Hi Guys,

Currently keeping an eye out for a possible replacement of our '05 Gen 3 Starex GRX CRDi. It's still working fine, not heavily used for the first 4 years, but it is getting a little old and I do not want to be around when something big breaks.

Anyhow, these are the specific models I'm looking at as its replacement, since they are probably about as flexible moving people and/or cargo as the Gen 3. I'm only considering sourcing from local dealers (i.e. HARI and Kia Phils only) though:

Kia Carnival LWB
1) EX - P1.695M
2) LX - P1.595M

Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi
1) VGT Gold - P1.818M
2) VGT GLS - P1.703M

Ultimately, it's really meant to be a showdown between the Carnival LWB and the Grand Starex CRDi, hence the thread's title. However, I indicated 2 models of each to emphasize another point, whether the additional P100K+ between top end and lower model would be warranted due to the additional features/accessories, so kindly include your comments as well.

Things I'm considering, but not in any particular order to allow for a more objective discussion of each point:
1) Flexibility/use of space - With the Gen 3's flexibility as the benchmark, which one makes the best use of space? Which one has the most space?
2) Mobility/Daily driver - The Gen 3 is used as a daily driver, which one's gonna fit the bill?
3) Fuel consumption
4) Ride comfort/stability - The Gen 3 has a soft ride which can be too bouncy at times. High speed curves are a no-no as the rear tires already lose traction. The Grandia has better cornering as it could go faster on the same curves.
5) Overall vehicle assessment

Thanks.