Toyota Veloz

The Veloz is a modern family minivan built specifically to make life easy with kids. Three rows of seats, a folding third row, loads of cupholders and USB ports, and a low floor — fitting a child seat happens without the swearing. The petrol 1.5 with an automatic uses noticeably less than diesel rivals in the city. Toyota's suite of assists (adaptive cruise, lane keeping, autonomous braking) is a saviour on long hauls to Krabi. On comfort it's no longer the "cargo box" of old minivans but a proper family car you won't hesitate to seat a child in for eight hours. People rent it for transfers from Phuket airport (HKT), weddings and trips to Khao Sok National Park.

A petrol engine instead of a diesel is a deliberate plus here for family use: city fuel use is around 6–7 litres, the engine runs quietly, without the characteristic diesel rumble, and the cabin stays peaceful even when a child is asleep in the back. For a family that mostly tours the island and only occasionally ventures out on the long highways, the petrol Veloz works out cheaper to run and nicer on the ears than the bigger diesel minivans.

An important note on capacity: seven seats really does mean seven people, but with full holiday luggage the raised third row eats up almost all the space behind it. It's practical to travel five- or six-up with suitcases, or seven-up travelling light. The crossover-level clearance lets you nudge over hotel kerbs and packed dirt tracks without worry, though it's no off-roader. The typical renter is a family with one or two children who need a roomy, economical and safe car with Toyota's full assist package for calm, long transfers to Khao Sok or the piers to the islands.

Please note: child seats and accessories are not included in the rental price and are provided for an additional fee — please check availability when booking.