The Appeal of the First-Generation Voxy

A balance of design and practicality, low-floor and large openings make "everyday easy".

The sleek look of the aerodynamic bumper and vertical headlights, along with the dark interiors, appealed to young families and were factors contributing to the first-generation's hit. The 2.0L inline-4 (1AZ series) × 4AT is user-friendly, providing a balance between torque in city driving and a smooth ride. The ease of boarding is aided by the low floor and wide-opening sliding doors; the quick-expanding cargo area is possible with the third row of flip-up storage. The ample storage, good visibility from the driver’s seat, and easy maneuverability are directly connected to its usability in urban areas. With seating for 7/8 people and flattening features, as well as optional powered sliding doors, it's a package capable of handling all family events from weekdays to weekends. The Voxy brand value was established by offering more sporty options than the Noah, thus providing more "joy of choice".

Drawbacks of the First-generation Voxy

Early direct injection care and 4AT cruising rotation, advanced safety features are not maintained.

The direct injection D-4 (1AZ-FSE) at the time tended to get dirty in the intake and EGR if frequently used for short drives, making regular cleaning and the use of high-quality oil crucial. The 4AT has a slightly high rotation at highway cruising, which can result in quieter and more fuel-efficient performance compared to later generations. Safety equipment is up to standard for the time, but don't expect features like lateral skid prevention or collision damage reduction brakes. When considering a used car, it's important to check the idling quality, AT shift smoothness, fitting of the sliding door, underbody rust prevention, and A/C capabilities. Because of its "sporty face", scratches on the lower edge of the aerodynamics and marks from hits on the underbody should also be inspected.

The rival of the first-generation Voxy

Nissan Serena (C24) / Honda Stepwgn (2nd generation)

The contemporary Serena C24 boasts comprehensive equipment and spacious interiors, while the second-generation Stepwagon is known for its agile drive. On the other hand, the Voxy excels in everyday use, with easy handling due to its 5-number width, low floor sliding, and a highly functional storage group. The balance of style and practicality, along with its wide distribution, makes it easy to find quality units, and there is also abundant maintenance information. For those who are primarily driving in urban areas for short to medium distances, the Voxy's quiet daily performance stands out.

Specs of the first-generation Voxy

Dimensions: Overall length approximately 4,560-4,700mm × overall width 1,695mm × overall height approximately 1,850-1,875mm Engine: 2.0L I4 1AZ-FSE (Direct Injection D-4) Transmission: 4AT Drive system: FF, 4WD Seating capacity: 7/8 people Estimated fuel economy: Approximately 10-13km/L (10・15 mode)

The Charm of the Second Generation Voxy

2.0L 3ZR-FAE × CVT, a staple refined for its low floor and spaciousness.

With the new generation 2.0L (equipped with Valvematic) and CVT combination, the rise in revolution from stop-and-start to cruising is gentle. Both quietness and fuel efficiency will noticeably improve. The strengthened platform results in improved ride comfort and straight-line performance. The second row's long slide provides ample foot room for child seats or large passengers. Everyday equipment such as electric sliding, smart key, back monitor is well stocked, and the synergy of the black interior and aero effects refreshes the "minivan = plain" image. Also appealing is the ability to choose a sporty appearance compared to Noah, reaching a perfect level of completion for balancing family and hobbies.

Shortcomings of the second-generation Voxy

CVT maintenance status and significant equipment difference due to the "transitional period" of safety gear.

The CVT is generally smooth, but for vehicles with high mileage, confirming the fluid management and heat load history increases peace of mind. Equipment varies by model and year, with features like anti-skid, side/curtain airbags, and cruise control. When buying used, always specify which safety and comfort features you want. Points of inspection include suspension bushings, wear on the sliding door rails, door lock operation, and the health of the electrical system (alternator, battery, A/C). Satisfaction increases when prioritizing stability through a FF+CVT for predominantly city driving, or 4WD and using snow tires if often driving in high-altitude or snowy conditions.

A competitor to the second-generation Voxy

Nissan Serena (C25/C26 early phase) / Honda Stepwgn (RG series)

The Serena impresses with its comfortable interior features and idling stop mechanism, while the Stepwagon attracts with its efficient loading capacity and drive performance thanks to the low-platform design. The Voxy garners support with its quiet operation, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and the option of a sporty exterior. The reassurance of a 5-number plate width comes into play in multi-storey car parks and narrow streets in urban areas.

Specifications of the second-generation Voxy

Size: Total length approximately 4,595–4,620mm x Total width 1,695mm x Total height approximately 1,820–1,870mm Engine: 2.0L 3ZR-FAE Inline-4 (Variable Valve) Transmission: CVT (Super CVT-i) Drive system: FF, 4WD Seating capacity: 7/8 people Fuel efficiency: approximately 12–15km/L (10-15 mode/JC08 transition period)

The Appeal of the Third Generation Voxy

1.8L Hybrid x e-CVT setting, remarkable fuel efficiency and quietness

The third generation Voxy was incredibly popular in Japan due to its balanced performance and sporty style. It frequently surpassed the Noah in sales, particularly with the special edition model called "Kirameki" which led the sales. Apart from the 2.0L gasoline (3ZR-FAExCVT), a 1.8L hybrid model (2ZR-FXExe-CVT) was introduced. The electric assist is effective in start-and-stop city driving, improving smooth acceleration, quietness, and fuel economy. Body rigidity and sound insulation materials have been revisited, and the evolution of seat design has reduced fatigue during long-distance trips. Advanced safety features have been expanded mid-generation, offering collision damage mitigation and lane-related features (depending on the year of manufacture). The improvement of dashboard storage and accessibility, power sources, and the operation of the third-row seating enhances its utility. It is the most competent generation for being "family transportation."

Drawbacks of the Third-Generation Voxy

Hybrid car weight and price, lateral restrictions of pop-up storage

While hybrids boast the advantages of quiet operation and fuel economy, an increase in vehicle weight and price is inevitable. In situations with multiple passengers, full load, and continuous uphill driving, the engine rotation may increase. Be mindful of the third row's flick-up storage sticking out to the sides; it may interfere with loading large items. When considering used models, there are significant specification differences in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) depending on the model year, so it's crucial to identify the generation of the equipment. However, the ADAS of this generation of Noah/Voxy used an infrared laser, not a millimeter-wave radar, and did not adopt ACC, making it inferior compared to contemporaries like Serena and Step Wagon. For hybrids, verifying the maintenance history of auxiliary batteries, cooling lines, and brake systems can provide peace of mind.

Rival of the third generation Voxy

Nissan Serena (C27 early model) / Honda Stepwgn (RP1/3)

The Serena stands out with its advanced driving assistance and interior utility, while the Step Wagon offers low-floor mobility and nimble performance (with a 1.5L turbo in its later models). The Voxy scores high for its mix of compact "5-number size" maneuverability, hybrid quietness and economy, plus sporty looks, making it a popular choice in urban areas for its practicality and predictable maintenance costs.

Specifications of the third-generation Voxy

Size: Approximate length 4,695mm x width 1,695mm x height 1,825–1,870mm Engine: Gasoline: 2.0L Inline-4 3ZR-FAE x CVT Hybrid: 1.8L 2ZR-FXE x e-CVT (Motor Assisted) Drive System: FF, 4WD (mainly for gasoline) Seating Capacity: 7/8 persons Reference fuel efficiency: Gasoline: Approximately 14–16km/L (JC08 mode) Hybrid: Approximately 23–24km/L (JC08 mode)