NEED to carry seven or eight people without them feeling like sardines? The 2016 Noah could be the solution, as it fills a niche for customers wanting more space than the average compact sedan, but not the complexities that come with the ownership of a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

From the outside there’s no disguising the Noah’s purpose. It’s a box, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring; and the large black grill and chrome accents topped off by its own N-badge instead of the expected Toyota corporate logo, go a long way to add character.

However, interest in the Noah isn’t going to be most likely based on its exterior, but what is on the inside. Where for many vehicles space is limited, in the Noah space is an added bonus. Drop into the comfortable driver’s seat with its swivel arm rests and motoring takes on a different view. It may be bus-like, but the seating position isn’t any higher than the average SUV.

The large cabin is bright, not only because of the cream-coloured fabric trim, but the windows everywhere. Even the thick A-pillars are split as not to create any blind spots around the vehicle. Despite the generous interior space, nothing feels out of reach. All controls are well within reach, from the touch screen stereo to cabin climate operations for both front and rear.

The second row fares well with its own individual vents and A/C controls. Passengers can manually engage the privacy screens from slots in their doors. For those opting for eight seats, the passenger side rear door can be opened electronically from the key fob to reveal a moveable bench seat with a 60/40 split, allowing access to the third row. It might seem counterproductive to upgrade to one seat less, but that’s because the seven-seater Noah gets a pair second row captain’s chairs, while both doors receive electronic opening. As expected, there are cubby spaces everywhere and the ability to customise the interior space to whatever travel arrangements are necessary.

On the road, the Noah is refined as the average sedan; its weight and size never being felt. The 151bhp 2-litre engine coupled with the seven-speed CVT transmission pulls the vehicle willingly as the sharp steering makes turning response car-like. Wind noise is barely a factor and the ride, while firm, isn’t uncomfortable. Standard stability control and other safety systems also aid in making the Noah a pleasant drive.Also standard is Toyota’s ECO package, allowing drivers to either automatically be in fuel-saving mode or highlight when the vehicle is being driven as such.

The start/stop function is intelligent and unobtrusive, all helping it maximise the 55-litre tank.