best people carrier

Chasing the best people carrier for Australia’s school runs and surf runs? The Kia Carnival is the current crowd-pleaser: vast cabin, sensible boot with all three rows up, and a ride that won’t shake grandma’s scones.

Hyundai Staria brings spaceship looks and heaps of room; Toyota Granvia is van-based comfort for those who value durability over dazzle; VW Multivan is plush but pricier.

If you’d rather an SUV, seven-seaters like Toyota Kluger or Mazda CX‑9/CX‑90 are fine for occasional third-row use, but their cargo space takes a holiday when all seats are up.

Work out how often you’ll use row three, whether sliding doors are a must, and test the boot with an actual pram—then check Tradingpost for deals that don’t require a second mortgage.