TOP 15 best minibuses for family and travel. Rating for 2022

Each car has its own purpose. Premium sedans perform executive functions well. Sports cars give you the opportunity to rush along highways like a breeze and get a dose of adrenaline. SUVs allow you to get to your favorite hunting and fishing spots. But for lovers of long trips or heads of large families, minibuses are more suitable than the car options listed above. It is these modifications of vehicles that can be purchased for affordable money that will be discussed in our rating.

Peugeot Traveler I Long

One of the best minibuses for families, which is liked by Russian buyers. It guarantees the maximum level of comfort and a smooth ride on different types of roads. Capacity – 16 people plus driver.

The minibus model is comfortable and roomy, the price is average for its class in the market. The motor is high-tech, durable, and suitable for solving problems of varying complexity. There is an autonomous interior heater and air conditioning. The body metal is very durable and has anti-corrosion protection.

By the way, there are very few used buses of this model on the market. This suggests that the minibus is in demand, reliable, and practically trouble-free.

Numerous test drives show the excellent performance of the Peugeot Traveler I Long minibus. It has no disadvantages - including those that analogues in the category under consideration have. So there is no reason to expect a drop in demand. Price from 2,400,000 rubles.

Top 20 best minibuses: new and used models

There are many minibuses on the market with 8 – 9 seats and even more. But since not everyone has the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license that allows them to drive a bus, and most ordinary motorists have category B licenses, we will focus on models that have no more than eight seats, including the driver.

So, the rating included:

1. Citroen Space Tourer.
2. Peugeot Traveller.
3. Opel Zafira Life.
4. Toyota Alphard.
5. Toyota ProAce.
6. Honda Odyssey.
7. Honda Stepwgn.
8. Nissan Elgrand.
9. Hyundai
10. Hyundai Grand Starex.
11. KIA Carnival.
12. Mercedes-Benz V-class.
13. Volkswagen Caravelle.
14. Volkswagen Multivan.
15. Volkswagen California.
16. Volkswagen Transformer Kasten DoKa.
17. Chrysler Voyager.
18. Chrysler Pacifica.
19. Mitsubishi Delica
20. Chevrolet Express.

All of these cars can be purchased new or on the secondary market. This review will help you understand which option to choose.

Citroen Space Tourer

Built on the same unit platform as the Jumpy cargo modification, this minibus, designed by French engineers, will appeal to those who value low fuel consumption. The car is equipped with diesel engines, the most popular of which is a two-liter power unit with a capacity of 150 hp. With. The appetite of a vehicle with a gross weight of 3100 kg is truly modest. Even in the city it does not exceed 8 liters. The engine, developed by specialists from the French concern PSA, is reliable, but due to the installation of piezo injectors, it is demanding on fuel quality. There are configuration options with manual and automatic transmissions, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The ride of the Citroen Space Tourer is smooth, and the level of comfort is high enough to not feel cramped when the cabin is completely filled.

The system for transforming the interior space implies the possibility of not folding, but removing the second and third row seats. As a result, the car turns from a passenger minibus into a small truck, capable of transporting almost 4 thousand liters of luggage in one go.

True, the question remains open of where to put the dismantled seats if the car owner does not have a garage or at least a shed.

In Europe, the model, produced since 2016, is popular. No wonder the company is in no hurry to change it to a new modification. But here in Russia, where French cars are viewed with a degree of skepticism, there is no rush demand for a minibus. And in vain. This is a good family car for long trips. Please note that the model is available in two versions – eight-seater and nine-seater.

Peugeot Traveler

The closest relative of the Citroen Space Tourer, with which it shares the same unit base, differs from its brother only in the logo and some design elements. The same body, the same choice of power units and almost complete interchangeability of parts. Decide for yourself which option you prefer.

Opel Zafira Life

This is the third clone of the Citroen Space Tourer, manufactured at the enterprises of the German company, which recently came under the control of the PSA concern. As with the Peugeot Traveller, the differences are only external. With a two-liter engine, the minibus accelerates to 183 km/h and accelerates to hundreds in 12.3 seconds. For cars of this class, this is quite good. A good option in terms of price/quality ratio.

Question to the expert

Why are there no minibuses with a capacity of more than 9 people in the rating?

The fact is that compact minivans are better suited for families and travel. They cost less, are more economical and practical. To drive such cars (capacity 8 people, not counting the driver and weight no more than 3.5 tons), a category “B” driver’s license is sufficient. Minibuses with a capacity of 9 to 15 people are more suitable for business and work. If you need such a model, check out the rating of commercial vehicles.

Toyota Alphard

Owners of this car have access to the most modern technologies, a high level of comfort and signature Toyota quality. Many perceive the popular model as a kind of office on wheels. Yes, indeed, there is more than enough free space in the cabin, and the level of interior trim is more suitable for a business class sedan. However, the Alphard is suitable for large families and long-distance travel.

In its homeland, the minibus is also available in a hybrid version. But Russian official dealers currently only offer configurations with a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine with a capacity of 300 hp. With. Those who are ready to satisfy the appetites of such a power unit will be able to enjoy the good dynamic characteristics of the car, accelerating to hundreds in less than 8.5 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth but very confident acceleration, comparable to the capabilities of business class sedans.

Question to the expert

Name the TOP 10 best Japanese minibuses.

The Japanese auto industry has a rich selection of minibuses for both family and business. Models from . There are several representatives of the Honda and Nissan concerns. It is difficult to select the best, but according to customer reviews, places can be distributed as follows: 1). Toyota Alphard 2). Toyota ProAce 3). Toyota Noah 4). Toyota Voxy 5). Honda Odyssey 6). Honda Stepwgn 7). Honda Feed 8). Nissan Elgrand 9). Nissan Serena 10. Mitsubishi Delica

Toyota ProAce

Don't be fooled by the signature emblem located in the center of the radiator trim. In fact, the Toyota ProAce is nothing more than another close relative of the Citroen Space Tourer. French developers managed to create a truly successful car. Therefore, it is not so important what brand of minibus you buy. The same choice of power units, the same transmission design... One thing is surprising: buying a Japanese model, offered in comparable configuration options, will cost more than any of the European versions.

Honda Odyssey

Many motorists consider this model the best Japanese minivan. Close in characteristics to the Toyota Alphard, this reliable car surpasses its competitor in dynamics, accelerating to 100 km/h a second faster, consumes less fuel and costs less. Among other advantages:

• Well-balanced 3471 cc V6 petrol engine. cm and a power of 384 hp. With.
• Nine-speed automatic transmission, reliable and with a long service life.
• Roomy, well-finished interior with thoughtful ergonomics.
• The trunk volume is 929 liters.

The disadvantage of the minibus is the small (145 mm) ground clearance. But if you don’t leave paved roads, there won’t be any problems.

It's a shame that Odyssey cannot be found in dealerships located in the Russian Federation. You can buy a car to order or on the secondary market.

Honda Stepwgn

In its homeland, this practical and cheap to maintain minivan has gained well-deserved popularity. Unfortunately, the model is not officially supplied to Russia. Moreover, it is produced only with right-hand drive. If this doesn't bother you, you can buy a custom or used car. In the latter case, you can, by paying 1.5 - 2 million rubles, become the owner of a Honda Stepwgn, equipped with:

• One and a half liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 150 hp. With.
• Stepless variator.
• Transmission with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The Japanese minibus with a capacity of 7-8 seats accelerates to hundreds in 13.3 seconds and consumes 10 liters of AI-95 gasoline per 100 km when driving in the urban cycle. It is reliable and practical.

Russian car enthusiasts living in the Far East are eagerly purchasing small minivans. On the secondary market the car is inexpensive.

Nissan Elgrand

The Nissan company did not stand aside and developed its own version of a family minibus. The model is equipped with gasoline engines:

• R4, 2.5 liters, 169 l. With.
• V6, 3.5 liters, 280 l. With.

Both power units are paired with a continuously variable transmission. Depending on the version, the car has front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Having received many favorable reviews, Nissan Elgrand was included in the ranking of the best minibuses. However, the car is only available with right-hand drive. For Russia this is a significant problem.

Hyundai Grand Starex/ H-1

The best minibus for traveling – convenient, comfortable, roomy. The car is recognized as the best in Australia. The seats in the cabin are comfortable, ergonomic, and customizable. Since going on sale, the model has undergone several significant modifications.

The buyer can choose from a gas or diesel engine. Gearbox – either manual or automatic. The drive can be all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The bus is very comfortable to use; there is a lot of space for luggage, compartments, and pockets in the cabin. This is an excellent choice for traveling with a large family.

A modern climate control system has been integrated, which will create optimal conditions for a comfortable ride. The doors can be closed either standardly or remotely using a remote control with a key. The airflow knobs rotate, so rear seat passengers can adjust the ventilation to their liking. The level of safety is excellent, as proven by numerous crash tests of varying complexity. The brakes are large and durable, available on the front and rear wheelset. Braking is of high quality, even when fully loaded.

This is one of the best minibuses for a large family with a spacious trunk and spacious interior. Handling is excellent, fuel consumption is moderate, turning radius is small. There are no downsides as such, but some users complain about the inability to transform the seats of the rear and middle rows into one sofa. The suspension is a bit harsh. Price from 2,499,000 rubles.

Kia Carnival

A minivan with typical crossover elements. It has a dynamic design and advanced technical equipment. The dimensions are increased in comparison with the older version. The design is serious and strict. The headlights are narrow and the radiator grille is large. The wheel arches are widened. The car is planned to be equipped with sliding doors.

The interior design is modern and simple. Among the striking touches are the deferred upholstery and seats. There is a multimedia system, the screen is huge.

If you are looking for the answer to the question of which minibus is best suited for comfortable family trips, be sure to pay attention to this model.

The trunk can hardly be called huge, but its volume is enough for a family trip. It will also be possible to fold the rear rows of seats, and the luggage compartment space will further expand. This will allow for the transportation of large items.

The power unit can be gasoline or diesel. The diesel engine has a volume of 2.2 liters and produces excellent power; the gasoline engine is even more productive. It's only front-wheel drive, but it's hard to classify this as a disadvantage. The price is a little higher than average. Price from 2,599,000 rubles.

Powerful "Korean"

Hyundai H-1
Hyundai H-1

The most democratic representative of the class is a minivan of Korean origin - Hyundai H-1. It costs from 2,139,000 to 2,449,000 rubles. The level of equipment is quite sufficient, but, unlike other representatives of the class, it cannot be equipped, for example, with a touch screen multimedia system, additional sound insulation of the windshield, keyless entry, a blind spot monitoring system, xenon and a number of other things. There is no longer version either. But the car can boast of a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine with a power of 170 hp. — the most powerful engine for the money in the class.

Volkswagen Multivan

Volkswagen is a well-known concern; it produces truly high-quality, modern cars. They are the personification of modernity and have excellent performance parameters. The engines in the basic version are economical and have high service life. The interior is comfortable, equipped with dual-zone climate control, bucket seats, each equipped with a seat belt and lumbar support.

A minibus is also suitable for work. It is good for its versatility and wide range of available features.

If you are looking for transport that would help organize travel, trips out of town, just family trips, even a transfer, and be a source of income, this is an excellent solution. It is reliable, durable, and will last significantly longer than most competitors.

The only significant disadvantage of the model is the cost on the primary market is above average. You can save money by buying a used workhorse. Cost from 3,386,000 rubles.

Toyota Sienna

Toyota Sienna is a legendary minivan. It first entered the market in 1997. Now the restyling of the 3rd generation, presented at the automobile exhibition in New York in 1917, will be relevant.

The design of the minibus is stylish, modern, dynamic, and its performance parameters are excellent as always. The headlights are beautiful and elongated. Lensed optics, there are LED sections for daytime running lights. The radiator grille is elongated, small in size, and has a pair of horizontal trims and a logo attached to it.

The seats are installed in three rows. There is not much data about the new product yet; its dimensions can be judged by the parameters of the pre-restyling version.

The suspension perfectly holds the road of any quality and can storm small curbs. They hold the road perfectly and are even able to climb small curbs while parking.

The engine is old, it works with an 8-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive systems. Thanks to this set of units, the minivan is also suitable for everyday use and driving on bad roads. Engine – petrol large six 3.5 liters. Phase rotators are installed on the intake and exhaust valves. The technical content of the version is rich, it is classified as advanced, and the security is excellent. There are no downsides, but you have to pay for technology and comfort. Price from 4,550,000 rubles.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

The best minibus for a family for affordable money, but it cannot be called cheap. The model has excellent driving characteristics, a high level of endurance, maximum dynamics and comfort. The car is ideal for its class, but you will only be able to save money on its purchase if you go with the used version.

Engines may be different, much depends on the specific delivery batch. Diesel fuel.

What the buyer should take into account is that they will have to invest heavily in repairs; they are not cheap for the model in question.

But it’s better not to save money, but to contact official dealers and receive a guarantee of high quality work. Buy original spare parts.

The car is roomy, technologically advanced, ergonomic, and is suitable for family trips out of town, travel, and work. There are no shortcomings in technical parameters. The price for a 2022 car starts at 4,000,000 rubles.

Citroen Jumpy/Spacetourer

Which minibus is best to buy for comfortable trips with a large group on a limited budget – Citroen Jumpy. It has a progressive filling, an excellent level of safety, is functional, spacious and provides a smooth ride.

There is a support system for driving on slopes, warnings in case of crossing markings, warnings about a drop in tire pressure and other useful options.

There are several body variations. The luggage compartment has an average volume, but if you transform the seats in the cabin, there will be more space for hand luggage. The engine is powerful and is not afraid of either increased loads or unfavorable road conditions.

The disadvantage of the model, according to the comments of buyers and experts, is satisfactory sound insulation, there are questions here.

But given the good driving performance, high level of spaciousness, and low price, the option still turns out to be one of the best in our rating. Price from 700,000 rubles.

Volkswagen Transporter (T4)

The most popular minibus in the world, it was produced from the beginning of 1990 to 2003, after which it was replaced by a new generation of Transporter T5 vehicles.

The T4 Series car had class-leading styling and interior design. Millions of buyers around the world immediately appreciated the quality, practicality and usefulness of such a car. When the minibus first came out and appeared on the world market, one could only dream of many of its technical solutions that were included in a car of this class. For example, just look at its legendary side sliding door (!).

Ford Tourneo Connect

A commercial vehicle, not the newest, but no less popular model. Several body styles are available. This is a good choice for anyone looking for an inexpensive minibus with 18 seats (plus driver's seat).

The equipment is standard and includes anti-lock systems, emergency braking assistance, a ventilation emergency hatch, and a folding table on the back of the passenger seats. Thermal and noise insulation of the body, judging by the reviews, is decent.

Rear-wheel drive, powerful motor. The price is average, if buying a new car puts a big dent in your budget, look for used workhorses - there are many offers on the market.

The main advantages are a powerful, long-lasting engine, rich technical features, and excellent visibility.

The windshield is high and can freeze at the top in winter. This disadvantage is highlighted by the owners. Engine 2.5 liter petrol with 172 hp.

Renault Avantime

This is the only minivan in the world with a coupe body. Despite the fact that it will simply not be possible to purchase this new car due to its discontinuation, nevertheless, on the used car market, although rarely, it is still found, and sometimes there are even offers for the sale of this unusual minivan car. This car model gained the greatest popularity among collectors of rare cars, and all for the sole reason of their small serial production. A total of 8,557 thousand vehicles were produced during the entire production period, after which it decided to curtail the mass production of these minivans due to its low demand.

Citroen SpaceTourer

A relatively new minivan produced by a famous automobile concern. The appearance is typically French, the style and design are impeccable. At the same time, the minibus does not look bulky - rather, it looks like a vigorous, lean athlete. The external design is interesting; many drivers choose the bus precisely because of it. Recognizable elements are neat headlights, a huge luggage compartment lid, clearly defined proportions, strict relief, stampings on the sides.

Although the Japanese had a hand in creating the minivan, its appearance was typically French. The impeccable style and design that distinguishes Citroen passenger cars is also evident in this van. The Citroen Space Tourer does not look bulky; it resembles a lean athlete who has gained a couple of kilos during the off-season.

The salon is comfortable and stylish. The instrument panel is located on the on-board computer screen. On the central panel you can see a 7-inch multimedia display. The interior is modern, stylish, and the interior materials are of good quality. The minibus is designed for 8 seats, that is, its capacity is not maximum. But the trunk is truly royal.

The engine is powerful, the equipment depends on the version. The basic one is one of the simplest, it only has cruise control, airbags, and heated seats. If you want more, order the premium option (but it costs more).

The main disadvantage is that you cannot choose the engine.

Toyota Alphard

Bold exterior, functional beautiful interior - everything about this minibus is perfect. The contours of the car are clear, the balance of proportions is ideal, so the profile comes out balanced and dynamic. The silhouette can be called futuristic; at the top of the grille there is a recognizable emblem.

Toyota Alphard is the embodiment of modern technologies and the maximum level of comfort. The cabin is quiet, luxurious, and makes any trip a real pleasure. The number of seats is no more than 8, as in the previous version.

Currently on sale is a modification with only one type of engine, front-wheel drive, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. But this set is quite universal, suitable for everyone. The engine is powerful and efficient.

Alphard belongs to the premium segment, its price will be appropriate. The design is memorable, recognizable, stylish. The car will not get lost in city traffic. The salon has a luxurious finish - connoisseurs will love it. This is an ideal choice for personal and commercial use, but there are only 8 seats and there is no choice of engine.

Honda Stepwgn

Honda Stepwgn is a utility minibus or minivan. It was developed for the domestic market. There are few cars in Russia, but you can try to order an inexpensive minibus from abroad. The salon is spacious, designed for 5-8 people (different configurations available). The side door is sliding.

Gasoline engine, efficient. The latest modifications of the minibus have a solid, beautiful appearance and can come with additional equipment (but for an additional fee). Restyled versions are the most modern choice. If the presence of one gasoline engine does not bother you, you will like the model. There are many reviews online – we recommend you check them out.

"TOP 10" The most beautiful minibuses

In recent years, the popularity of minivans on the world market, unfortunately, has been gradually declining. The demand segment for this type of transport has shifted towards crossovers and SUVs. But, if it happens that some large family needs to go on the road with their entire family, or let’s say, it is necessary to transport a large number of things from one place to another, then all these drivers begin to immediately remember how these minivans are in their situations are necessary and irreplaceable.

Minibuses are noticeably superior in comfort and convenience to many cars, including even premium SUVs. In addition, we must not forget that many minivans are much more economical than the same crossovers and SUVs. These minibuses deserve more respect from buyers, which is what we see now.

Many motorists, for example, believe that most minibuses and minivans are significantly inferior in design to passenger cars and off-road vehicles. But don’t rush to conclusions, this is not entirely true. There are many different brands and models of minivans that can give decent competition to other classes of cars in their style and the same design.

We offer our dear readers an overview of the best 10 (dozens) of minivans and minibuses that are currently represented on the entire global automobile market.

Renault Trafic III

The 2014 version, it has been improved in comparison with the previous ones, is more dynamic and advanced. The kit includes a powerful diesel engine. There are two modifications of the minibus for sale – cargo and passenger.

In Russia, this model is not the best-selling, but it is in demand.

Drivers appreciate underbody protection, increased ground clearance, and an improved limited-slip differential.

The price is at the average level, the car will be a good choice for the money. The design is unpretentious, so the car is taken for family trips and work.

Citroën C4 Grand Picasso

This car model, according to many experts, noticeably outperforms many passenger cars in design and practicality. The car is available in both five- and seven-seat versions. For the first time, a 5-seater car was presented to the public in 2006, and a 7-seater version of the car immediately next year in 2007.

The car is based and was built on the platform of Citroen C4 and Peugeot 307 brands.

Toyota ProAce Verso

Light truck made in Japan. Active sales of minibuses have been ongoing since 2013. At the moment, two versions of vehicles are available - passenger and cargo with a van-type body. Capacity is up to 6-8 people, so if you need more, look for other options. The height and length of the roof depend on the modification. Load capacity is about 1200 kg. The minibus is equipped with a 1.6 or 2 liter turbodiesel.

You can choose the type of box - manual or automatic.

In any case, the machine is reliable, ergonomic, comfortable and versatile. This is a good minibus option for a family. The design is solid, movement will be comfortable for any type of trail.

Buick GL8

Most likely, you could not see this car in Russia, since this same “American” is produced for the Chinese market and for a number of other Asian countries. The car is based and built on the Buick Business Concept. If you think or your friends think that the Buick company simply copied this very model from the so-called Honda minivans, then you are simply mistaken. This concept car was first presented in 2009, and for its part it released simply similar Odyssey cars, only this happened in 2010.

Opel Vivaro II

A new generation of the legendary Opel Vivaro, which has a much more attractive design. The radiator grille is large, the headlights set accents and make the car recognizable. The front bumper is equipped with an elongated air intake.

At the moment, the car is available in several versions - tent, combi, cargo van, passenger version. There are options with an extended wheelbase. The cargo compartment is spacious, its volume can be increased by folding the seats in the cabin. Engine – turbocharged diesel. The minibus accelerates well and provides comfortable driving conditions. The equipment largely depends on the modification - the more expensive the car, the more functions available in it.

This minibus has no downsides.

Fiat Scudo IIН2

FIAT Scudo II is the second generation of commercial vehicles of the famous line. The car is not new, but it does not lose its relevance. The exterior and interior design are in many ways similar to the Ducato model.

At the same time, it is stylish and aerodynamic. The interior is comfortable, spacious and visually attractive. The trunk is large, the cargo capacity is increased. Capacity up to 9 passengers. The ergonomics of the controls and comfort are excellent.

A diesel engine is included as standard. The power units are paired with a 5 or 6-speed manual transmission. The car is safe, easy to drive, and guarantees maximum comfort while traveling.

There are no downsides as such, but when choosing this car you shouldn’t count on the maximum set of functions. These are the best minibuses among used ones - we recommend paying attention.

Honda Odyssey Mugen

Here, friends, is a tuning version of the legendary Honda Odyssey minivan. The main changes to the standard factory model affected its appearance. So, for example, the following car components were developed: a new aero package of a completely updated body kit, a new radiator grille, side linings on the body. The Odyssey model also features front LED headlights, a decorative rear roof spoiler and new 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels. This tuning minibus also boasts a new sports exhaust system along with new sports brakes and luxurious interior trim elements in a certain part.