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In terms of sales "People Movers" is one of our smaller categories, but buyers have a wide range of vehicles to choose from with eight different manufacturers represented.
Practicality, space and versatility are the driving forces in this class, as larger families look to accommodate six, seven or even eight people. Each manufacturer has taken a slightly different approach and all the contenders have a number of appealing attributes which will suit varying needs.
The variety of seat configurations and folding methods, for example, is almost endless. Of our three finalists, the Toyota Tarago scored maximum points for space but value for money suffers with a higher purchase price and lower level of standard equipment, as well as more expensive operating and repair costs.
On-the-road, its dynamics were also not quite as sharp or car-like as the other two shortlisted cars, Honda's Odyssey and the Mitsubishi Nimbus. Odyssey continues to be an appealing package with excellent build quality and a high level of standard features. A full load just takes a slight edge off the otherwise good performance of Honda's 2.3 litre four cylinder engine. The recently released 3.0 litre, six cylinder version provides extra pulling power but there are significant trade-offs in cost and seating capacity. Consistently rating above average, Mitsubishi's Nimbus narrowly edges out the Odyssey to be our winner in this class.
As well as scoring highly in the value for money criteria - the Nimbus costs thousands of dollars less than Tarago and Odyssey -- it offers practical accommodation and above average safety. Strong low speed torque from the 2.4 litre four cylinder engine and appropriate gearing delivers a good blend of performance and fuel economy, while car-like road manners make it very easy to drive.

Previous Results
2007 - Honda Odyssey Luxury
2006 - Honda Odyssey Luxury
2005 - Honda Odyssey Luxury
2004 - Honda Odyssey Luxury
2003 - Toyota Avensis Verso GLX
2002 - Toyota Avensis Verso GLX
2001 - Mitsubishi Nimbus
2000 - Mitsubishi Nimbus
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