To buy a Voxy or Noah?

The Toyota Voxy (left) and the Toyota Noah second generation (right). The two cars have many similar features including engines. The differences are in designs and name but even the pricing is the same.

The Toyota Noah is an eight-seater Multi-Purpose Van (MPV) with two rear sliding doors and was sold only in Asia till we got interested. The first generation was made in the ‘90s while the second one was introduced in 2001 and became very popular in Japan. A five-seater version without the third seat row is available. Its predecessor was the Toyota Liteace Noah. The Noah has a twin version named Toyota Voxy. However, Toyota Voxy has lower ground clearance than the Toyota Noah, so it sometimes interferes with speed humps.

The second generation Noah was launched in 2001, and is positioned below the Estima and Alphard, and above the Sienta. Consequently, its main competitors are the Honda StepWGN and the Nissan Serena. But design-wise, these two are not quite potential rivals especially the Honda, it looks odd.

The second generation model of Noah compact multipurpose vehicle was much more advanced and well featured compared to the first generation Noah. The second generation car pays more focus to the comfort and luxury of the interiors and great styling from exterior.

The current design of the Noah was released in 2007. This version has a 2.0 L gasoline direct injection engine, CVT and standard front wheel drive or 4WD. In Uganda, we have both the first generation and the bigger better looking second generation.

The latest model was upgraded and was equipped with advanced technology as compared to its first generation. The interiors were changed to a great extent to give comfort and ease while driving or while travelling as passenger. Toyota Noah MPV gives a feeling of a great family car due to its great safety features.

The MPV interiors are great and spacious. The passengers feel airy and comfortable in the car. The Valvematic technology created in Toyota Noah Compact adjusts and controls the air flow taken in continuously. It controls the valve shift and valve opening and closing. This improves the performance of the car and in turn also increases the fuel efficiency of the car.

The Valvematic technology improves the fuel efficiency to around five to 10 per cent. The new, second-generation models extend the advanced functioning of the first generation, including an interior that pays particular attention to providing comfort, ease of use and a relaxed driving environment.

At the same time, the Voxy has stylishness at its heart while the Noah gives off a feeling of familiarity. The second generation Toyota Noah has a smoother ride and better handling than the last generation Noah and shares a lot with the Voxy, including pricing.

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Prices
At IBS Motors the First generation Noah is at Shs15m, Shs16.5m, and Shs17m at Auto Deals Invest, it goes for Shs18m, Mukusu Motors Shs13m, Balikenda Investments at Shs12.5m, Rehman Shs16m and 23m, Auto Deals, Shs17m and Soana at Shs14m.

The second generation Noah is as expected more expensive coming in at Shs31m at Tal Autos and at Shs38m at Mian Group. Voxy prices are the same as second generation Noah.

UTILITIES
• The aerodynamic versions of the two vehicles employ aerodynamic components such as a large bumper and rear spoiler, overhanging wheel flares, and 16-inch wheels to create the image of a low centre of gravity and a sporty and wide feel.

• Vehicles with two rows of seats (Voxy Trans-X and Noah YY) provide plenty of cargo space. The space can be arranged to suit almost any need through various combinations of the three deck boards.