Once a group goes past seven people, a car stops making sense. You need a van. In Chennai today, the two vans people ask about most are the Force Urbania and the Toyota Commuter. They solve the same problem in slightly different ways.
The short answer
- Choose the Urbania 16 seater for larger groups, long road trips and the best value per km.
- Choose the Toyota Commuter for smaller executive groups, airport delegations and when the brand matters to the guest.
How many people?
Our Urbania carries 16 passengers in individual reclining seats, with the driver separate. The Commuter is better for around ten to twelve with luggage. If you're 13 or more, the Urbania is the simpler choice. If you're eight to ten executives with suitcases, the Commuter is more comfortable.
What it costs
| Urbania 16 seater | Toyota Commuter | |
|---|---|---|
| 8 hrs / 80 km | ₹10,000 | ₹14,000 |
| Extra hour | ₹1,100 | ₹1,400 |
| Extra km | ₹39 | ₹140 |
| Outstation | ₹39/km, min 300 km/day + ₹1,000 bata | On request |
The difference on a long trip is large. For a 600-km round trip to Yelagiri and back, the Urbania works out far cheaper per person. The Commuter's premium shows up in short, high-profile jobs, such as a board delegation from the airport to a hotel.
Comfort on the road
Both are a big step up from older tempo travellers. The Urbania's individual seats and roof vents keep everyone cool. The Commuter feels more like a premium hotel shuttle, quiet and refined. On ghat roads to Ooty or Kodaikanal, both ride well with an experienced driver.
Our suggestion
Tell us your headcount, the luggage and where you're going. We'll suggest the van that fits, or a mix of vans and a coach if the group is large. Call +91 98414 30169.