long run, promising not only exhilarating voyages but also prudent financial choices.

FAQs

1. What are the top minivans available in the Australian market today?

Top minivans in Australia include the Kia Carnival, Toyota Granvia, and Honda Odyssey, known for spacious interiors, safety features, and family-oriented designs.

2. What criteria were used to determine the best minivans in Australia?

Criteria for best minivans in Australia involved evaluating safety ratings, interior space, versatility, technology, fuel efficiency, and overall family-friendliness.

3. Are there any new minivan models expected to enter the Australian market soon?

While specific release dates may vary, upcoming minivans like the updated Toyota Sienna and Hyundai Staria are anticipated to enter the Australian market soon.

4. How are minivans compared to other types of vehicles, like SUVs or sedans, in terms of space and functionality?

Minivans generally offer more space and versatility compared to SUVs or sedans, making them ideal for larger families or those needing ample cargo space.

5. Can you provide a breakdown of the key features and specifications of the top minivans in Australia?

Key features of top minivans in Australia include flexible seating arrangements, advanced safety tech, touchscreen infotainment, ample cargo space, and potent engines for a smooth ride.

6. What is the average price range for minivans in Australia, and are there any budget-friendly options?

The average price range for minivans in Australia is roughly $40,000 to $70,000, with budget-friendly options like the LDV G10 catering to those seeking affordability.

7. Are there any eco-friendly or hybrid minivans available in Australia?

Hyundai Staria, Honda Odyssey and Kia Carnival are just a few of the many eco-friendly and hybrid minivans available in Australia. With so many great options on the market, you are sure to find one that is perfect for your family's needs.