What every Filipino family during holidays asks is not having a car or not but rather choosing it. Realizing that most Filipino families will want getaways during the Christmas season, searching for the best minivan or family cars in the Philippines is ideal to ensure safety and health security when traveling.

With diverse models of almost all popular brands, it’s easy to get confused about what kind of car to get, which is why we put up this guide. It can give you insights before you apply for a car loan or purchase one.

Here are some cars you might want to consider buying.

1. Nissan Urvan NV350

The Nissan Urvan NV350 combines a rugged construction—with clean, modern looks—for a vehicle that’s equal parts work and play. With available seating for up to eighteen, this little van is perfect for work and recreation, with ample headroom.

When you need to pack a lot of cargo and travel long distances, the Nissan Urvan is your go-to van. With a low load floor and large, wide-opening doors, loading this van is easy. Its interior offers a mix of power and fuel economy, a 2.5-L 4-cylinder engine, and a durable design.

Price:

• 15-seater: P1,440,000
• 18-seater: P1,499,000
• Cargo: P1,172,000

 

2. Foton View Transvan

The View Transvan is the entry-level model of Foton’s diverse lineup of passenger vans. It measures 5,050 mm long, 2,030 mm wide, and 1,980 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,570 mm. The Transvan is powered by a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine delivering 90 horsepower and 225 nm of torque. It uses a 5-speed manual transmission.

More than just its unique looks, the Foton View Transvan is a spacious vehicle that can accommodate up to 15 occupants, making it an ideal family transporter or fleet service vehicle.

Price:

• 13-seater: P1,168,000
• 15-seater (2.8L): P1,168,000
• 16-seater: P1,263,000

 

3. Hyundai Grand Starex

The Grand Starex—the flagship vehicle of Hyundai in the Philippines—is a favorite of Filipino families because it has a homey feel. The Grand Starex, unlike other vans, has a curvy front design and houses its engine in the front. It does not only helps its aesthetics but also improves its performance and comfort.

It comes with a 2.5-liter CRDi diesel engine with a Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that offers higher power and torque output and better fuel efficiency. With the driver information system that is easy to use and well-designed, you can navigate your way through even the trickiest road trip with ease.

Price:

• 18-seater: P1,445,000
• Cargo (D2): P1,468,000
• Cargo (D1): P1,475,000

 

4. Toyota Hiace

The Toyota Hiace comes in many variations, including the Commuter Deluxe, Grandia Tourer, and Super Grandia. The van seats up to 12–15 people, depending on the model, and features a frugal diesel engine.

It is powered by a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine present in other Toyota models. Hiace produces 174hp and between 420 to 450 Nm of torque. It offers five different trim levels that include cloth or leather seats, depending on the model. There are two transmission choices for the Hiace, a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual.

Price:

• Cargo: P1,101,000
• Commuter: P1,379,000
• Grandia MT: P2,070,000

5. Maxus V80

The Maxus V80 is a van that can be used either for work or for family. It has a nose that resembles the front of a commercial van, with a sliding cabin door and a dual-swing outdoor at the rear. The Maxus offers fabric upholstery with an 8-way driver seat.

The Comfort variant of the V80 offers 10 reclinable seats, air conditioning, and room lamps. The Flex offers a spacious rear cabin for hauling cargo. And finally, the Transport model offers 18 seats, which makes it ideal for people transport businesses.

Safety-conscious consumers will enjoy knowing that the Maxus V80 offers security. It comes with driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts for the front occupants, two-point seatbelts for the rear passengers, reverse sensors, and ABS with EBD.

Price:

• Cargo: P1,190,000
• 13-seater: P1,570,000
• 15-seater: P1,278,000
• 18-seater: P1,288,000

 

6. Ford Transit

The Ford Transit is designed to be comfortable, versatile, and most of all, reliable. Materials have been selected for their durability and comfort throughout the vehicle. It seats up to 15 passengers in comfort and style, with aisle seats so riders can relax and enjoy the ride.

Its powerful engine delivers 135PS of maximum power and 385NM of torque while meeting stringent EU5 emission standards. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the engine helps the van achieve excellent fuel economy. The gear changes are smooth. The 2.2L Duratorq TDCi diesel engine with a 6-speed manual transmission has been paired to deliver optimal performance.

The Ford Transit is more than just a panel van – it’s a safe, flexible vehicle.

Price:

• 15-seater: P1,999,000

 

Conclusion

If you are looking for a great family car this holiday season, these six models will surely come in handy. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, but what matters most is that they’ll make sure everyone makes it home safe and sound on Christmas day. For car financing needs, GDFI has your back.