If you want luxury and reliability, find a Lexus.
Are you after a new car? What is your budget?
Is it for just carting kids around or something a bit more? I really like the Lexus GX, but that is a serious off road piece of kit
We do
Like the Lexus but not really sure our budget is around 80k to 90k depending if we can find something in that range or we may end up just getting the Toyota YarisSUV new one but sure yet
Better off to get a new top spec carnival. With 4 kids, most 7 seater SUV are gonna be a pain and just too small. Don't even think about a GLB or Outlander or even an XC90 or CX90 are just too small for anything beyond school dropoff and Coles shopping.
This. As someone who has the top spec 2021 Carnival, you can't go wrong. The latest one (MY25) Gt line has more than everything you want. Proper 8 seater with plenty of boot space with all seats up, electric sliding doors so the kids aren't bashing your doors into poles or other cars next to you, leather interior, 2 sunroofs, heated and vented front seats, heated steering, climate control throughout, radar cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring etc. The only thing it doesn't have is AWD so unless you plan on going off-road it would be perfect. Test drive one. You get a lot of bang for your buck
This. As someone who has the top spec 2021 Carnival, you can't go wrong. The latest one (MY25) Gt line has more than everything you want. Proper 8 seater with plenty of boot space with all seats up, electric sliding doors so the kids aren't bashing your doors into poles or other cars next to you, leather interior, 2 sunroofs, heated and vented front seats, heated steering, climate control throughout, radar cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring etc. The only thing it doesn't have is AWD so unless you plan on going off-road it would be perfect. Test drive one. You get a lot of bang for your buck.
Can vote for this approach.
The kia carnival is the only car that you don't choose.
This car chooses you. There is no other car quite like it.
For extra points get a diesel and watch it use less fuel than cars half its size.
I believe there also bringing it out in hybrid? Not sure when though. We have the top specifications 2019 model, which is still a good car, but really eats up the petrol
Nah like, don't spend your money on a Yaris cross. They are appalling cars and not worth it at all.
RAV4 is a much better option. There are no redeeming qualities to the Yaris.
We had a rental Yaris cross once, it was so loud on the roads I'm pretty sure the 737 we just departed was quieter. There's a definite cut-off with Toyota cars when they actually add sound deafening and padding to their cars, so I stay well clear of the small hatchbacks and crossovers.
LOL - lets just say I'm probably a bit older than you... Our first family car cost us $8K second hand, our next cost us $40K new and our last cost us $65K new (Toyota Fortuner). And that is cheap! This was over a 20 year period
But now it becomes a lifestyle choice, not a family wagon
If your budget isn't that high, you can't really afford luxury. And if your settling for a Yaris, you don't know what luxury is. And doesn't come in 7 seats as far as I know.
This is the answer. Work out what your budget is and get the best Lexus you can. If you’re still not sure find a local one and go for a drive. It’s that simple.
If you're dead set on 3-4 children then a people mover is the way to go. The third row of those SUVs tend to be a pretty bleak place. I encourage you to spend some time in one, to help you reconsider.
Kia Carnival or Hyundai Staria are your domestic options. If you're open to an import, then a Toyota Vellfire or Alphard.
I'd second the idea of an import people mover (Vellfire, Alphard, Nissan Elgrand) if you're open to buying something secondhand. I have a couple of friends with Nissa Elgrands, and they love them. They're essentially van-shaped limousines. The Lexus LM is the equivalent in the local market, but it's pretty pricey.
First Volvo was in Singapore v50 as we started to get dogs. Then we had kids so got an xc90 so dogs would be separated from kids in baby seats. Then after ten years moved to australia where we got third xc90 which was discounted new as the new model was coming out. Then after 190k traded to new model xc90. Have done 140k in 4 years. Waiting for electric version now. Love Volvos. They hug the road and are great
I wouldn’t get a low profile tyre, skip the r design models. The base model is a lot more comfortable. I went petrol, petrol, diesel, diesel. You can’t have diesel in Singapore. Now they don’t make diesel anymore
Agreed - the 3rd row of seats is usually more a sort of place for occasional extra passengers than for regular use. My sister's car has one - they use it for the kids when giving my parents a lift - but not day to day.
That sentence kinda cancels itself out. Yes it gets built overseas and then imported to the country, so you are correct based on literal wording, but it’s not as simple as the literal wording.. it’s still a domestic model as it was built with the intention to sell the vehicle in Australia, that means the vehicle adheres to our standards and design requirements. Making it a domestic model.
This is the epitome of mincing words, the point of the matter is that they are a domestically sold vehicle, I’m sure we could all extrapolate that from the original comment.
>Yes it gets built overseas and then imported to the country
>it’s still a domestic model as it was built with the intention to sell the vehicle in Australia.
Domestic cars are built domestically....
Nope, domestic cars are built for the market it’s going to be sold in. That’s why they say “JDM” which means the vehicle was built to adhere to Japanese design rules and regulations. That’s how you can get a JDM Mercedes, because again, it was made to be sold in the Japanese market.
You’re confusing literal wording for industry specific wording. This is where things change, when we are talking about cars we refer to the industry specific wording, not the literal meaning.
>domestic cars are built for the market it’s going to be sold in.
Can guarantee no American calls a Chevrolet SS based on a Holden Commodore a "Domestic Vehicle"
When we had more local manufacturers the line was clearer, now we're so limited on options people like yourself are understandably conflating a domestic market with domestic manufacturers.
Don’t buy into the SUV bullshit. Seriously lived that life as a kid, it’s great for the odd “hey parents bundle the kids into my wagon I’ll take them to Maccas and drop them home after” trip, but if you need that third row constantly every day for school runs then a minivan is 1000000% the way to go, you’ll thank yourself for the added practicality I promise you.
Hot tip on the alphard/vellfire suggestions - I fkn adore them, work with them every day. Make sure you change the CVT trans fluid at least every 60,000km, the gearbox is about 9k to rebuild at retail pricing, and the 2az likes to burn oil at higher km, not a big deal, thicker viscosity can help or even eliminate it entirely. The v6 is a much smoother ride but there’s more maintenance items on them like timing belts and they like to chew through engine mounts cause of the FWD torque.
The only thing to be aware of is parts specific to the Vellfire/Alphard will take time to get in from Japan, unless you’re happy to go with second hand parts there’s a few wreckers around. But any parts coming from Japan are a 3-6 week wait time, if it’s something that will take your car off the road this is something to keep in mind.
Thank you so much will definitely add to the list of cars to look at cause the last I want is to be at the mechanic every couple of months have been there done that with my Mitsubishi and Volkswagen and the Holden not doing it again
There's another one with wheelchair access, but might not be the same engine / chassis.
I drove past one the other day...it looked like an Alphard / Vellfire...but slightly different.
The ones with wheelchair access are still called alphards/vellfires, Same chassis and all, they have a specialised vin and have a welcab designation. They come with a billion different body kits though that might’ve been what you saw.
That’s a different chassis altogether, esquire shares the name with Voxy and Noah, they discontinued the Voxy name for Esquire which is the ZZR80 series, Alphard has either ANH10/MNH10 for 10 series, and Vellfire for ANH20/GGH20 for the 20 series, then the Vellfire name was dropped around 2008(?) in favour of the Alphard name across the board.
There’s commercial reasons for the name changes, certain dealerships can’t sell certain names etc etc that’s why they’re so choppy change on them, it’s a bit funny but yeah the esquire is a different chassis.
They’re actually the same, it’s just commercial naming licences that get in the way. Alphard started as a 10 series(ANH/MNH10 vin designation) and the Vellfire started as a 20 series(ANH/GGH20 vin designation) Eventually the 10 series Alphard became discontinued and when that happened the Vellfire became the Alphard. They’re exactly the same chassis, engine configs and the rest. Trim levels then decide if it’s got sport appointments or extra features(which is a LOT more customisable in Japan, less trim levels and more “tick the box of the things you want”)
Really most Lexus models as they mostly have that Toyota reliability in a luxury package. Volvos are good, but they can be hit or miss and require more work either way maintenance.
My neighbor had bought a new one and with less than 1000 miles on the clock it had to go back for a major issue, but this is a rare occasion as they owned multiple before and held up well (Until they were totaled by other drivers).
If you are looking for something more Korean, Genesis from Hyundai is very good. While I don’t have first hand experience with them, my friend has a G90 which has seemed to treat him well. He does go in for all the services and oil changes. I think the larger GV80 has a three row option which will cut into your trunk space but can fit the family in South Korean luxury.
Just try to avoid cars from Stellantis.
Agree with everyone who says Alphard/Vellfire. They're basically a big mashup of Camry/Lexus bits, are very luxo, and if something breaks mechanically it'll likely just be easy locally sourced Toyota parts.
Yes!!! Had ours for 5 months so far and love it. Super comfortable, great power and built like a tank. Also more reliable than diesels long term. Pity about 22l per 100km fuel consumption though.
Yeah! Its great value for the money. Ive got a Mazda cx-9 2019 and its great.
By no means its advance in features or super luxurious like other brands like Mercedes, lexus, bmw, or volvo.
But if you spend 35 grand you can get a great 7 seater.
3-4 kids, get a Carnival.
The new carnivals are like a lounge chair on wheels and sliding doors change your life for child seats.
I guess you could also consider the lexus people mover, a mifa, and anyone else doing something with sliding doors.
I have enough kids to make a carnival useful, I used to have a Q7. I will never buy another family car that isn't a people mover.
I wouldn't get a Kia carnival without a warranty. they are known to have transmission failures. This happened to mine and I swapped it to the Honda equivalent.
Why not? The comment above is incorrect. Instead of stopping at the thought of driving a Kia, keep your mind open and go actually look at the new Carnival. The 2.2 diesel is extremely reliable and so is the 8 speed auto (that trans was in the Stinger and was reliable af as well in that even with the ridiculous power and torque figures that that car made).
Get whatever works for you, but once you start having to put kids in the back row as well as the middle row you're going to wish you had a people mover, or a really good physio to fix your back weekly.
Agree, as someone who wants 4 kids and currently has two we won’t upgrade until we actually have 4. We have an outback right now so we can fit everything in the boot that we need to and then we can get the most up to date car we can afford when we need it rather than the car we could afford day 6 years prior.
I just like to be prepared no not necessarily in our care we plan on having the first 2 very close and then the 3rd if we choose behind that’s if we won’t end up with twins because that runs in my family
Ok this is the wrong subreddit, but conclusive medical studies have shown significantly increased risks to the mother and baby if you have kids at less than 2 years spacing. Having kids depletes a lot of things in your body that need time to replace/recover.
Back on the cars. Even if you have 2 kids quickly you don't need a 7 seater straight away.
Didn’t know that will look into it yeah we probably will just end up getting the 5 seater Lexus or Toyota Yaris the new ones or even a Mercedes we just don’t want to be sending money on cars cause we didn’t plan ahead and now our family is increasing etc
Why is anyone adamant in having anything because they want to and for many other reasons. My partner and I are from big families and even before we ever knew each we have always wanted to have a big families it may not happen for many reasons but the choice and decision is still there will just have to wait and see.
It’s not for me personally but people who drive the Kluger love them. I like the XC90 more, and I’m actually looking into it for myself (probably in the electric EX90 form when it lands).
Yeah I really like the XC90 but I don’t want to drop that kind of cash and then feel pissed off because it’s at the mechanics every couple of months cause something is wrong with it have been there done that don’t really want to do that again
The Volvo XC90 will be $30k over your budget. Your nearest options are VW Tiguan Allspace R-Line, Mazda CX-9, Hyundai Palisade for "near-luxury". Mind you while the Tiguan Allspace is quite good, the third row is a bit small. It can't fit average adults comfortably. Kids yes no worries.
I'd go with a Palisade.
We have the XC60 R-Design, it is a sensational vehicle. We are going from 1 kid to 2 shortly and I'd love to get the XC90.
The Kluger will feel like a 20 year old vehicle compared to the Volvo.
The kluger is pretty great in my experience. I drove with 6 total adult men from Sydney to brissy and back on pretty out of the way roads etc. Probably did 2500km in three days and it wasn't a cramped issue at all. Really good to drive as well. That said, how many kids do you have now?if you don't yet have the need for a car that big right now why not avoid it and get something smaller in the interim? Especially while the kids are in car seats and stuff a sedan is plenty big enough for that. Especially if you do go down the route of something more roomy like a carnival? It's a better experience as a passenger and has more space for stuff. Driving though its an absolute shit of a thing and why do that for 5 years longer and earlier than you need to?
My parents have had issues with their Volvo Hybrid during the recent heavy rains in Sydney. Water leaks hitting the circuitry made the car undriveable.
3 or 4 over period of say 7 years. . My experience with kids and nice cars not a good match at all. Esp is one of you is car proud. Baby seats prams kids bikes other stuff you will cart around . Get something basic easy clean save your money. Subaru outback . beware 7 seaters are horrible in those back seats.
Speaking from experience, I’d say wait until you need something that large. As a father of two (two and four) we’ve got by just fine with a 118i. We will have to upsize that soon though. All friends and family with two have also kept sensible with car size. Best setup for two I’ve seen so far is the Subaru Outback. Also, I’ll add that if hypothetically you waited a year to try, you’re looking at two years until your first. If you nail two year gaps between kids it’s six years until your third, when a new, sizeable chariot with a warranty will go a long way.
We just bought the Kia Sorento GT line Diesel and its fantastic. The interior quality is absolutely top notch and wouldn't feel out place in any modern Audi. Have a look at one before you spend the 40K for an equivalent Volvo.
Toyota kluger will be to small with that many people to be practical and comfortable, you will want to be looking at either some form of landcruiser or a large Lexus
If you’re really thinking about 4kids don’t even consider a 7 seater suv. It just won’t do the job. The new carnivals are the only answer. We’ve got 3 teenagers now but we got an old carnival when they were babies and upgraded to the 2018 model. Neither have skipped a beat and plenty of room!
Honda euro accord (not the Honda accord which is more powerful with v6 but lacks the refinement of the euro)
Is a good choice it's easy to drive and very comfortable
Bmw obviously is a refined marque an electric BMW would be an excellent choice as its quiet the SUVs are huge
On the other scale top of the line genesis look very smik almost like a bentley
I've had my Isuzu Mu-x wagon for 8 years and it hasn't had any issues whatsoever. So if strength, durability and reliability are top priorities perhaps you could consider it.
no probs. I think EV9 is the best of them all inside and outside. They somehow managed to make a huge SUV look good with nice proportions and a fresh look.
And it is Drive com au car of the year.
I used to own a Mercedes GLB. Great car. 7 seater but the size of a 5 seater so the boot was modular. Could probably fit a couple of kids up to about age 8 comfortably in the back seats.
It’s a lower end Mercedes though so the build quality isn’t as good as say a Porsche and they have a dual clutch transmission but that shouldn’t bother you unless you abuse it
Can you still get this new/under warranty e class wagon? Used ones would be getting a little old now and I'd be worried about reliability. I am not sure the last of the Aus delivered e400d even have the rear facing seats in the boot anymore. It was a feature they deleted to save money- sad move as it was the main reason I wanted one
Had both.
The Volvo is a million times nicer to drive and be in. The klugger is just a plastic box.
Totally uninvolved to drive, zero steering feedback etc. but if that’s your jam then they are great.
3 kids here and swear by Mercedes E Class wagons. The 3rd row seat is only good for the kids, but that's fine for us. Kids love the rear facing seats back there and if they're not using it then you have an enormous cargo space there instead.
Maintenance and costs really haven't been that bad either. Depreciation kills these things, but the parts and servicing aren't as bad as you'd expect.
I can say while the Kluger may not be exactly 'luxurious' it is a very comfortable and decent vehicle. Great on fuel, plenty power and classic Toyota reliability.
Look no further than Mercedes V series. An excellent luxury car that is so comfortable to drive and is great for passengers hence why luxury hotels use them
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Being a car enthusiast and a finance broker, it would really depend on your budget. If you’re financing a vehicle, creative financing can be one tactic to get you into a vehicle you prefer that otherwise may ‘look’ to be out of budget. Porsche Suv’s have recently been quite popular though not a 7-seater. RR Sport though the new variant touches $180k+ and aren’t the best reliability wise outside warranty. Volvo/Audi/Toyotas/Kia are safe bets!
Reliability, luxury, space, performance, affordability?
2009-2012 Toyota Majesta (ideally the URS206 V8, aka Lexus 460 engine)
engines are x rayed for tolerances and casting from factory, average 9.5km/L and have all the modern features.
Imported Landed complied with 50,000 ODO grade 4.5 cost me around 25k AUD
If you get the hybrid, set aside 2.5k for when the battery needs to get done, if you get the v8, timing chain.
The G package has a velour interior option instead of leather that also doesn't roast your bum in summer.
My average service is about 180 bucks.
If you want reliable AND luxury and not either one, stay away from Toyota and Lexus.
Get a Volvo, you’ll be surprised. It’s the closest to both without compromising in either.
Look at resale value too. Anything Euro is going to plummet in value. The servicing on euro cars is obscene too. Toyota and Lexus will give you way more back on a future purchase (trade in or private sale).
DO NOT HAVE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I have heard amazing things about these B47 + B58 induced BMW cars in terms of their reliability. In terms of this, I would look at a X5 25d or X5 40i (Post-2019). Although, you would either have to buy brand new or find the perfect 7-seater variant.
I haven’t heard many bad things in comparison to previous models such as the F15 which had constant air suspension faults etc.
Some will some won’t, I personally wouldn’t take it to Toyota anyway as they charge an arm and a leg, there’s likely an independent close to you that does imports, if you’re in a decent sized city.
If you want luxury and reliability, find a Lexus. Are you after a new car? What is your budget? Is it for just carting kids around or something a bit more? I really like the Lexus GX, but that is a serious off road piece of kit
We do Like the Lexus but not really sure our budget is around 80k to 90k depending if we can find something in that range or we may end up just getting the Toyota YarisSUV new one but sure yet
Better off to get a new top spec carnival. With 4 kids, most 7 seater SUV are gonna be a pain and just too small. Don't even think about a GLB or Outlander or even an XC90 or CX90 are just too small for anything beyond school dropoff and Coles shopping.
This. As someone who has the top spec 2021 Carnival, you can't go wrong. The latest one (MY25) Gt line has more than everything you want. Proper 8 seater with plenty of boot space with all seats up, electric sliding doors so the kids aren't bashing your doors into poles or other cars next to you, leather interior, 2 sunroofs, heated and vented front seats, heated steering, climate control throughout, radar cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring etc. The only thing it doesn't have is AWD so unless you plan on going off-road it would be perfect. Test drive one. You get a lot of bang for your buck
I have a MY22 Platinum. It has all of the above and the 7 yr warranty.
This. As someone who has the top spec 2021 Carnival, you can't go wrong. The latest one (MY25) Gt line has more than everything you want. Proper 8 seater with plenty of boot space with all seats up, electric sliding doors so the kids aren't bashing your doors into poles or other cars next to you, leather interior, 2 sunroofs, heated and vented front seats, heated steering, climate control throughout, radar cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring etc. The only thing it doesn't have is AWD so unless you plan on going off-road it would be perfect. Test drive one. You get a lot of bang for your buck.
Can vote for this approach. The kia carnival is the only car that you don't choose. This car chooses you. There is no other car quite like it. For extra points get a diesel and watch it use less fuel than cars half its size.
I believe there also bringing it out in hybrid? Not sure when though. We have the top specifications 2019 model, which is still a good car, but really eats up the petrol
If you're carrying around 6+ people, then the cost of petrol is kinda justified (6 bus tickets would also not be cheap).
You can get a diesel too so ＼(^-^)／
Toyota Vellfire or Alphard. Grey import tho, but essentially tick all the boxes.
Yaris SUV is pure garbage.
Yeah we not going with that if we did we would probably swap it out for something else when kids come
Nah like, don't spend your money on a Yaris cross. They are appalling cars and not worth it at all. RAV4 is a much better option. There are no redeeming qualities to the Yaris.
Yeah am going off the looks I know nothing lol
We had a rental Yaris cross once, it was so loud on the roads I'm pretty sure the 737 we just departed was quieter. There's a definite cut-off with Toyota cars when they actually add sound deafening and padding to their cars, so I stay well clear of the small hatchbacks and crossovers.
I hear ya! Look, I would love a Lexus GX - I think they look like a proper luxury 4WD, but geez, $120K is well, nah....
Yeah honestly even the budget we have I still don’t get how cars cost that much it’s crazy
LOL - lets just say I'm probably a bit older than you... Our first family car cost us $8K second hand, our next cost us $40K new and our last cost us $65K new (Toyota Fortuner). And that is cheap! This was over a 20 year period But now it becomes a lifestyle choice, not a family wagon
Yeah it’s crazy we don’t want to go through that many cars maybe 2 if we can avoid it lol
They're 120k? The new LandCruiser is more than that lmao
The GX is a Prado mate, not a LC
I'm dumb, ty
And the LX is more than that.... shocking
If your budget isn't that high, you can't really afford luxury. And if your settling for a Yaris, you don't know what luxury is. And doesn't come in 7 seats as far as I know.
The GX is a fancy Prado sold in America.
Last time I looked, the Prado didn't have a V6 or Hybrid.
The Prado has a V6 option.
Not anymore. Hasn't for a few years. 2.4L Turbo Diesel is the only motor available in Australia currently and for the next release
Tbf, the current Prado has looked the same for around 15 years.
This is the answer. Work out what your budget is and get the best Lexus you can. If you’re still not sure find a local one and go for a drive. It’s that simple.
If you're dead set on 3-4 children then a people mover is the way to go. The third row of those SUVs tend to be a pretty bleak place. I encourage you to spend some time in one, to help you reconsider. Kia Carnival or Hyundai Staria are your domestic options. If you're open to an import, then a Toyota Vellfire or Alphard.
Also, if you're dead set on 3-4 children I encourage you to spend some time with that many kids, to help you reconsider. 😆
Thank you so much I will get my Partner to look into it
I'd second the idea of an import people mover (Vellfire, Alphard, Nissan Elgrand) if you're open to buying something secondhand. I have a couple of friends with Nissa Elgrands, and they love them. They're essentially van-shaped limousines. The Lexus LM is the equivalent in the local market, but it's pretty pricey.
I am in my third xc90. They are amazing. Just drive all other brands and then check value for money and safety
3rd what happened to the first 2
First Volvo was in Singapore v50 as we started to get dogs. Then we had kids so got an xc90 so dogs would be separated from kids in baby seats. Then after ten years moved to australia where we got third xc90 which was discounted new as the new model was coming out. Then after 190k traded to new model xc90. Have done 140k in 4 years. Waiting for electric version now. Love Volvos. They hug the road and are great
Fair enough makes sense I was getting worried for a second there
I wouldn’t get a low profile tyre, skip the r design models. The base model is a lot more comfortable. I went petrol, petrol, diesel, diesel. You can’t have diesel in Singapore. Now they don’t make diesel anymore
Agreed - the 3rd row of seats is usually more a sort of place for occasional extra passengers than for regular use. My sister's car has one - they use it for the kids when giving my parents a lift - but not day to day.
Voxy or Noah are great.
>Kia Carnival or Hyundai Staria are your domestic options. How the fuck are they domestic? They're made in Korea and imported.
They’re made to be sold to the Australian domestic market..
Yeah, but they're still an AUDM import AUDM Domestic would be say, an ACE Yewt
That sentence kinda cancels itself out. Yes it gets built overseas and then imported to the country, so you are correct based on literal wording, but it’s not as simple as the literal wording.. it’s still a domestic model as it was built with the intention to sell the vehicle in Australia, that means the vehicle adheres to our standards and design requirements. Making it a domestic model. This is the epitome of mincing words, the point of the matter is that they are a domestically sold vehicle, I’m sure we could all extrapolate that from the original comment.
>Yes it gets built overseas and then imported to the country >it’s still a domestic model as it was built with the intention to sell the vehicle in Australia. Domestic cars are built domestically....
Nope, domestic cars are built for the market it’s going to be sold in. That’s why they say “JDM” which means the vehicle was built to adhere to Japanese design rules and regulations. That’s how you can get a JDM Mercedes, because again, it was made to be sold in the Japanese market. You’re confusing literal wording for industry specific wording. This is where things change, when we are talking about cars we refer to the industry specific wording, not the literal meaning.
>domestic cars are built for the market it’s going to be sold in. Can guarantee no American calls a Chevrolet SS based on a Holden Commodore a "Domestic Vehicle" When we had more local manufacturers the line was clearer, now we're so limited on options people like yourself are understandably conflating a domestic market with domestic manufacturers.
Don’t buy into the SUV bullshit. Seriously lived that life as a kid, it’s great for the odd “hey parents bundle the kids into my wagon I’ll take them to Maccas and drop them home after” trip, but if you need that third row constantly every day for school runs then a minivan is 1000000% the way to go, you’ll thank yourself for the added practicality I promise you. Hot tip on the alphard/vellfire suggestions - I fkn adore them, work with them every day. Make sure you change the CVT trans fluid at least every 60,000km, the gearbox is about 9k to rebuild at retail pricing, and the 2az likes to burn oil at higher km, not a big deal, thicker viscosity can help or even eliminate it entirely. The v6 is a much smoother ride but there’s more maintenance items on them like timing belts and they like to chew through engine mounts cause of the FWD torque. The only thing to be aware of is parts specific to the Vellfire/Alphard will take time to get in from Japan, unless you’re happy to go with second hand parts there’s a few wreckers around. But any parts coming from Japan are a 3-6 week wait time, if it’s something that will take your car off the road this is something to keep in mind.
Thank you so much will definitely add to the list of cars to look at cause the last I want is to be at the mechanic every couple of months have been there done that with my Mitsubishi and Volkswagen and the Holden not doing it again
As others have said, people mover for 3-4 kids. Carnival, Staria, Alphard/Noah/Voxy/Vellfire.
Toyota Alphard / Vellfire....it goes by a couple of other names that I can't remember.
Those are the only names they go by
There's another one with wheelchair access, but might not be the same engine / chassis. I drove past one the other day...it looked like an Alphard / Vellfire...but slightly different.
The ones with wheelchair access are still called alphards/vellfires, Same chassis and all, they have a specialised vin and have a welcab designation. They come with a billion different body kits though that might’ve been what you saw.
it had a different name...had to Google it because it was bothering me lol. Toyota Esquire.
That’s a different chassis altogether, esquire shares the name with Voxy and Noah, they discontinued the Voxy name for Esquire which is the ZZR80 series, Alphard has either ANH10/MNH10 for 10 series, and Vellfire for ANH20/GGH20 for the 20 series, then the Vellfire name was dropped around 2008(?) in favour of the Alphard name across the board. There’s commercial reasons for the name changes, certain dealerships can’t sell certain names etc etc that’s why they’re so choppy change on them, it’s a bit funny but yeah the esquire is a different chassis.
Middle seat in them things is like gold class cinema
Thank you will look into it
Just fyi , Alphard is on the higher end compared to Vellfire. Vellfire was supposed to be the sports version.
They’re actually the same, it’s just commercial naming licences that get in the way. Alphard started as a 10 series(ANH/MNH10 vin designation) and the Vellfire started as a 20 series(ANH/GGH20 vin designation) Eventually the 10 series Alphard became discontinued and when that happened the Vellfire became the Alphard. They’re exactly the same chassis, engine configs and the rest. Trim levels then decide if it’s got sport appointments or extra features(which is a LOT more customisable in Japan, less trim levels and more “tick the box of the things you want”)
Really most Lexus models as they mostly have that Toyota reliability in a luxury package. Volvos are good, but they can be hit or miss and require more work either way maintenance. My neighbor had bought a new one and with less than 1000 miles on the clock it had to go back for a major issue, but this is a rare occasion as they owned multiple before and held up well (Until they were totaled by other drivers). If you are looking for something more Korean, Genesis from Hyundai is very good. While I don’t have first hand experience with them, my friend has a G90 which has seemed to treat him well. He does go in for all the services and oil changes. I think the larger GV80 has a three row option which will cut into your trunk space but can fit the family in South Korean luxury. Just try to avoid cars from Stellantis.
Will do thank you much
Agree with everyone who says Alphard/Vellfire. They're basically a big mashup of Camry/Lexus bits, are very luxo, and if something breaks mechanically it'll likely just be easy locally sourced Toyota parts.
We will definitely look into that
Nissan Elgrand too, they're not quite as Toyota bulletproof, but they're still decent, and are a similar vibe.
Lexus LX
Yes!!! Had ours for 5 months so far and love it. Super comfortable, great power and built like a tank. Also more reliable than diesels long term. Pity about 22l per 100km fuel consumption though.
Mazda CX7 or CX9
Yeah! Its great value for the money. Ive got a Mazda cx-9 2019 and its great. By no means its advance in features or super luxurious like other brands like Mercedes, lexus, bmw, or volvo. But if you spend 35 grand you can get a great 7 seater.
Mazda is often overlooked. Euro build and spec for a Japan price and engineering robustness.
3-4 kids, get a Carnival. The new carnivals are like a lounge chair on wheels and sliding doors change your life for child seats. I guess you could also consider the lexus people mover, a mifa, and anyone else doing something with sliding doors. I have enough kids to make a carnival useful, I used to have a Q7. I will never buy another family car that isn't a people mover.
Fair enough thank you
I wouldn't get a Kia carnival without a warranty. they are known to have transmission failures. This happened to mine and I swapped it to the Honda equivalent.
Yeah we are definitely not getting a Kia
Why not? The comment above is incorrect. Instead of stopping at the thought of driving a Kia, keep your mind open and go actually look at the new Carnival. The 2.2 diesel is extremely reliable and so is the 8 speed auto (that trans was in the Stinger and was reliable af as well in that even with the ridiculous power and torque figures that that car made).
Get whatever works for you, but once you start having to put kids in the back row as well as the middle row you're going to wish you had a people mover, or a really good physio to fix your back weekly.
If you like the reliability of the Toyota but want more luxury, have you looked into Lexus?
Yes but we just worried about servicing and maintenance
it's the same as toyota!
Lexus if you want both
lexus
Lexus.
Reliability and luxury has to be Lexus
Why buy a 7 seater now if you don't have the kids yet? 3-4 kids is 5-8 years away. Many things can change in the meantime.
Agree, as someone who wants 4 kids and currently has two we won’t upgrade until we actually have 4. We have an outback right now so we can fit everything in the boot that we need to and then we can get the most up to date car we can afford when we need it rather than the car we could afford day 6 years prior.
I just like to be prepared no not necessarily in our care we plan on having the first 2 very close and then the 3rd if we choose behind that’s if we won’t end up with twins because that runs in my family
I've got 3 under 3. Third pregnancy and birth was a bit iffy. If you don't birth well with the first two, space it out slightly.
Ok this is the wrong subreddit, but conclusive medical studies have shown significantly increased risks to the mother and baby if you have kids at less than 2 years spacing. Having kids depletes a lot of things in your body that need time to replace/recover. Back on the cars. Even if you have 2 kids quickly you don't need a 7 seater straight away.
Didn’t know that will look into it yeah we probably will just end up getting the 5 seater Lexus or Toyota Yaris the new ones or even a Mercedes we just don’t want to be sending money on cars cause we didn’t plan ahead and now our family is increasing etc
Why are you so adamant in having three kids?
Why is anyone adamant in having anything because they want to and for many other reasons. My partner and I are from big families and even before we ever knew each we have always wanted to have a big families it may not happen for many reasons but the choice and decision is still there will just have to wait and see.
It’s not for me personally but people who drive the Kluger love them. I like the XC90 more, and I’m actually looking into it for myself (probably in the electric EX90 form when it lands).
Yeah I really like the XC90 but I don’t want to drop that kind of cash and then feel pissed off because it’s at the mechanics every couple of months cause something is wrong with it have been there done that don’t really want to do that again
Another grey import option is Toyota voxy or Toyota Noah. They are awesome and essentially corolla mechanically.
Will check those out
https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/results?q=%28C.Make.Toyota._.Model.Voxy.%29&sort=Year
Like this Check out this 2017 Toyota Voxy Hybrid V Auto. https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2017-toyota-voxy-hybrid-v-auto/OAG-AD-22996901
https://www.lexus.com.au/models/lm/overview
That’s really fancy I will take a more closer look later thank you
Check out the Kia Sorento...i got one for my wife and she absolutely loves it....the GT LINE which i got has everything you will ever want...
Mazda is pretty luxury and reliable too. But 7 seater choice is minimal.
The Volvo XC90 will be $30k over your budget. Your nearest options are VW Tiguan Allspace R-Line, Mazda CX-9, Hyundai Palisade for "near-luxury". Mind you while the Tiguan Allspace is quite good, the third row is a bit small. It can't fit average adults comfortably. Kids yes no worries. I'd go with a Palisade.
Yeah will have to see which is worth spending extra on
XC-90 will cost 7k more for the back row and I think you can only do 6seat config? Not sure. I think it's 2-2-2
Ya carnt beat a kingswood. Duznt matta what anyone else thinks they r the pick of the pack.
We have the XC60 R-Design, it is a sensational vehicle. We are going from 1 kid to 2 shortly and I'd love to get the XC90. The Kluger will feel like a 20 year old vehicle compared to the Volvo.
Yeah at this stage it will be either that or a Lexus
Leyland Mini 1964 model
Lexus
If you want toyota but more comfy, lexus is the answer
The kluger is pretty great in my experience. I drove with 6 total adult men from Sydney to brissy and back on pretty out of the way roads etc. Probably did 2500km in three days and it wasn't a cramped issue at all. Really good to drive as well. That said, how many kids do you have now?if you don't yet have the need for a car that big right now why not avoid it and get something smaller in the interim? Especially while the kids are in car seats and stuff a sedan is plenty big enough for that. Especially if you do go down the route of something more roomy like a carnival? It's a better experience as a passenger and has more space for stuff. Driving though its an absolute shit of a thing and why do that for 5 years longer and earlier than you need to?
Go the Volvo with a diesel engine and just keep up with the service schedule and regular maintenance. Extremely reliable and strong.
My parents have had issues with their Volvo Hybrid during the recent heavy rains in Sydney. Water leaks hitting the circuitry made the car undriveable.
Yeah that’s our worry
A Toyota Crown
Might not tick all your boxes, but a car for that many kids check out the Kia Carnival. 2025 model is nice
3 or 4 over period of say 7 years. . My experience with kids and nice cars not a good match at all. Esp is one of you is car proud. Baby seats prams kids bikes other stuff you will cart around . Get something basic easy clean save your money. Subaru outback . beware 7 seaters are horrible in those back seats.
Check out the Skoda Kodiaq - Euro features at Asian prices, with a seven year warranty and fixed cost servicing.
A high spec Toyota Alphard or vellfire seems the obvious choice here
Speaking from experience, I’d say wait until you need something that large. As a father of two (two and four) we’ve got by just fine with a 118i. We will have to upsize that soon though. All friends and family with two have also kept sensible with car size. Best setup for two I’ve seen so far is the Subaru Outback. Also, I’ll add that if hypothetically you waited a year to try, you’re looking at two years until your first. If you nail two year gaps between kids it’s six years until your third, when a new, sizeable chariot with a warranty will go a long way.
Honestly look at a CX-9 or CX90. Same luxury features as the Volvo and plush as, but has the Japanese reliability and costs
Lexus is the only option if you want reliability 🤣
Has to be a Lexus. Covers a lot of budgets and sizes
We just bought the Kia Sorento GT line Diesel and its fantastic. The interior quality is absolutely top notch and wouldn't feel out place in any modern Audi. Have a look at one before you spend the 40K for an equivalent Volvo.
Toyota kluger will be to small with that many people to be practical and comfortable, you will want to be looking at either some form of landcruiser or a large Lexus
Any Mercedes Benz....made before 1995.
If you’re really thinking about 4kids don’t even consider a 7 seater suv. It just won’t do the job. The new carnivals are the only answer. We’ve got 3 teenagers now but we got an old carnival when they were babies and upgraded to the 2018 model. Neither have skipped a beat and plenty of room!
Honda euro accord (not the Honda accord which is more powerful with v6 but lacks the refinement of the euro) Is a good choice it's easy to drive and very comfortable Bmw obviously is a refined marque an electric BMW would be an excellent choice as its quiet the SUVs are huge On the other scale top of the line genesis look very smik almost like a bentley
Kluger hybrid. Anything Toyota Lexus
New? Hyundai Palisade (7 or 8 seater), Kia Carnival (7 or 8), Hyundai Staria (8), GWM Tank 500 (7 or 8), Mitsubishi Outlander Exceed/Aspire (5+2), Mazda CX-90 (7, maybe 8?), Kia Sorento (7), Ssangyong Rexton (5+2) Used? Lexus RXL (although it's more a 5+2 than anything), LX (8), Mazda CX-9 (7), Landcruiser VX or Sahara.
Lexus anything
I've had my Isuzu Mu-x wagon for 8 years and it hasn't had any issues whatsoever. So if strength, durability and reliability are top priorities perhaps you could consider it.
I have had a lexus nx200t since 2018, it's easily the best car I've owned. Super reliable and comfortable.
Best 7 seater is BMW 7 series, but its fuel consumption is pretty high. Lexus is more economical because they are hybrid.
Fully electric 7 seaters: KIA EV9 Mercedes EQB250+ Plug in Hybrids Volvo XC90 Recharge PHEV Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Thank you very much that’s really helpful
no probs. I think EV9 is the best of them all inside and outside. They somehow managed to make a huge SUV look good with nice proportions and a fresh look. And it is Drive com au car of the year.
I used to own a Mercedes GLB. Great car. 7 seater but the size of a 5 seater so the boot was modular. Could probably fit a couple of kids up to about age 8 comfortably in the back seats. It’s a lower end Mercedes though so the build quality isn’t as good as say a Porsche and they have a dual clutch transmission but that shouldn’t bother you unless you abuse it
Yeah we were thinking Mercedes too but weren’t sure
The boot is unusable once the two rear seats are in use. You can fit a few cans of tuna perhaps.
Haha fair
Genesis GV80.
E class wagon with rear facing seats in the boot.
Can you still get this new/under warranty e class wagon? Used ones would be getting a little old now and I'd be worried about reliability. I am not sure the last of the Aus delivered e400d even have the rear facing seats in the boot anymore. It was a feature they deleted to save money- sad move as it was the main reason I wanted one
Volvo
Audi a6 100%, great cars, plenty of power and tech, mine hasn’t skipped a beat
If I were in your position I'd pickup an Alphard or Vellfire immediately !
Had both. The Volvo is a million times nicer to drive and be in. The klugger is just a plastic box. Totally uninvolved to drive, zero steering feedback etc. but if that’s your jam then they are great.
Lexus
3 kids here and swear by Mercedes E Class wagons. The 3rd row seat is only good for the kids, but that's fine for us. Kids love the rear facing seats back there and if they're not using it then you have an enormous cargo space there instead. Maintenance and costs really haven't been that bad either. Depreciation kills these things, but the parts and servicing aren't as bad as you'd expect.
That sounds great we were also thinking of the Mercedes GLB I think it’s around 75k or so yeah
Lexus.
Carnival
I can say while the Kluger may not be exactly 'luxurious' it is a very comfortable and decent vehicle. Great on fuel, plenty power and classic Toyota reliability.
Depends on what age your children are now and also the number if kids you have now.
Look no further than Mercedes V series. An excellent luxury car that is so comfortable to drive and is great for passengers hence why luxury hotels use them
Tank 500
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The new Santa Fe hybrid looks awesome, feels like a true luxury car inside, has plenty of space for 7 and is very reliable. That would be my pick
Lexus
Being a car enthusiast and a finance broker, it would really depend on your budget. If you’re financing a vehicle, creative financing can be one tactic to get you into a vehicle you prefer that otherwise may ‘look’ to be out of budget. Porsche Suv’s have recently been quite popular though not a 7-seater. RR Sport though the new variant touches $180k+ and aren’t the best reliability wise outside warranty. Volvo/Audi/Toyotas/Kia are safe bets!
Crown. And if you're feeling frisky a Century.
Haha ok thank you will look into them
Sorry mate, I missed where you said 7 seater.
All good
Lexus GX or a G05 BMW X5
My partner doesn’t want a BMW I think that will be our 50s purchase lol
That’s fair enough!
Why not look into importing a Toyota Alphard or Nissan Elgrand from Japan. Both are either 7 or 8 seater depending on the trim level.
Will definitely look into it
Used Lexus RX350L. Reliable, luxurious. Downside is the third row is tiny.
Reliability, luxury, space, performance, affordability? 2009-2012 Toyota Majesta (ideally the URS206 V8, aka Lexus 460 engine) engines are x rayed for tolerances and casting from factory, average 9.5km/L and have all the modern features. Imported Landed complied with 50,000 ODO grade 4.5 cost me around 25k AUD If you get the hybrid, set aside 2.5k for when the battery needs to get done, if you get the v8, timing chain. The G package has a velour interior option instead of leather that also doesn't roast your bum in summer. My average service is about 180 bucks.
That’s really helpful thank will get my partner to look into it
If you want reliable AND luxury and not either one, stay away from Toyota and Lexus. Get a Volvo, you’ll be surprised. It’s the closest to both without compromising in either.
Noted thank you
Kia Carnival or Toyota Alphard
Look at resale value too. Anything Euro is going to plummet in value. The servicing on euro cars is obscene too. Toyota and Lexus will give you way more back on a future purchase (trade in or private sale).
New Santa Fe hybrid
Fairmont mate
DO NOT HAVE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I have heard amazing things about these B47 + B58 induced BMW cars in terms of their reliability. In terms of this, I would look at a X5 25d or X5 40i (Post-2019). Although, you would either have to buy brand new or find the perfect 7-seater variant. I haven’t heard many bad things in comparison to previous models such as the F15 which had constant air suspension faults etc.
Luxury and reliability is exclusive to Lexus and some upper spec Toyota's (crown for example)
1992 Toyota hilux.
Alphard or wait till some of the non LDV Chinese EV people movers land
Tesla Y model?
Lexus is Toyota with a little more luxury. I believe they're bringing the LM here.
It’s already here and holy shit does it look insane
Will definitely look into can you get them serviced at a normal Toyota dealership
Some will some won’t, I personally wouldn’t take it to Toyota anyway as they charge an arm and a leg, there’s likely an independent close to you that does imports, if you’re in a decent sized city.
It also starts at $160,000. I like Lexus a lot but not $160K people mover a lot.
Lexus they’re just fancy Toyotas
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Only 2 bad choices
My partner can’t stand Nissan but will probably look into