Minivans vs. SUVs: How Minivans Are Finding Their Way Back Into Driveways

Minivan sales are on the rise, but are they the better choice over SUVs? There are a few considerations that could help you decide between the two.

Elliot Rieth | 

Feb 26, 2024 | 4 min read

Updated on May 20, 2026

Toyota

Minivans began making a comeback with sales increasing 20% in 2025, according to a recent report from Automotive News. The reason? Redesigns and enhanced features that appeal to families seeking utility and space for their growing needs. However, even with a current minivan sales boost, SUVs remain a steady favorite among car buyers.

There are many factors to consider when choosing between a minivan and an SUV. While minivans offer more interior space and lower floors for easy entry, SUVs provide better towing and higher ground clearance. 

So which one is right for you? Read on.

• Ergonomics and practicality: What to know
• Performance and capability
• The ‘cool’ factor and visibility
• What to consider when deciding between an SUV and a minivan
• SUV or minivan: Which one is right for you?
  

Chrysler

Ergonomics and Practicality: What to Know

When it comes to utility, the minivan brings ergonomic designs, ample interior space, and family-friendly height. While modern SUVs offer some of the same benefits, the minivan is known for its practical design.

They typically include features such as:

• Sliding doors: These doors slide open at the push of a button, making parking lot door dings a thing of the past.
• Low floors: From dogs to toddlers to grandparents, a low floor allows passengers and their pets to get in and out easily. 
• Seating flexibility: Minivans offer a more comfortable third row compared to compact and midsize SUVs. Some minivan models like the Chrysler Pacifica also feature Stow n' Go seating systems that let you maximize space by storing even the second-row seats in the floor.  

Minivans also tend to include extra family-friendly features that may enhance your overall experience. For example, the Toyota Sienna features a built-in vacuum on some trims, making it easier to clean in-car spills.

Toyota

Performance and Capability

For drivers who want adventure and performance, the SUV is the clear winner. But they may have to give up some comforts of the minivan in the process.

Unlike minivans, SUVs are often built for capabilities such as:

• Towing: Although some minivans can tow, they can't match the towing capacity of SUVs like the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, which can handle up to 10,000 pounds.
• High ground clearance: SUVs sit higher off the ground to avoid bottoming out on obstacles such as potholes and snow. With an SUV, you can more easily handle situations like camping, off-roading, or driving on back roads.
• 4WD or AWD: SUVs typically offer four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) options for slippery conditions. Minivans, on the other hand, typically come with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) drivetrains, and only a few offer AWD like the 2027 Chrysler Pacifica.

Kia

The ‘Cool’ Factor and Visibility

Visual appeal is, of course, subjective, but the "mom van" stereotype has influenced many drivers to opt for SUVs. However, designs like the Kia Carnival are blurring the lines between the classic minivan and the SUV category. The Carnival looks like an SUV with the practicalities of a minivan, including sliding doors. Some 2026 Kia Carnival MPV trim packages offer reclining second row seats with leg extensions. 

Still, SUVs tend to be more appealing for their height, which improves visibility.Thanks to their higher ground clearance, SUVs give drivers a better view of the road ahead, and more confidence in tough situations. However, minivans with their expansive side windows may have fewer blind spots than SUVs.

What to Consider When Deciding Between an SUV and a Minivan

Your own personal preferences and priorities will ultimately help you decide whether an SUV or a minivan is right for you. Here are a few common considerations that may be of importance:

• Price
• Passenger space
• Door configuration
• Cargo space and storage
• Fuel efficiency
• Hybrid and non-hybrid options
• Safety features 
• Safety ratings (minivans are not IIHS crash-tested)
• Resale value
• Insurance costs

SUV or Minivan: Which One Is Right for You?

By now, you probably have an idea of which vehicle may be right for you based on your lifestyle and how you plan to use your vehicle. But if you're still on the fence, consider these scenarios:

• Choose a minivan if you have three or more children, value ease of entry, and want the most interior space.
• Choose an SUV if you need to haul heavy loads, enjoy weekend off-roading, camping, or water sports, or simply prefer a more rugged aesthetic and higher driving position.

Both vehicle options have their benefits. Deciding on the one that's right for you depends on which checks the most boxes.

Elliot Rieth

Born and raised in Michigan — the center of the American automotive industry — Elliot's fate of becoming a writer in the automotive space was seemingly predetermined. In addition to covering cars and personal finance for Capital One, he's worked directly with dealers and OEMs to create digital content meant to educate consumers. He's also passionate about music and has written for outlets like In Review Online. When he isn't writing about the latest financial, automotive, and insurance trends, he can be found enjoying a new book or record alongside his two greyhounds.