Lexus LM (TAWH15W)

Lexus's first-ever minivan, the LM, has arrived and those who believed that today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire aren't luxurious enough for them should consider the fanciest equivalent if they have a massive price to pay.

2024 Lexus LM

The first-ever Lexus LM, priced at 20 million Yen plus additional costs, is no doubt the most expensive minivan in the world thanks to its ultra-luxurious features that can upset today's BMW 7-Series. Although this is basically the highest-ranked version of the Toyota Alphard it was based on, the Lexus LM is fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move.

2024 Lexus LM

Beginning with the exterior design, the LM features an Alphard-esque side view while donning an un-Lexus front face and a rear view that proudly spells LEXUS all over. This is the first time you'll see a Lexus logo on the front face that is not in the grille since the LFA supercar from a long time ago and such appeal really means authority for the LM.

2024 Lexus LM interior

2024 Lexus LM interior

Despite its minivan looks, the Lexus LM is basically a four-seater fancy living digest because the driver's side and the passenger's side are separated by the 48-inch flat-screen monitor. Beginning with the driver's side, it's packed with the LFA-inspired instrumental panel that most Lexus models don as well as the HUD, a 14-inch touchscreen sat-nav, loads of USB-C ports, climate control, and so on.

On the passenger's side, this is where the out-on-a-limo experience kicks in because, with the special device, passengers can control the ottoman seats with the built-in massager, ambient lighting, the rear entertainment system, air conditioning, and others. Mind you, the rear monitor features a picture-to-picture experience so passengers can watch some movies while video conferencing with other businesspeople when they're out of the office, stuck in traffic, or whatever comes across them. Don't forget that there's a built-in refrigerator where they can store your refreshments as well.

2024 Lexus LM

Just like its lesser Toyota Alphard and Vellfire equivalents, the Lexus LM runs on the TNGA platform, front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. The only powertrain is the same one used in the RX500 F SPORT Performance and the Toyota Crown Crossover. It combines the 2.4L T24A-FTS turbocharged engine with two electric motors and a nickel-metal battery, producing 371PS of system power output and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it has 13.5km/l of combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

Because of the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system, the LM feels different to drive compared to today's Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans with e-Four in it and it feels rather silly to put it on Sport Mode because that will make it a "king in its throne". Toilet finish. Speaking of toilet finish, the Lexus LM features a signature Rear Comfort driving mode that prioritizes comfort for rear passengers while on the move. Although it isn't textbook Rolls-Royce comfort, it soothes the rear passengers like a mermaid's tale all the way home.

Speaking of a mermaid's tale, the Lexus LM features the third-generation Lexus Intelligent Safety System+ (LSS+3.0) with a Pre-Crash Safety system, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Change Assist, Road Sign Assist, Adaptive High-Beam System, driver monitor, Proactive Driving Assist, and others. It even comes with the Lexus Teammate Advance Drive, and Advance Park as well.

The ultra-luxurious and ultra-expensive Lexus LM is the ultimate luxury minivan fit enough for the 1% to relax while on the move. Whether you're going to Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, Hann, or whatever casino-resorts these minivans serve, rest assured that the Lexus LM will blow away the lesser Toyota luxury minivans such as the Alphard, Vellfire, and the GranAce from arrival to departure. Consider yourselves VIPs.

Available Colors: Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, and Sonic Agate.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Alphard and Vellfire (H40W)

For over two decades, the Toyota Alphard served as the flagship of Toyota's minivan lineup and it has been a favorite for VIPs of the East. In its all-new form, the Alphard and its sporty equivalent, the Vellfire, are ready to tackle the new normal while doing what these minivans do best; the premium combination of style, luxury, practicality, and comfort fit for royalties.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans are now on their H40W spec and because they're all-new from scratch, they are no longer the luxury minivans the Easterlies are familiar with. These minivans have turned pure alpha and they're ready to strut the road in style and comfort, no doubt.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Alphard's front view features a mammoth T-shaped grille that can embarrass today's BMW designs and for the first time, the Alphard badging has been replaced by the Toyota logo on it, a move similar to today's Harrier and Noah. Do not worry, the Alphard emblem is now located on the side view packed with sharp-looking windows. As for the rearview, it can be somewhat reminiscent of last decade's Crown.

The Vellfire, meanwhile, features the same shape as the Alphard but with a front view that says "Honey, I grew the Roomy" and a rearview reminiscent of the Hyundai Grandeur TG, adding some dramatic flair to it, if you catch my drift.

2024 Toyota Alphard interior

2024 Toyota Vellfire interior

Both the Alphard and the Vellfire are packed with an all-new interior which is slightly longer than the previous models while maintaining the same width and wheelbase as their predecessors. They're all offered as seven-seaters with ultra-luxurious second-row seats, a prized hallmark for these minivans.

On the driver's side, it features a 12.3-inch TFT color meter with a multi-information display, color HUD, a 14-inch sat-nav, a new digital rear-view mirror, and others. The passenger side, meanwhile, features a host of luxury amenities including Toyota firsts such as the super-long overhead console, power side sunshade for rear seats, universal steps positioned at the sliding doors for easy access, one-touch seesaw switch on the sliding doors, and the world's first 5:5 split two-position space-up seats where the third-row seats can be flipped up for extra space.

2024 Toyota Alphard

2024 Toyota Vellfire

As expected, all variants have four-cylinder engines and no V6 in them. That's it and that's all. Speaking of which, in order to differentiate the Alphard and the Vellfire, the petrol variants have been specified for each minivan. 

The Alphard Z variant is powered by a 2.5L 2AR-FE engine that produces 182PS of power, and 235Nm of torque. Mated with the Super CVT-i, it has a fuel economy of up to 10.6km/l for FF variants.

The Vellfire Z Premier, meanwhile, is powered by the turbocharged 2.4L T24A-FTS engine that produces 279PS of power and 430Nm of torque. Mated to a Direct Shift-8AT, it has 10.3km/L of fuel economy for FF variants.

Both the hybrid variants of the Alphard and the Vellfire are powered by a 2.5L A25A-FXS petrol-hybrid powerplant bolted to an electric motor (two electric motors if you're on the e-Four variant), a nickel battery, and CVT. With this powertrain, fuel economy is up to 17.7km/L for FF variants while e-Four variants get up to 16.7km/L.

Running on the TNGA platform, front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes, both the all-new Alphard and the all-new Vellfire behave like luxury cars with their refined silence and comfort that can please VIPs from the hot seat. In addition, both are packed with Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate for safer driving and worry-free parking worth noticing. Don't ask your boss about these gizmos.

The Alphard starts at 5.4 million Japanese Yen while the Vellfire starts at 6.55 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs.

With the all-new Toyota Alphard and the all-new Toyota Vellfire making the rounds, high rollers of the Far East are ready to double down on these new versions because of the style, luxury, practicality, and comfort worth their trip, not to mention the tech involved. Because both minivans are powered by four-cylinder engines only with the Vellfire at the top of the pack with its turbocharged 4-pot, there's no idea how to explain these minivans to the boys and girls at Okada, Newport World Resorts, Solaire, City of Dreams, Hann, or whatever casino-resorts these minivans served.

Available colors (Alphard): Platinum White Pearl Mica, Black, and Precious Leo Blonde.

Available colors (Vellfire): Platinum White Pearl Mica, and Black.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Fiat e-Doblo (K9)

Italy's answer to the Renault Kangoo, the Fiat Doblo, gained a full model change with the arrival of the first-ever e-Doblo electric MPV.

2023 Fiat e-Doblo interior

2023 Fiat e-Doblo

For the first time in Doblo history, an electrified version was offered and that said, this would be the only powertrain offered in the passenger-oriented version of the all-new Fiat Doblo. Of course, you can have petrol or diesel variants but that's reserved for commercial use. The main focus is the passenger version of the all-new Doblo and this Italian alternative to the Renault Kangoo has turned with numerous features to cater to today's Italian families.

Beginning with the exterior design, the Doblo's front face features a grilleless design for a cleaner look compared to its predecessor and having a car with no grille is a good thing because grilles are so overrated. The side view can be easily mistaken for a Berlingo and as for the rear, looks okay so far. Overall, the exterior design is clean and subtle, just the way it is.

Step inside, the new Doblo is all business and no rocket science needed to understand how it works. On the driver's side, you have all the bare neccessities you'll need such as the 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, climate control, digital instrumental panel, HUD, and others. In terms of passenger space, it's slightly cramped compared to the previous Doblo, probably because of its electric powertrain.

Speaking of electric powertrain, the Launch Pack that costs 40 grand minus the incentives runs on a 50kWh battery pack and an electric motor. It generates 136PS of power, 260Nm of torque, 0-100kph in 11.2 seconds, 130kph top speed, and up to 282km of combined driving range in one full charge. Sounds modest, though, and when you take it for a spin, the e-Doblo behaves like a regular MPV. Safe as well thanks to its SAFETY PLUS Pack which comes with AEB, Lane Keeping, forward collision, and speed sign recognition.

With spacing the main weak point of the new e-Doblo, the clean design and so-called value for money really means business for the new model. Although it's hard to keep up against the Renault Kangoo, the new Fiat Doblo is all about getting ready for everything life throws at it.

Photo: Fiat

Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A long time ago, VW created the Sambabus and it became a cult classic favorite not just for the so-called hippie crowd but for road trippers young and old alike. Fast forward to today and the Sambabus just got an electrified remake. Welcome to the ID.BUZZ.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ

A concept turned reality, the Volkswagen ID.BUZZ is the electrified remake of the ancient Sambabus that is now catering to the Gen Z crowd in the way the Sambabus caters to the boomers. Which generation is the people on, the ID.BUZZ is fit for all generations of life.

There are two kinds of ID.BUZZ available such as the business-friendly ID.BUZZ Cargo, which is priced at 54,431 Euros plus additional costs, and the fun-for-all ID.BUZZ Pro, which starts at 64,581 Euros plus additional costs. Although they're as pricey as a luxury car, these modernized Sambabuses are ready for a new kind of samba.

2023 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ interior

While the styling draws inspiration from the concept, which is a sigh of relief for motoring observers, the interior is nothing but basic. Unlike the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ Pro can seat up to five people while the ID.BUZZ Cargo is good for two because the back is where the most important cargo goes. Apart from the minimalist interior layout, the extensive use of vegan and recycled materials showcased its guilt-free commitment as an eco-friendly electric MPV.

Powering the ID.BUZZ's electric propulsion system is a single-drive motor bolted to a 77kWh Li-ion battery located under the van. In the Pro version, it produces 204PS of power, 310Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 10.2 seconds, a 145kph of top speed, and up to 423km of driving range. The Cargo's good for 425km per full charge. As for charging times, it will take half an hour to reach from 5% to 80% charge while plugged into a 170kW outlet.

Although not a fun car to drive by yourself, the ID.BUZZ feels soothing to drive even on open roads. In the case of family trips, you can really find some sweet spot while into it unless child seats took over the second row. As for safety, the ID.BUZZ is packed with Car-2-X local warning system, front assist, lane keeping assist, and the available Travel Assist.

The Sambabus remake known as the ID.BUZZ... Although it's got fewer seats than the ancient Sambabus, the ID.BUZZ is all about capability in the midst of the new normal. As a concept turned reality, there's so much to know about this electrified Sambabus remake but it's best to leave it here.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Nissan Serena C28

The Nissan Serena is now on its sixth generation and it's ready to tackle against the newest versions of the Toyota Noah/Voxy and Honda StepWGN minivans with its revised design, interior, and fuel-efficient powertrain worth scratching their roofs. Time to have a peek at the new model.

2023 Nissan Serena

Priced at 2,768,700 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, sixth-generation, Nissan Serena can be somewhat costlier to own than the new Toyota Noah but cheaper to own than the new Honda StepWGN by comparison, meaning this is the second choice of the three new Japanese minivans launched in 2022. For a minivan that is right on the money in today's economy, there's so much to talk about it, starting with its new design.

2023 Nissan Serena

2023 Nissan Serena

2023 Nissan Serena AUTECH

While retaining the boxy design from its predecessors, the new design features a dramatic but radical front face some would call controversial, probably because of the updated expression of Nissan's V-Motion grille. In the normal versions, it looks right but on the high-end Highway Star and e-POWER Luxion versions, the front grille's enlarged to make a huge statement, even with its optional Front Dynamic Pack on. The AUTECH variant, meanwhile, is a massive dark blue showoff in both urban and rural environments. Whichever Serena you're on, the new design made a huge impression, albeit with divided results.

2023 Nissan Serena interior

2023 Nissan Serena interior

Amid the polarizing exterior, the new interior is something the new Serena C28's worth proud of; the spacing that will upset the competition in its class. Sure, the driver's view is totally minimalized while the instrumental panel's digitalized a la Nissan Note, the gear lever was replaced by a set of buttons, and the aircon features touch panels, which is worth a challenge for those wearing gloves, but in terms of passenger space, this is the most family-friendly Serena ever built.

Whether it's a six-seater or an eight-seater, the best-in-class interior and boot space are what made the Serena C28 ahead of the curve. With the two-way tailgate that can be opened either the whole door or the rear window as well as the Hands-Free Auto Slide Door carried over from the C27 predecessor, it's still the most practical Serena ever built for modern Japanese families.

2023 Nissan Serena

Asked about performance, the Nissan Serena C28 is powered by two powertrains. Starting with the 2.0L MR20DD petrol engine, it produces 150PS of power and 200Nm of torque. Mated to a CVT gearbox, it delivers a 13kmpl combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. The e-POWER variants, meanwhile, saw a size increase to its petrol engine that powers the electric motor from the C27's 1.2L to the new model's HR14DDe 1.4L engine. With the new 1.4L petrol engine powering the 120kW EM57 electric motor, it delivers up to 20.6km/L combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. Although not as fuel-efficient as the Noah, it beats the StepWGN e:HEV by a razor-thin margin. Because this is e-POWER, it has a little kick on that thing when you put your foot down.

While the suspension setup is the most enjoyable to drive for a minivan thanks to its rear multilink suspension, the Nissan Serena C28 is, by all means, the safest Serena ever built because of its ProPilot 2.0 carried from the Skyline V37. ProPilot 2.0 uses a wide array of sensors capable of hands-free driving while cruising in a single lane, although drivers still need to keep their eyes on the road. It's reminiscent of Tesla's Autopilot in various ways but you get the point. With the ProPilot 2.0 coupled with noteworthy advanced driving aids around it, it's the most technologically-advanced Serena you'll ever drive.

With its questionable looks, best-in-class interior space, the enlarged e-POWER powertrain, the most advanced safety features fitted to a minivan like this, and decent value for money, the Nissan Serena C28 truly is a Japanese minivan adapted for the new normal. As a decent rival to the newest versions of the Toyota Noah/Voxy and the Honda StepWGN, the Nissan Serena C28 is a tour de force in the minivan market with a little drama. Is this the best Japanese minivan you would like to drive?

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

BMW 2-Series Active Tourer U06

The BMW 2-Series Active Tourer is the first front-wheel-drive BMW ever made when it was first launched several years ago and of course, being the first FF BMW in history, it caused fire and fury from purists everywhere because it doesn't behave like a BMW but as a family-oriented BMW for those who despise crossovers, it fits through all walks of life. With the second generation, this all-new Active Tourer is going to have some serious explaining to do.

2022 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

Starting at 36,000 Euros plus additional costs, the second-generation BMW Active Tourer picks up where its predecessor left off and that means, irritating more purists than the last one with new and extreme ways to make scandals on the public. 

First and foremost is the design; and because the new Active Tourer behaves in the new normal BMW design approach, its massive vertical-shaped kidney grille is another proof of why speedo boys are heavily irritated with BMW's design trends of today. To be brutally honest, the front face is a stark reminder of why BMW's terrifying looks are here to stay, like it or not. As the world complains about the new model's front face, it is still similarly sized compared to the previous model. It's still an MPV made for those who despise SUVs.

2022 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer interior

While the exterior design is playing dirty like today's BMWs, the interior is part functional, part comfortable, part spacious, and part annoying. Right and wrong balanced out. The functional topic is all about the range of usable gadgets you can play around with while the comfortable topic focuses on its improved creature comforts fit for a five-seater MPV, the spacious topic focuses on the added space courtesy of its new platform and with the rear seats folded down, there's more room for important stuff, and the annoying part is...there are some like for instance, voice control.

2022 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

The all-new Active Tourer is offered with a choice of petrol and engines at launch with the additional PHEV model coming this summer. They're all mated to a 7-speed Steptronic double-clutch gearbox. The range-topper for ICE variants is the 223i M Sport Pack with the 2.0L petrol engine that produces 218PS of power and 320Nm of torque. With the xDrive set, it sprints from 0-100kph in 6.9 seconds and onwards to 238kph. Pretty quick for a luxury MPV.

Running on a new front-wheel-drive platform derived from the current 1-Series, the new Active Tourer is not meant to be driven dynamically like a BMW. In fact, it feels hypoallergenic and civilized at the same time, even when kitted out with a sporty suspension setup available. Not enjoyable as such but it's worth getting its groove for an MPV that tries to outsmart its chief rival, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

On the topic of safety, the all-new Active Tourer is armed with the most advanced safety features offered including the Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant, giving it Level 2 capability. Speedo boys don't like it but whatever.

The all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer continues to irritate purists more than its previous model not only because of its new FF platform but also its terrorizing front face that was slapped on this family-oriented luxury MPV. Either way, there's no denying that the all-new Active Tourer strives to outsmart the B-Class by a long shot. Like it or hate it, the all-new Active Tourer is all about living a life in a day for business-class families. So thank you, BMW, and you're welcome.

Photo: BMW AG

Mercedes-Benz B-Class W247

As SUVs get more and more popular in the Gen Z era, the MPVs are starting to lose its touch even though it offers the same practicality as the now ubiquitous automotive trend. The new-generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class is one of the MPVs that trying to keep up against the new motoring reality by offering practicality, performance, and technology fit for today's European families.

2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Starting at 28,143.50 Euros plus tax and delivery, the third-generation B-Class is almost as reasonably priced as today's MPVs and although more expensive than its main rival, the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer, the new B-Class is the better looking of the two because its a Mercedes-Benz and posh moms are more than welcome to drive the new B-Class more than the aging 2-Series Active Tourer.

2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class interior

Because it runs on the same stuff that you get from today's A-Class, the third-generation B-Class looks better compared to its predecessor and it's surprisingly longer as well. With such good looks, the new B-Class is starting to get shape for an MPV of this size and same goes for the interior, which accommodates five people and has loads of nifty features, including the new MBUX multimedia system that delivers user-friendly features that will make them getting to know this MPV better. Because it's now roomier compared to the previous model, you'll have plenty of reasons to get used to its decent luggage space as well as the rear legroom, which is about as good as a midsize vehicle you used to own. This then has the makings of a city car and while it works like a city car, it goes like one.

2019 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

The third-generation B-Class is offered with a choice of a 1.3L and 2.0L petrol engine, both mated to a 7G-DCT, and a choice of a 1.5L and 2.0L diesel engine, both mated to a brand new 8-speed DCT, and although their new diesel lineup is compliant with the new Euro 6d regulations in effect for 2020, diesel skeptics in Europe might have to double think about buying those variants so in the meantime, as Europeans, best to shoo away from the diesels for now and make do with the petrol ones until Mercedes plans to release a hybrid version of the B-Class anytime soon. Still, those new diesel engines are worth the shot if you got the urge to find out just how clean these so-called clean diesel engines will be.

Drive wise, the new B-Class drives better than the previous model thanks to its improved suspension setup, chassis revisions, and the DYNAMIC SELECT feature which allows drivers to change which sort of driving feel will be, be it comfortable or sporty, depending on the roads this MPV goes. As for safety, the new B-Class borrows some of the Intelligent Drive functions from the S-Class, capable of becoming one of the safest MPVs to drive, only if you're prepared to gulp yourself to its semi-autonomous driving witchcraft Mercedes injected into it. Like it or not, these added levels of safety is worth noticing.

So, would you rather drive the new B-Class than the nearly outdated BMW 2-Series Active Tourer? Judging by the looks, features, tech, and performance, it's worth noticing that despite the pricing, the new B-Class is worth driving compared to its BMW rival and that is the bottom line.

Photo: Daimler AG

Honda Jade (2019 Minor Change)

The Honda Jade MPV has been on the road for three years now and with the latest facelift, there's a lot of catching up to do with this Fit-based questionable MPV that was criticized for being less spacious with third-row seats present at the back. Anyway, what's new on this 2019 minor change Honda Jade, you may ask?

2019 Honda Jade

For the 2019 minor change, the Honda Jade now boasts a new front grille, new front lamps, and new front bumpers as well as updated rear lamps and redesigned wheels. In the RS version, now available in both turbo and hybrid variants, you can see only the RS badge on the front black side mirrors, black rear wing, darker metallic details, and some sporty 18-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels.

2019 Honda Jade interior

2019 Honda Jade interior

The interior of the Jade's almost untouched, meaning there's still the same cubby holes to store stuff, the same choice of five or six seats, where the latter has two on the back that eats away boot space, a big problem for the Jade, the same digital instrumental panel, and so on, meaning there's no slight changes around here.

2019 Honda Jade

On the driving side, the 2019MY Jade still retains the choice of a 1.5L VTEC TURBO engine mated to a CVT and a hybrid with a 1.5L petrol engine connected to an electric motor and lithium-ion battery while mated with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. Turbo variants have a JC08 Mode-calculated fuel economy of less than 18kmpl while hybrid variants get 24.2kmpl. Honest but irrelevant in today's trends where WLTC Mode is soon becoming a thing on Japanese roads. Apart from that, handling's refined with the addition of double wishbone suspension at the back while RS variants get sporty front and rear dampers. Plus, on the turbocharged RS variants, they made it more responsive with the addition of a fully open acceleration step-up shift control that allows drivers to feel direct acceleration by letting the engine reach high rpm earlier with the smoothness of its CVT. Then, there's the brake-operated step-down shift control which increases the deceleration by applying the engine brake according to the brake above a certain level, which is handy while going downhill, and lastly, the Agile Handling Assist that promises smooth running with less steering operation while driving through curves.

Promising to be the safest MPV in its class, the 2019 Jade's advanced types of Honda SENSING suite of safety tech are now standard such as CMBS, false start suppression function, pedestrian accident reduction steering, out-of-road departure suppression function, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, front car departure notice function, and road sign recognition, making it a certified "Safety Support Car S Basic+" for use on Japanese public roads.

The 2019 Honda Jade now starts at 2,398,680 Japanese Yen (around $24,000 or 1,200,000Php) for turbo variants with hybrid variants start at 2,898,720 Yen (around $29,000 or 1,540,000Php).

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Third-generation Kia Carnival (YP) - 2019 minor change

Kia's third-generation Carnival (Sedona) minivan has been on the road for about four years now and although not fit for today's neighborhood full of pointless midsize crossovers, it remains an important charm point for an ever-growing Korean families who want to take them on different places like their grandma's house, a swimming pool with their relatives, family meets, debuts, proms, and so much more. With the 2019 minor change, there's so much to like about the family minivan that keeps collecting good memories for today's families.

2019 Kia Carnival

For its 2019 minor change, the new Carnival features a slightly revised styling and added tech while retaining the performance matched for today's lifestyles. Let's take a look on the exterior first and this minor change can be easily spotted with its new front lamps, new front grille, new front bumper, and new rear lamps. On the inside, the slightest change is the layout of the gear lever and there's now the annoying automatic emergency brake that your titos will find it annoying to use rather than conventional handbrakes. Also, there's now the addition of a wireless charging station for added convenience. Also, the sat-nav's improved with UVO 3.0 and then the sliding doors can be opened at the push of a button.

2019 Kia Carnival interior

2019 Kia Carnival interior

2019 Kia Carnival interior

The 2019MY Carnival still retains the choice of a 9-seater, an 11-seater, and a 7-seater with luxurious second-row seats in the Limousine variant, which is made to rival the likes of the Toyota Alphard and the Honda Odyssey.

The choice of engines remain the same too; there's the R 2.2 E-VGT diesel engine with 202PS of power, 45kg-m of torque, and combined fuel efficiency of 11.3km/L, and then the more powerful Lambda II 3.3L GDi engine with 280PS of power, 34.3kg-m of torque, and 8.2km/L of combined fuel consumption, all mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, which is an improvement compared to the pre-facelifted model.

For 2019, Smart Cruise Control is now added to the list of safety tech alongside others such as Backward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Assit, Emergency Stop Signal, High Beam Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Surround View Monitor, among many others.

The 2019 minor change Kia Carnival now starts at just 28,800,000 Korean Won ($27,000 or 1.4018 million Php).

Available colors: Snow White Pearl, Black Berry, Aurora Black Pearl, Silky Silver, and Panthera Metal.

Photo: Kia Motors

Nissan Serena C27 e-Power

Two years ago, Nissan introduced the world with the revolutionary hybrid powertrain known as e-Power on the Note minor change and because it works like it should be, they made the Note as one of the best-selling compacts in Japan and looks like they're onto something here. With the Note e-Power's success, their revolutionary hybrid powertrain has expanded to the Serena minivan, making this people mover going the distance for more while your kids behind you are napping with their pillows on their heads.

2018 Nissan Serena e-Power

So, if you need a refresher of how e-Power works, better listen carefully and don't snooze off, okay? e-Power features a full electric-motor drivetrain in which the wheels are completely powered by the electric motor, and its 1.2L HR12DE engine simply charges the batteries. The way how electricity is made is what differs it from an electric vehicle or conventional hybrid and with e-Power, the 1.2L HR12DE engine and the wheels are not connected similar to an electric car as the power is sourced from the petrol engine, allowing it to run without having to charge the battery from an external source. Because the batteries are 1/20th the size of the ones from the Nissan LEAF, its compact sizing made it to fit under the front seats without cramping the interior space.

As a result, the e-Power powertrain delivers 26.2km/L of fuel economy under the soon-to-be-defunct JC08 Mode standards, meaning that this is the most fuel efficient minivan in its class. A recently launched Honda StepWGN Spada Hybrid can only do 25km/L and that's it. That all sounds nice but sadly, the e-Power variant is offered exclusively in front-wheel drive only.

The Serena e-Power can be operated in different driving modes at the switch of a button. In normal mode, the 1.2L petrol engine is only active while in EV mode, it uses some of the energy from the batteries to continue the journey for more, and in S mode, both the engine and the electric motor are all out, making it more responsive and more dynamic. Of course, there's also other stuff in the Drive mode such as Manners Mode for some silent running while driving on the subdivision and then Charge Mode that lets the drivetrain charges the batteries.

Of course, to help differentiate the Serena e-Power to other Serena variants, they have been given some blue accents to the front grille but still, it works just like a normal Serena. You still have some of the goodies such as the the same two-way tailgate that can be opened either the whole door or the rear window, the same ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving tech, and the same Hands Free Auto Slide Door. This is a family mover that while it was not meant for enjoyable driving purposes, it works for family trips like going to grandma's house and then back home without stopping for fuel, I hope.

2018 Nissan Serena e-Power AUTECH

The Serena e-Power starts at 2,968,920 Yen (around $30,000/1,500,000 Php) and by pricing standards, that sits between the StepWGN Spada Hybrid and the hybrid variants of the Toyota Noah/Voxy vans. If the normal Serena e-Power is too bland, consider the AUTECH variant featuring a specially-made front face (including that fancy looking grille), LED fog lamps, side slip protector, special rear bumper, special rims, and suede interior, not to mention the special Shining Blue exterior paint. It costs 3,821,040 Yen (around $39,000/1,950,000 Php). Almost a million yen more than the normal one.

So, there we are. When you wake up in early morning, trying to wake the kids up, pack some stuff, and heading off to granny's house for a weekend drive, consider the new Serena e-Power as your best bet.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Serena C27 AUTECH

Nissan made AUTECH as their new premium sub-brand that blends sportiness and premium quality on everyday Nissan vehicles and the first outing for the AUTECH brand is none other than Nissan's best-seller minivan, the Serena C27.

2018 Nissan Serena AUTECH

Before explaining what's it all about the new Serena AUTECH, what is this AUTECH brand anyway? AUTECH was known for making specially customized Nissans under the Axis and Rider banner as well as making special edition models. With the banner of "Premium Sporty", Nissan's AUTECH sub-brand wants to be their answer to Honda's Modulo X line of specialty vehicles and the Serena C27 is just the start of the story.

Known to be the replacement of the Serena Rider specialty vehicle, which is made by AUTECH of course, the all-new Serena AUTECH features special cosmetic treatments inside and out but they didn't bother touching the specs, which means, the S-HYBRID powertrain with total energy management that takes charge to the sub-battery unit, eco motor, idling stop, the MR20DD 2.0L petrol engine, and the CVT remains the same as the normal Serena.

The Serena AUTECH features a specially-made front face (including that fancy looking grille), LED fog lamps, side slip protector, special rear bumper, special rims, and suede interior, not to mention the special Shining Blue exterior paint. For the SPORTS SPEC upgrade, the Serena AUTECH comes with MICHELIN PILOT SPORT 4 tires, specially reinforced body, specially made suspension that is somewhat between comfort and twitchy, special ECM, Electric Power Steering, and Vehicle Dynamics Control. Although it looks cool on the road, it's not as sporty as it hoped for and in the case of having three kids in the middle, it rather just spoils the taste when used as a family car but so what? It's a Serena and this is what it was made for.

The Serena AUTECH starts at 2,985,120 yen for 2WD models while 4WD models start at 3,218,400 yen.

Expect more additions to the AUTECH range when the X-TRAIL and the Note joining the AUTECH fleet very soon but don't get too excited just yet because although sporty in looks, they behave pretty much the same as your average Nissan.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Hyundai Grand Starex - 2018 minor change

The Hyundai Grand Starex has been around on the roads for ten years now and despite the rise of SUVs, this van still endures the test of time, although it's starting to feel outdated for a minivan that is popular not just in South Korea but in Third World countries even in the Philippines where it can be seen as decent alternative to expensive minivans like the Toyota Alphard. In response, the ten-year-old minivan has been reshaped with a fresh new look that will keep South Korea's enduring minivan freshen up for more.

2018 Hyundai Grand Starex

2018 Hyundai Grand Starex

The biggest change on this decade-old van is the face and by the looks of it, it looks more like a miniature version of its big brother, the Transit-sized Solati, judging from its headlamps and the new grille design that is beyond basic and apart from the front, the rear lamps have been refreshed. Apart from cosmetic changes, the Grand Starex is now available with the luxuriously new Urban variant and what separates the Urban to the normal Grand Starex is this...the interior.

2018 Hyundai Grand Starex interior

2018 Hyundai Grand Starex interior

2018 Hyundai Grand Starex interior

In the normal Grand Starex, you still have the plain-looking dashboard and a choice of 11 and 12 seats (with the swiveling part on it, thank goodness for that), but on the 9-seater Urban variant, not only you are welcomed with the brown interior color and wooden trim but also the new dashboard and the new steering wheel. It kind of now reminiscent of the Mercedes V-Class and while this van's posh enough to take the whole gang for an outing of a lifetime, the fourth-row seats can be folded to make room for stuff in the back, which sounds odd because the fourth-row seats kind of chewing away the boot space to almost nothing.

Even for men starting their own school service or use it as a taxi to send mallgoers home, they may find that the 11 or 12 seater layout a liability because of some parts that are too squishy even for a Balikbayan box-sized individual to get in. That sounds too shoddy to be used for that purpose but never mind. While the interior's not good to be used for school service or taxi purposes, its use as a family getaway vehicle is still the hallmark of the Grand Starex assurance.

The 2.5L CRDi engine is now Euro 6 compliant and can be mated with either a 5-speed MT or a 6-speed AT. In the top-spec version, it produces 175PS of power and 46kg-m of torque while promising a combined fuel economy of 9.4km/L. Opt one with a four-wheel drive layout and the Grand Starex will be capable of going any road conditions even on the wet condition, which sounds nice if you're brave enough to drive through the straights on a heavy rainfall.

As for safety, the new Grand Starex features a rear park assist, a quick-release alarm system, slope prevention device, and tire pressure monitoring system.

The base Grand Starex starts at 23,650,000 Won while the Urban starts at 27,000,000 Won, which doesn't sound like much but it is cheap for a minivan that is ten years old. It maybe old but with some slight changes around here, the Grand Starex continues to survive in a brave new world dominated by SUVs and because this is a common sight on South Korean roads, this van has been used for many purposes whereas Third World countries like the Philippines were strictly limited to family getaway purposes. Still, there's no argue that with such continuity, looks like the Grand Starex will hang in there for another lifetime or so until Hyundai calls it quits.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Toyota Alphard and Vellfire (H30W) - 2018 minor change

The current-generation Toyota Alphard and Vellfire luxury minivans have been on the road for two years now and like today's Toyota Harrier SUV, these minivans, commonly smuggled in Southeast Asian countries, are glad to be available in official Toyota dealerships, although there are still those prefer to smuggle one because it has bits and bobs their local Toyota dealers don't. No matter the status, these minivans have been the talk of the town because of their unparalleled luxuriousness no other minivan has to offer. At last, there are new versions that will change the course of these current-generation models.

2018 Toyota Alphard

2018 Toyota Vellfire

There's no need to explain everything about these two because every minivan fanatics, especially smugglers from Southeast Asia, are familiar with the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire minivans because different looks aside, they boast the same luxuriousness, the same performance, and the same expensive price tag and with the 2018 minor change, there's something to look out for these updated models starting with the exterior design where everything's gone from "get out of my way" to "GET OUT OF MY WAY" with all caps on because the new face really is shouty indeed and even shoutier in aero variants. Now that's some strong image implemented on these new models.

2018 Toyota Alphard interior

2018 Toyota Vellfire interior

Inside, there have been some substantial changes happening as hinted by the revised steering wheel, the new instrumental panel, new wood panels, and the new Executive Lounge variant featuring a black and white interior, Nappa leather, and specially trimmed second rear seats. Changes aside, they're still as luxurious as they were two years ago because they come with a wide array of luxurious conveniences such as the rear entertainment system, LED lighting, reading light, a choice of seven or eight seats, and much more. Everything you enjoy about the Alphard and Vellfire is all here and you can toy around with these luxury features as much as you like.

2018 Toyota Alphard

2018 Toyota Vellfire

For base variants, it's powered by the 2.5L 2AR-FE engine which produces 182PS of power and 235Nm of torque. Couple that with the Super CVT-i (with 7-speed manual mode) and an idling stop feature and you can expect up to 12.8km/L of fuel economy as calculated by JC08 Mode standards. For hybrid variants, meanwhile, it's powered by a 2AR-FXE 2.5L Atkinson-cycle engine connected with two electric motors, generating a total output of a modest 197PS of power output and an improved fuel economy of up to 19.4km/L, depending on the variant.

Now, this is getting interesting because the 3.5L V6 on these variants are brand new because the Alphard and the Vellfire use the all-new 2GR-FKS 3.5L V6 petrol engine with VVT-iW (Variable Valve. Timing-intelligent Wide), DIS (Direct Ignition System), ACIS (Acoustic Control Induction System) and ETCS-i (Electronic Throttle Control System-intelligent). This engine produces 301PS and that produces more power than the Chrysler Pacifica, hence making this the most powerful minivan, pause, in the world. Mated with an 8-speed AT, the fuel consumption is now up to 10.8km/L by JC08 mode standards. Such improvement.

The 2018MY Alphard and Vellfire are the first to implement the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assists featuring an improved Pre-Collision System with the ability to detect pedestrians both day and nighttime as well as cyclists during the day, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, and Road Sign Assist. Along with a wide variety of safety features available, these updated minivans set the standards to become the safest luxury MPVs on the market and you can't argue with the results.

Both of these models are now available to order starting at 3,354,480 Japanese Yen and arriving in dealerships this January, with the Alphard being on the Toyopet dealerships and the Vellfire on the Netz dealerships. So, with the shouty exterior, more luxurious interior, new V6 engine, and added safety, there are plenty of reasons why some of you are dying to get your sweaty hands on these updated minivans. In fact, most of you wanted to smuggle one for keeps. Go ahead. Get greedy because these minivans are causing a stir across Asia and like today's Harrier, you have a choice; wait for your local Toyota distributor to sell it officially and legally or smuggle one to get ahead of the pack while drawing the heat from the customs.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation