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In this article we introduce top 7 Japanese import recommended hybrid minivan models that are convenient for traveling with large groups of people. The models range from affordable family models to vehicles that pursue driving performance and luxury minivans.
Hybrid minivans have much more advantages than compared to petrol-only powered vehicles, such as fuel efficiency and the ability to have a bit more power on board than petrol-only vehicles. We consider not only the number of passengers such as families, but also the usage, frequency, driving performance to bring you the best recommendations.
Figure 1 - Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive Technology & Nissan e-power & Honda e:HEV
Minivans are particularly popular among families and active individuals who enjoy leisure activities and need to carry a lot of luggage. However, due to their weight, they generally have lower fuel efficiency compared to compact cars. This is why hybrid minivans are gaining attention.
Historically, hybrid cars have been seen as highly advantageous for lighter vehicles, with the category being most popular in light sedans and compact cars. But with technological advancements, it is now possible to achieve good fuel efficiency even in larger, heavier vehicles like minivans, leading to an increase in their numbers. Currently, the focus is on hybrid versions of existing models rather than vehicles designed exclusively as hybrids.
Despite the narrowing price gap due to technological improvements and wider adoption, hybrid cars remain more expensive than gasoline cars. However, when considering acquisition tax, annual automobile tax reductions, and better fuel efficiency, the longer you drive and the more mileage you cover, the more cost-effective hybrids become.
Beyond their excellent fuel economy and significant tax benefits, hybrid minivans also offer the advantages of being quieter and contributing to environmental protection, benefits that go beyond the vehicle itself.
Tip: Did you know that some hybrids can supply 110V 1500W electrical power which can be more than enough to connect an electric bbq, a kettle or even a coffee machine? Yes, hybrids can be very useful for camping and in Japan they are heavily used during bad weather or earthquake situations where household electricity is cut-off temporarily.
Figure 2 - Hybrid vehicle sales are catching up in Australia
Below, we will highlight the appeal and benefits of hybrid minivan models:
The primary advantage of hybrid vehicles is their fuel efficiency. Typically, hybrid cars use an electric motor to handle driving situations that consume more fuel, such as starting and low-speed driving, thereby mitigating the weaknesses of engine-driven cars. This is particularly beneficial for minivans, which are heavier and require more power, especially when starting. Hybrid models can significantly reduce fuel consumption during these times, leading to improved fuel efficiency compared to gasoline-powered cars.
The benefits of hybrid minivans become more apparent with higher annual mileage, and over time, the cost savings can offset the initial price difference of the vehicle.
Hybrid cars are generally quieter and have less vibration inside the cabin because they use an electric motor to assist the engine during high fuel consumption scenarios, such as starting or driving at low speeds. It certainly raises eyebrows amongst people when they see the car moving but no engine sound is present 😊
When the vehicle reaches a certain speed, it switches to engine drive, but since the car is moving at a constant speed, the engine operates at a lower RPM, resulting in minimal noise and vibration. Even within the same model, hybrid versions are typically much quieter than their gasoline counterparts.
Tip: Did you know that some hybrids can use the EV mode or drive on the electric motors without using the internal combustion engine up to 100km/h on the road? Yes, the electric motors can be quite efficient allowing the car to almost “glide” on the highway.
Additionally, hybrid cars are environmentally friendly. By using both an engine and a motor, they reduce the consumption of fuels like gasoline and diesel. This leads to lower emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which contribute to global warming, and nitrogen compounds, which are harmful to human health. Thus, hybrid cars are not only economical but also beneficial for the environment.
Figure 3 - Toyota Estima AHR20W 2011 2.4L Hybrid highway fuel consumption in NSW (roughly 5.8L/100km)
Let’s check the most popular and recommended hybrid minivan models amongst drivers.
1. Toyota Alphard/Vellfire Hybrid
The Alphard and its sister model, the Vellfire, have firmly established themselves as Toyota’s luxury minivans, to the extent that the aspiration has shifted from “Someday I’ll have a Lexus” to “Someday I’ll have an Alphard.” These vehicles offer exceptional ride comfort, characterized by a high level of quietness and a rear double wishbone suspension typically found in racing cars.
In addition to their spacious interiors, they feature wood-grain trim that exudes luxury and high-quality seats that create a blissful and relaxing environment.
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Car name | Alphard/Vellfire Hybrid |
| Grade | Alphard HYBRID S “TYPE GOLD II |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,950mm×1,850mm×1,950mm |
| Drive system | 4WD |
| Maximum power | 112kW（152PS）／5,700rpm |
| Maximum torque | 206N・m（21.0kgf・m）／4,400〜4,800rpm |
| Passenger capacity | 7 people |
| Displacement | 2.493L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | 18.4km／L |
See all of our Toyota Alphard or Toyota Vellfire 2015+ 30 series grades available.
2. Toyota Voxy/Noah Hybrid
The hybrid models of Toyota’s standard minivan, the “Noah,” and its sister car, the “Voxy,” achieve 19.0 km/L in WLTC mode, which closely approximates actual fuel consumption.
Toyota Voxy Hybrid
Toyota Noah Hybrid
These vehicles feature a low floor design with a ground clearance of just 360mm, wide-opening sliding doors, and supportive grips, making entry and exit easy for everyone from small children to the elderly. The spacious interior ensures a comfortable travel experience. Additionally, they are equipped with comprehensive safety features, including a function to prevent collisions caused by mis stepping, and a laser radar and camera system to detect pedestrians and obstacles, aiding in collision avoidance.
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Car name | Voxy/Noah Hybrid |
| Grade | VOXY HYBRID ZS "Kirameki III" |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,710mm×1,735mm×1,825mm |
| Drive system | 2WD |
| Maximum power | 73kW（99PS）／5,200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 142N・m（14.5）／4,000rpm |
| Passenger capacity | 7 people |
| Displacement | 1.797L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | 22.8km／L |
3. Nissan Serena e-POWER
An internal combustion engine generating electricity brings so many questions but rest assured, it’s more economical vehicle than just the petrol only version.
The Nissan Serena e-POWER minivan features an innovative powertrain where the engine generates electricity, and the vehicle is driven solely by the motor, similar to an electric vehicle. This 100% motor-driven system provides powerful acceleration from the moment you press the accelerator pedal.
Like gasoline-powered vehicles, it offers the largest space among 1.2-2.0L class minivans, with a total height exceeding 1.8 meters and seating for 7-8 people. The highly flexible seat arrangement ensures comfortable travel for both everyday use and leisure activities.
| Manufacturer | Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. |
| Car name | Serena e-POWER |
| Grade | e-POWER Highway Star |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,770mm x 1,740mm x 1,865mm |
| Drive system | 2WD |
| Maximum power | 100kW (136PS) |
| Maximum torque | 320N・m (32.6kgf・m) |
| Passenger capacity | 7 people |
| Displacement | 1.198L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | 26.0km/L |
Additionally, the Serena e-POWER is equipped with numerous safety features, including the “360° Safety Assist” function, which helps prevent pedal misapplication, lane departure prevention, and sign detection, all standard on every vehicle.
In summary, it has much smaller engine than what you’d typically find in a people mover class of vehicles, but it’s only used to generate the electricity needed to take you from point A to point B. It’s kind of like a Tesla but on petrol.
4. Honda Stepwagon Spada
The “Stepwagon Spada e:HEV” features the “e:HEV” system. The “EV drive mode” allows the vehicle to function as an electric vehicle (EV) when starting or driving in the city. The “hybrid drive mode” is utilized for power-demanding situations, such as accelerating or climbing hills. The “engine drive mode” conserves battery power by using the engine during highway cruising. These three drive modes not only enhance fuel efficiency but also deliver powerful performance.
Honda STEPWGN SPADA HYBRID G・EX Honda SENSING
Honda STEPWGN SPADA eHEV - 1990cc 2.0 (215PS) Petrol Hybrid
With an interior height of 1,405 mm and ample headroom, the vehicle provides a sense of spaciousness throughout. The wide-open view enhances driving ease, ensuring comfort for all passengers, from the first to the third row.
| Manufacturer | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (HONDA) |
| Car name | Stepwagon Spada |
| Grade | STEP WGN SPADA e:HEV G・Honda SENSING |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,760mm x 1,695mm x 1,840mm |
| Drive system | 2WD |
| Maximum power | ■ Engine 107kW (145PS) / 6,200rpm ■ Electric motor 135kW (184PS) / 5,000-6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | ■ Engine 175N・m (17.8kgf・m) / 4,000rpm ■ Motor 315N・m (32.1kgf・m) / 0-2,000rpm |
| Passenger capacity | 7 people |
| Displacement | 1.993L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | 25.0km/L |
5. Honda Odyssey e:HEV
The Odyssey is a renowned luxury minivan from Honda, featuring the advanced e:HEV system for its powertrain. It is much shorter than your typical minivan and its lower to the ground body makes driving more stable providing a feeling the car is floating on the road like any limousine.
Figure 4 - 2016 HONDA ODYSSEY 4D WAGON (HYBRID) RC
The horizontal dashboard design provides a wide field of vision, with meters positioned above the steering wheel for natural visibility, minimizing eye movement and helping drivers stay focused on the road ahead.
Additionally, the ultra-low platform enhances stability while maintaining a spacious interior. Despite being a minivan, it offers the stability of a sedan, allowing for dynamic driving.
| Manufacturer | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (HONDA) |
| Car name | Odyssey e:HEV |
| Grade | Odyssey e:HEV ABSOLUTE |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,855mm x 1,820mm x 1,695mm |
| Drive system | FF |
| Maximum power | ■ Engine 107kW (145PS) / 6,200rpm ■ Electric motor 135kW (184PS) / 5,000-6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | ■ Engine 175N・m (17.8kgf・m) / 4,000rpm ■ Electric Motor 315N・m (32.1kgf・m) / 0-2,000rpm |
| Passenger capacity | 7/8 people |
| Displacement | 1.993L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | ■ 7-seater 24.4km/L ■ 8-seater 25.2km/L |
To see all our Honda Odyssey Hybrid models with more photos, prices and details, click here.
6. Toyota Estima Hybrid
The Estima is a large minivan with a 30-year history. The local Australian equivalent is the Toyota Tarago but only the Toyota Estima in Japan was released as a hybrid version. One of the reasons why families love this car is due to the open interior space. The Estima has three rows of seats and can accommodate 7 or 8 passengers.
The aero-dynamic or “egg” shape is based on simple designs and a bit of futuristic touch with the dashboard. The first Estima hybrid was released in 2001, powered by 2.4L DOHC engine with motors mounted on the front and rear. If you have any doubts about the hybrid system, rest assured, the Estima uses the same hybrid drivetrain which can also be found on the Lexus hybrid models so you are getting technology that’s available in premium Lexus models. Even though the vehicle weighs more than 1.5 tons, Toyota engineers recorded a low fuel consumption of 18km/L which is roughly the same we have seen with other Toyota Estima hybrid owners.
The last models of the hybrid Estima are equipped with the collision avoidance support package “Toyota Safety Sense C”. It combines a camera and a laser radar with functions such as:
Other cool features are the Hill Start Assist Control which helps with a smooth start on hills and an emergency brake signal that alerts following vehicles if the vehicle brakes suddenly.
To check all our Estima vehicles, please click on the link.
Figure 5 - Basic specifications of the hybrid model
7. Toyota Esquire Hybrid
This is the hybrid model of the Esquire, a sister car that shares the same platform as the Noah and Voxy and exudes a sense of luxury and quality. It’s meant to be the direct competitor to the Alphard and Vellfire although it’s kind of like David vs Goliath comparing the two. The minivans continue to be equipped with 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engines or THS II hybrid power plants, with the Esquire featuring a distinctive T-shaped chrome grille and new two-way headlights. Additionally, the updated Esquire includes enhanced interior features such as a central armrest, USB charging terminals, and quieter sliding door mechanisms, along with new rims, interior lighting options, and a sports suspension from TRD and Modellista.
In addition to adopting a front grille that combines overwhelming presence and stylishness, the rear gate and sides are also made of chrome parts, creating an atmosphere appropriate for a mid-sized, high-end minivan. The interior height is high at 1,400 mm, and the rear sliding door slides widely at 805 mm, making it easy to get in and out. There are a variety of seat arrangements, and the second row is equipped with captain seats. Another nice feature is that it can slide up to 810 mm, so you can stretch your legs out and travel in a relaxed position.
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Car name | Esquire Hybrid |
| Grade | Esquire HYBRID Gi |
| Body size (length x width x height) | 4,695mm x 1,695mm x 1,825mm |
| Drive system | 2WD |
| Maximum power | 73kW (99PS) / 5,200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 142N・m (14.5kgf・m)/4,000rpm |
| Passenger capacity | 7 people |
| Displacement | 1.797L |
| Fuel consumption rate (JC08) | 22.8km/L |
Minivans are a category that is popular among a wide range of people because of their ease of use, spacious interiors, and the ability to transport large groups of people and carry plenty of luggage. Hybrid minivans, which have solved the fuel efficiency problem that was previously considered a weakness due to their heavy weight, have attracted a lot of attention and have a wide lineup.
If you are going to buy one, be sure to check out the reviews and reputations of owners and choose one that suits your needs.
If you have any questions, suggestions or frustrations, please email me.
Safe roads!
Xo,
Natalia
Your JDM addict
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Q: What is the difference between a hybrid vehicle and an electric vehicle (EV)?
The primary difference between hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles is their power sources. Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered solely by an electric motor, while hybrid vehicles have two power sources: a gasoline or fuel-powered engine and an electric motor. Hybrid vehicles can continue to operate using gasoline or other fuels even if the battery is low, whereas electric vehicles cannot run if they run out of electricity. However, electric vehicles are known for their extremely low operating costs since they run entirely on electricity, eliminating the need for fuel.
Q: How much difference is there in fuel efficiency between gasoline cars and hybrid cars?
The fuel efficiency difference between gasoline and hybrid cars varies significantly by model, but hybrid cars are generally about 30-40% more fuel efficient in both catalog and real-world conditions. This efficiency gap is often more pronounced in minivans, which are relatively lightweight.
Fuel efficiency is influenced by factors such as throttle usage and the frequency of acceleration and deceleration. For hybrid cars, you can achieve better fuel efficiency by effectively using the motor during acceleration and starting, so gentle use of the accelerator is recommended.
Q: Is it true that hybrid cars are more expensive to buy second-hand than gasoline cars?
Yes, hybrid cars, including minivans, tend to be more expensive to buy second-hand compared to gasoline cars. This is due to their increasing popularity driven by excellent fuel efficiency and tax benefits. The price of a used car is influenced not only by its intrinsic value but also by its market popularity, which significantly affects price trends. Consequently, popular hybrid minivans often have higher purchase and trade-in prices than their gasoline counterparts. Although the initial investment is higher, the benefits of hybrid minivans, such as lower maintenance costs, better fuel efficiency, and higher resale value, can offset the initial expense.
