The family defining minivan segment, introduced in the 1980s, but largely replaced by crossover utility vehicles over the past two decades, is showing fresh signs of growth. Very few models remain, but those still in production are seeing an unexpected resurgence in demand. Now, a segment once considered doomed, may have found a new lease on life thanks to customers who are carefully considering their options.
What is a Minivan?
The term minivan became a common household word in the 1980s. That is when the Chrysler Corporation introduced a pair of Plymouth and Dodge models based on the automaker’s K-Car platform. That compact platform defined the automaker for most of the decade, yielding numerous models across the Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth lines.
But it was the car-based platforms that defined the term. Instead of using truck platforms (common with large models of that era), Chrysler built minivans on its car frame. Thus, the driver and passengers could expect better steering and a smoother ride from these front-wheel-drive models powered by small, relatively efficient engines. Furthermore, minivans featured at least one sliding door, usually located behind the driver’s seat. Notably, this feature made it easier for families to access the second and third rows. That is something that the previously ubiquitous family hauler, the station wagon, lacked.
Minivans also offer ample interior space. Seating is for seven or eight, approximating the passenger carrying capacity of full-size station wagons, but without the back seat access drama.
Manufacturer Participation
Nearly every major manufacturer has participated in the segment, which reached peak sales of approximately 1.3 million units in 2000. Since then, sales have steadily dropped and automakers such as GM, Ford, and Nissan no longer field models. By 2022, net sales fell to about 230,000 units per year or just a fraction of its top sales year.
But the steady decline appears to be reversing. Indeed, in 2024, sales totaled 325,000 units, surging to 408,528 units in 2025. The five current players are led by the Chrysler Pacifica (and the basic trim Chrysler Voyager), the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and the Kia Carnival. Notwithstanding Kia calling the Carnival a “multi-purpose vehicle,” the Carnival is, in fact, a minivan.
Today’s Minivan
Customers are drawn to minivans for several reasons, including ease of access to the cabin, cargo capacity, and tech features. Today’s minivan typically shares its platform with similar-sized utility vehicles. This means that the Honda Odyssey and the midsize, three-row Honda Pilot, share the same platform. Therefore, the “mini” in the van name no longer applies. We see the term “midi-van” used occasionally by some and believe that is a more accurate representation of the market.
Most of today’s models offer all-wheel drive and some, like the hybrid-only Toyota Sienna, are electrified. There are V6 engines in the mix as well, with Honda, Kia, and Chrysler utilizing them. And, importantly for some, towing capacity reaches at least 3,500 pounds for most models. Although significantly less than the 5,000-pound capacity of midsize crossovers, families still have the capability to tow small campers, lightweight travel trailers, boats, personal watercraft, motorcycles, ATVs, and utility or cargo trailers without exceeding limits.
Looking Ahead
A well-equipped minivan will set you back around $50,000, paralleling the cost structure for midsize, three-row utility vehicles. But you can also find “starter” versions for about $40,000.
Will minivan sales continue to rise in 2026 and beyond? The potential is there, especially if customers take notice. While we doubt that new manufacturers will enter the segment, we could see Stellantis bringing back a Dodge model to complement Chrysler. Stellantis owns the Chrysler Group and is hungry for a win. By expanding minivan accessibility to more dealerships, the sales should follow.
References
Staff Writers (2025). 2025 U.S. minivan sales figures by model (with rankings). GoodCarBadCar.
Palmer, Z. (2025, May 7). Minivan sales in America are off to a shockingly good start in 2025. Road & Track.
Evans, B. T. (2026, January 6). Every minivan on the market posted big sales gains in 2025. CarBuzz.
Further Reading
In Praise of the Lowly Minivan
All About Minivans!
Minivans Fall Short on Rear-Seat Safety
On the Road With the 2025 Toyota Sienna
