Yes I was recommending Prius Alpha (Called Prius V in other markets). It is available in 5 and 7 seat versions, and I was recommending the 7 seat version. If you can find a good JDM please check it. Nowadays there are many sources to both import the vehicle and verify its auction sheet and condition at the time of import.
It has a solid platform, a solid 1800cc engine (2ZR-FXE), which is the hybrid version of engine used in 1800cc Corolla (2ZR-FE), it has a rock-solid e-CVT gearbox, and Toyota reliability. Very good drive, good serviceability (not as good as the regular Prius and Aqua though). It is a very good buy overall. I will admit that being a hybrid it is a somewhat complex vehicle. But Gen 3 and 4 Prius have many issues solved in earlier generations. Mileage will not be as good as a regular Prius but much better than that huge SUV with little 1.5 engine boosted with a turbo and gearing that might be biased towards getting that big car going instead of being efficient.
There are many for sale on Pakwheels, my advise is to avoid vehicles that have been used in Pakistan after import, and maintain them according to the manual.
https://www.pakwheels.com/used-cars/search/-/mk_toyota/md_prius-alpha/
You are spending a huge amount of money, avoid unproven Chinese. Please see this:
https://www.torquenews.com/1083/driver-1-million-driven-prius-miles-owner-300000-mile-toyota-prius-shares-high-mileage-secrets
One example, Gen 3 Prius with over 300,000 miles (over 480,000km) done. See if any DFSK car has done this many real world kms, not record attempts, not lab tests, real world miles.
As I said earlier, finding a good JDM is the hard part, but worth the effort in my opinion.
So overall my recommendation is:
- BR-V: First, visit a showroom and see if it fits your needs. If it does, you will have the peace of mind of 0 meter vehicle with warranty and dealership support. This makes it better than JDMs.
- Look at Hyundai Grand Starex. If it fits your needs, then again it has same pros and cons of buying brand new with warranty and dealership support.
- Now, look into JDMs. Look for most common vehicles since they have good serviceability and parts availability. I suggest Prius Alpha first. Then look at Toyota Voxy, Honda Freed, Toyota Sienta etc.
My recommendation is to avoid Chinese, don't risk 5 million on unproven cars with questionable quality.