Characteristics of All-Wheel Drive Minivans
This is a very niche segment, so you can expect most of the remaining all-wheel-drive minivans to share many of their characteristics. These include:
- Superior levels of passenger and cargo capacity
- Easy to drive thanks to their sturdy grip
- All-weather driving capabilities for mud and snow
- Equipped with loads of comfort and entertainment features
- Safe, making them ideal family vehicles
What to Consider When Buying Minivans with AWD
The US automotive market offers buyers a wide choice of models and body styles, so why should you pick one of the more obscure ones, like an all-wheel-drive van? These are some factors to consider.
Pros
- Attractive exterior styling
- Easy to drive with added grip
- Very comfortable ride quality
- Spacious and well-appointed cabins
- Standard 3-row seating configurations with 7- or 8-seater setups
- Long list of standard features, especially safety tech
Cons
- Subpar mpg figures
- Some low-quality interiors
- Can be difficult to reach third-row seats
- No off-roading capabilities
FAQs
What are the best minivans with AWD?
There are only a few minivans still for sale in the US, and of those, only two can be had with AWD. The Chrysler Pacifica is the clear winner as the more premium and comfortable option, though it can get pricey if you want the best it has to offer. However, the Toyota Sienna is still an excellent choice, boasting a very efficient powertrain and excellent value for money.
Do minivans with AWD get good mileage?
Generally speaking, no. Minivans are quite heavy, and adding AWD only compounds this issue. As such, their fuel economy takes a hit. The Chrysler Pacifica achieves just 17/25/23 mpg city/highway/combined. The Toyota Sienna makes use of a hybrid engine, and thanks to the electric assistance, it boasts a much better 35/36/35 mpg.
Are AWD minivans reliable?
Both the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica score very high reliability ratings, which is not surprising for vehicles specifically designed to endure the wear and tear of family life.
How much does a new all-wheel-drive minivan cost?
Though more expensive than a sedan or even several SUVs, minivans are quite affordable ways to get seating for up to eight passengers. The price of the Toyota Sienna starts at over $37,000, while the Chrysler Pacifica adds a couple grand to the bill in hybrid configuration.