The minivan has been displaced in popularity by three-row SUVs and crossovers, but they haven’t quite disappeared. Recent automotive trends even indicate they may be making a comeback. In 2023, many minivans experienced large sales increases compared to 2022, and the market leader, the Chrysler Pacifica, sold more than 120,000 units.
There are fewer new minivan models on the market now than there used to be, but consumers can still find great options to meet their family’s needs. Get tips for finding the right minivan and an overview of the most popular models for 2024.
The basic concept of a minivan hasn’t changed much since the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in the early 1980s. They are primarily designed to transport large groups of people comfortably, while also easily converted to transport cargo. But designs have evolved over the years. Here’s what features car shoppers can expect in newer minivan models:
Most car, truck, and SUV categories have size variations for different market segments, such as compact, mid-size, and full-size. However, this is not the case with minivans, which generally fit into a single, general-size class.
In the past, gasoline engines were the only engine type option for most minivans in the United States, largely due to the long-running unpopularity of diesel options.
Today, customers looking to buy a brand-new minivan have multiple powertrain options: traditional gasoline minivans, hybrid models, and electric vehicles. Below are the differences between each category and examples of popular models to consider:
Most new minivans on the market today are still offered with traditional gasoline-powered combustion engines. Gasoline minivans have the lowest sticker prices, making them the go-to option for customers with a limited budget.
However, their main drawback is fuel economy; minivans usually have miles per gallon (MPG) ratings in the low 20s, which can increase gasoline expenses in the long run.
One of the most popular alternatives to gas-powered minivans is the hybrid. These vehicles combine a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel economy.
Technologies such as regenerative braking and electric motor assistance help reduce the vehicle’s reliance on gasoline. Some models, such as the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). These vehicles can run on the electric motor alone for a limited distance before switching to the gas engine.
In 2022, Volkswagen introduced the ID. Buzz to the European market, an all-electric large minivan with retro styling inspired by the classic Volkswagen Type 2 microbus. This model entered the United States market in mid-June 2024 for the 2025 model year, making it the first EV minivan available to American customers.
Families looking for a new minivan can explore several options that offer affordability and high consumer satisfaction scores. Below are the top three minivan models, based on their JD Power Consumer Ratings and the measured satisfaction of confirmed vehicle owners.
The 2024 Kia Carnival is one of the most popular minivans of 2024. Besides being one of the most affordable, it received a JD Power Consumer Rating of 80, the highest in the minivan category for 2024.
Owners of the Kia Carnival praised the infotainment system’s screens and displays and the onboard navigation system, but found the fuel economy lacking. All trim levels feature a 290-horsepower V6 engine and EPA fuel economy ratings of 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
Pricing: Most Kia Carnival owners pay between $30,294 and $52,294, depending on the trim level and selected options.
The fifth-generation Honda Odyssey is entering its 7th year on the United States market, with the 2024 model year being the last to offer the base EX trim. This model obtained a JD Power Consumer Rating of 78, sharing a second-place ranking with the 2024 Toyota Sienna.
In addition to being one of the few brand-new minivans to offer eight seats instead of seven, Odyssey owners appreciate its roomy cargo capacity and ease of getting in and out. However, fuel economy is one of the most common complaints, with ratings of 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG highway.
Pricing: Customers paid between $34,368 and $52,371 for the 2024 Odyssey. With the discontinuation of the base EX trim from 2025, 2024 will likely be the last model year with an Odyssey under $40,000 MSRP.
The 2024 Toyota Sienna is exclusively available with a hybrid powertrain. While this makes it the most fuel-efficient model in the 2024 JD Power minivan leaderboards, it is also among the priciest; the MSRP for the base LE FWD trim is $37,685.
Like the Odyssey, it received a JD Power Consumer Rating of 78. In addition to its excellent fuel economy (35-36 combined MPG), Sienna owners appreciate its safety technologies and the availability of all-wheel-drive trims, which offer better handling in adverse conditions.
The most commonly reported problems are related to the engine, with owners considering the 245-hp four-cylinder to be underpowered for the platform.
Pricing: On average, Sienna owners pay between $35,553 and $57,640.
The minivan continues to offer seating, comfort, and practicality that are unmatched by other vehicle classes. JD Power provides vehicle owners and families a free, fast, and convenient way to get detailed specifications, compare features, and find the right minivan for their needs.
Corentin’s passion for the automotive world started when he was just seven years old, during a life-changing visit to an auto museum. Now a seasoned writer, Corentin channels that early fascination into every piece he writes, whether he’s exploring the latest car trends or automotive history. But his expertise doesn't end there—he also brings his insights to topics like home improvement, the boating and yachting industry, personal finance tips, and cutting-edge tech.
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