hello, (im noob in car but few google search this what i found)

Livina use MR18DE / HR16DE Engine all-aluminium alloy 4-cylinder engine delivers superior performance with reduce noise, vibration and harshness. the MR18DE use a CVTC(Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control) kinda same as what use on Sylphy(new 2014 edition) Meanwhile Nissan Sylphy 1.8L MRA8DE engine both this engine design to be Fuel efficient 15KM/Liter oh CVT kinda similiar(for Livina 1.8 and Sylphy 1.8)

Old Sylphy gear box seem to have issues on sound noise when certain rpm.. but it seem to be easy fix if inform service center (nissan) free fix if under warranty period.. Meanwhile new Version Sylphy this no longer issues(touchwood is what my Sale adviser inform me, YES i book one should receive end this week) AND a lot more owner of Livina.. maybe people with family prefer a MPV rather than Sedan ??hmm

Source:
http://z10.invisionfree.com/SylphyForumMal...p?showtopic=362
http://www.nissan.com.my/

i do not test drive other brand u mention, but i test drive Nissan Serena(hybrid) wow smooth and Very comfy/spacious while driving and mother(she like sun shade) also agree.. and come with all preventive crash (abs,ebd and VEHICLE DYNAMIC CONTROL (VDC) & TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (TCS) but just got 2 front airbags...