This time, we’ll be presenting a ranking of the safest minivans on sale in Japan as of 2024 (Reiwa 6). The data was compiled based on the “Automobile Assessment” published by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and the National Agency for Automotive Safety and Victims’ Aid (NASVA). We’ll be presenting the rankings, including models that have received the “Five Star Award,” the highest rating for safety performance.
Top 5 safest minivans
The Voxy and Noah received the highest scores in NASVA’s overall safety performance ranking of minivans currently on sale as of 2024. Seven vehicles (seven passenger cars, six light cars, a total of 13 vehicles) were assessed in the 2022 automobile assessment, earning the highest rating of the Five Star Award. The Toyota Voxy and Noah received the highest score of all , earning the Five Star Grand Prize.
For more details, please refer to this article.
| Ranking | Car name | Car name | Overall car safety performance score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st place | Toyota | Voxy | 186.44 points / 199 points |
| 2nd place | Toyota | Noah | 186.44 points / 199 points |
| 3rd place | Toyota | Sienta | 185.33 points / 199 points |
| 4th place | Nissan | Serena | 184.34 points / 197 points |
| 5th place | Honda | Step WGN | 183.92 points / 199 points |
1. Toyota Voxy
Toyota will be fully redesigning the new Voxy and releasing it on January 13, 2022. The previous model was released on January 20, 2014, so this will be the first full model change in eight and a half years . At present, the Voxy is a more popular model than the Noah, and as mentioned above, it is equipped with many of the same advanced features as the Noah, making it a more recommended model compared to other companies.
It uses the newly developed “GA-C platform” called ” TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) .”
The fifth-generation hybrid system employs THS II with a reduction mechanism, which combines the inline 4-cylinder DOHC 1.8L engine “2ZR-FXE” with a motor .
Uses a bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery and a pleasant pedal .
Comes standard with an external power supply function that can supply up to approximately five days’ worth of power to an average household.
The gasoline engine is a new in-line 4-cylinder 2.0L direct injection “Dynamic Force Engine . “
The front seats are equipped with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch display audio system, a T-Connect SD navigation system, and a Yamaha premium sound system with 8-channel speakers , while the rear seat entertainment system uses a 14-inch OLED display. “Apple CarPlay” and “Android Auto” are also available. A DCM in-car communication device is standard equipment.
A power tailgate (with anti-pinch function) is adopted.
It features hands- free power sliding doors on both sides .
Toyota Teammate ” Advanced Park with Remote Function ” provides on-screen and voice/buzzer guidance, and assists with backing into a target parking position confirmed on the screen and exiting from parallel parking by operating the steering wheel, shift position, accelerator and brake. Furthermore, a dedicated smartphone app is available, allowing remote operation from outside the vehicle to park.
Adopts a ” digital key ” (Voxy only). This function allows you to “lock/unlock + start the engine” using the digital key app and your smartphone’s Bluetooth® function . When using the digital key, you must first pair it with the car in the settings.
Voxy
About Toyota Voxy specs
| Specifications | Voxy |
|---|---|
| full length | 4,695mm |
| Overall width | 1,730mm |
| Overall height | 1,895mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850mm |
| engine | Inline 4 DOHC 1.8L + motor (THS II) |
| Maximum power | 72kW (98ps) / 5,200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 142Nm (14.5kgm) / 3,600rpm |
| Front motor maximum output |
70kW (95PS) |
| Front motor maximum torque |
185Nm (18.9kgfm) |
| Rear motor maximum output |
30kW (41PS) |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
84Nm (8.6kgfm) |
| System Output | 103kW (140ps) |
| gross vehicle weight | 1630kg to 1670kg |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 23.4km/L |
2. Toyota Noah
Toyota will be fully redesigning the new Noah, which will go on sale on January 13, 2022. The previous model was first released on January 20, 2014, so this will be the first full model change in eight and a half years . Toyota’s strategy is to focus more on the Noah than the Voxy, and from now on the Noah will have a wider range of grades and a cooler, more refined exterior design. In the long term, it is expected that the Noah will become more popular, just like the Alphard.
Noah
About Toyota Noah specifications
| Specifications | Noah |
|---|---|
| full length | 4,695mm |
| Overall width | 1,730mm |
| Overall height | 1,895mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850mm |
| engine | Inline 4 DOHC 1.8L + motor (THS II) |
| Maximum power | 72kW (98ps) / 5,200rpm |
| Maximum torque | 142Nm (14.5kgm) / 3,600rpm |
| Front motor maximum output |
70kW (95PS) |
| Front motor maximum torque |
185Nm (18.9kgfm) |
| Rear motor maximum output |
30kW (41PS) |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
84Nm (8.6kgfm) |
| System Output | 103kW (140ps) |
| gross vehicle weight | 1630kg to 1670kg |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 23.4km/L |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Toyota New Noah Voxy 4th Generation Fully Redesigned with TNGA, Released January 13, 2022
3. Toyota Sienta
In developing the new Sienta, the company aims to further refine the “user-friendly interior space” of the first generation, while retaining the attractive features of the “easy-to-handle 5-number size,” “latest safety and security equipment,” “low fuel consumption,” and “affordable price.”
It offers a larger interior space than the previous model. It achieves high aerodynamic performance and adopts a newly developed platform that reduces weight, lowers the center of gravity, and increases body rigidity by more than 30%, making it a significant improvement over the previous model. The suspension employs a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam coil spring rear suspension. The minimum turning radius is 5.0m, allowing for smooth maneuvering on narrow roads and in parking lots.
There’s no doubt that this new model will evolve into a completely different car. The ride quality will change with more soundproofing and improved body construction. Despite being a 5-number size, the interior space is spacious and the interior is more luxurious than the previous model.
While maintaining the easy-to-handle 5-number size that prioritizes maneuverability in everyday life, the overall height has been increased by 20 mm from the previous model to a low floor ground clearance of 330 mm, and the height of the power sliding door opening has been widened to 1200 mm, an increase of 60 mm from the previous model , making it easier to get in and out. While maintaining the flat floor with no steps, it has achieved excellent ease of getting in and out of the rear seats.
The height of the back door opening has been increased by 15 mm (compared to the previous model), and the luggage compartment height has also been increased by 20 mm (compared to the previous model), making it easier to load and unload luggage.
Adopts ” TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) ” and “GA-B platform.”
The new generation ” inline 3-cylinder 1.5L direct injection Dynamic Force Engine M15A type ” employs a new, compact THS II engine. It is combined with a ” Direct Shift-CVT “ with a launch gear .
The hybrid model also features an E-Four (4WD) model . A newly developed double wishbone rear suspension is used exclusively for 4WD. The gasoline 4WD model will be discontinued.
It is equipped with the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense , an advanced preventive safety technology .
The car comes standard with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch display audio , Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A DCM in-car communication device is also standard.
It features an external power supply function (optional for hybrid vehicles) that can supply up to approximately 5.5 days’ worth of electricity for an average household.
About Toyota Sienta specs
| Specifications | Sienta Hybrid |
Sienta gasoline |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,280mm | 4,280mm |
| Overall width | 1,695mm | 1,695mm |
| Overall height | 1,695mm (2WD) 1,715mm (4WD) |
1,695mm (2WD) 1,715mm (4WD) |
| Wheelbase |
2,750mm | 2,750mm |
| engine | Inline 3 1.5L + motor M15A-FXE type |
In-line 3-cylinder 1.5L engine M15A-FKS type |
| Maximum power | 67kW (91ps) / 5500rpm |
88kW (120ps) / 6600rpm |
| Maximum torque | 120Nm (12.2kgfm) / 3800-4800rpm |
145Nm (14.8kgfm) / 4,800-5,200rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
Front: 59kW (80ps) Rear: 2.2kW (3.0ps) |
– |
| Motor Max Torque |
Front: 141Nm (14.4kgm) Rear: 44Nm (4.5kgm) |
– |
| WLCT mode fuel economy |
28.2-28.8km/L (2WD) 25.3km/L (4WD) |
18.3km/L |
| Drive system | 2WD/4WD (E-Four) |
2WD |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people/7 people | 5 people/7 people |
| Minimum turning radius |
5.0m | 5.0m |
| Drive system | Electric continuously variable transmission |
Direct Shift- CVT |
For more details, please refer to this article.
4. Nissan Serena
Nissan will fully redesign the new Serena (C28 model) and release the gasoline version on December 22, 2022, with the e-POWER version scheduled for spring 2023.
The exterior and interior designs have been completely redesigned.
Adopts a new “Nissan emblem.”
It will adopt Renault-Nissan’s new platform, CMF (Common Module Family) .
It is equipped with the next-generation “e-POWER” and uses a ” 1.4L inline 3-cylinder gasoline engine .”
Equipped with a “12.3-inch full LCD digital meter” and “9-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen display NISSAN CONNECT.”
The car is equipped with the ProPilot driving assistance system . The top-of- the-line LUXION model will be equipped with the new ProPilot 2.0 driving assistance system .
It uses Renault-Nissan’s new platform, CMF (Common Module Family) . The exterior design and front and rear bumper designs have been changed. It features a large grille with LED daytime running lights mounted on top.
The interior features a new steering wheel, a 12.3-inch full LCD digital meter , and a large 9-inch or 12.3-inch latest infotainment system. Soft padding has been used on the top surface of the instrument panel to enhance the sense of luxury. The NissanConnect infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The center console features a small shifter knob and rotary selector for terrain settings, as well as an electric parking brake and hold function.
The dual back door, which allows luggage to be loaded and unloaded without opening the entire back door, has also been made easier to use. By reviewing the opening size, it can now be used in tighter parking spaces.
The hands-free automatic sliding door has been designed with an emphasis on ease of operation, including improved sensor sensitivity.
The engine is a 1.4L in-line 3-cylinder engine , and the second-generation “e-POWER” has been upgraded with a newly developed motor and inverter for improved power, smoothness, and quietness .
The new model is equipped with the “360° Safety Assist” system, which has more advanced functions than the previous model , and is made up of seven types of advanced driving assistance systems: “Intelligent Emergency Braking,” “Pedal Misapplication Prevention Assist,” “Adaptive High Beam Assist/High Beam Assist,” “Reverse Vehicle Detection Alert (RCTA),” “Intelligent Lane Departure Warning (LI/LDW),” “RCTA Reverse Vehicle Detection Alert,” and “Sign Detection Function.”
Nissan Serena specs
| Specifications | New Serena | New Serena e-POWER |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,690mm to 4,765mm | 4,690mm to 4,765mm |
| Overall width | 1,690mm to 1,715mm | 1,690mm to 1,715mm |
| Overall height | 1,870mm | 1,870mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,870mm | 2,870mm |
| engine | Inline 4-cylinder DOHC 2.0 L | Inline 3-cylinder DOHC 1.4 L + Motor type: EM57 |
| Maximum power | 110kW (150ps) / 6,000rpm |
72kW (98ps) / 5,600rpm |
| Maximum torque | 200Nm (20.4kgm) / 4,400rpm |
123Nm (12.5kgm) / 5,600rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
– | 120kW (163ps) / 4,400-5,000rpm |
| Motor Max Torque |
– | 315Nm (32.1kgm) / 2,400-4,000rpm |
| Drive system | 2WD/4WD | 2WD |
| Passenger capacity | 8 people | 7 to 8 people |
| WLCT mode fuel economy |
13.0km/L to 13.4km/L |
18.4km/L to 20.6km/L |
For more details, please refer to this article.
5. Honda Step WGN
Honda will be fully redesigning the Stepwgn, releasing it as the sixth generation in May 2022. The previous model went on sale on April 24, 2015. This will be the first full model change in seven years since its release . The design has been revamped with the grand concept of ” #WonderfulLife .” While the concept remains the same as the previous model, the body size has increased and all models are now number 3. Honda says, ” This is a new size that will change minivans. ” The overall length is 4,800mm to 4,830mm, the overall width is 1,750mm, the overall height is 1,840mm to 1,845mm, and the wheelbase is 2,890mm. The lineup will include the AIR and SPADA models.
It features a 10.25-inch instrument cluster. The center display uses an 11.4 – inch Honda CONNECT navigation system . It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As an original option, a 15.6-inch rear seat monitor can be digitally connected to the Gathers navigation system to enjoy high-definition images. Through the Honda CONNECT in-car communication module equipped with next-generation connected technology, the car offers the connected service Honda Total Care Premium, which allows you to enjoy a safer and more comfortable car life .
Honda Step Wagon specs
| Specifications | New Stepwagon Hybrid model |
New Step Wagon NA model |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,800mm to 4,830mm | 4,800mm to 4,830mm |
| Overall width | 1,750mm | 1,750mm |
| Overall height | 1,840mm to 1,845mm | 1,840mm to 1,845mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,890mm | 2,890mm |
| engine | Inline 4 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC + Motor “SPORT HYBRID i-MMD” |
1.5L straight 4 direct injection DOHC i-VTEC turbo |
| Maximum power | 107kW (145ps) / 6,200rpm |
110kW (150ps) / 5,500rpm |
| Maximum torque | 175Nm (17.8kgm) / 4,000rpm |
203Nm(20.7kgm)/ 1,600-5,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
135kW (184ps) / 5,000-6,000rpm |
– |
| Motor Max Torque |
315Nm (32.1kgm) / 0-2,000rpm |
– |
transmission |
Electric continuously variable transmission | CVT |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery | – |
| Drive system | 2WD (FF) | 2WD(FF)/4WD |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 19.5km/L to 20.0km/L |
13.1km/L to 13.9km/L |
For more details, please refer to this article.
summary
Drivers want to be careful and prevent accidents, but humans inevitably become distracted at times, so it’s good to have a car to help. Even if you’re careful, there’s still the possibility of hitting an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian, so collision safety features are necessary to protect yourself. Furthermore, minivans are often used to transport family and friends, so driving a vehicle with as many safety features as possible can help protect the lives of your family and friends. We hope this information will be helpful when making your purchase.
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ [2024] Top 35 Safe Cars Ranking, NASVA Highest Rating, Five-Star Award
→ [2024] Top 20 fuel-efficient Japanese cars
→ [2024] Top 20 Japanese cars with poor fuel economy
