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Published on February 13, 2008

This 11-seat van comes with a 2-litre diesel engine and is expected to cost between Bt1.68 million and 1.8 million.

The Expert was named International Van of the Year 2008 at the European Road Transport Show last October in Amsterdam, and is expected to appeal to Thai buyers who want a European marque at an affordable price.

"As opposed to the price of buying a top-end Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, the Expert provides a direct alternative for those who need more space but are not willing pay too high a premium. The main competitor in this segment is the Toyota Commuter van, which also comes as the Ventury. The European brand makes ownership more prestigious," says marketing manager Rattana Niyomwan.

The Expert however, comes with only a six-speed manual gearbox. Rattana says most Thai buyers of vans have chauffeurs and that very few drive themselves.

The only other European van in Thailand is the Volkswagen Caravelle, which is popular with Thai politicians. But the Caravelle will set you back anywhere from Bt2.99 million to Bt3.46 million, putting it in a completely different segment.

European Automobile expects to sell about 100 Experts and says the pricing is the most attractive aspect of the vehicle.

Vijo Varghese

The Nation

Ultimate in Luxury

The Luxury LS 460 is a wonderfully comfaortable car fitted with all mod cons, althoough not necessarily the most fun vehicle to drive.