Characteristics of Hybrid Minivans
There are only a couple of hybrid models in this highly niche segment of the market. The qualities that define them, therefore, are quite specific:
- Power: Minivans are not small, so a certain amount of oomph is needed to get them moving. But these are not performance vehicles, so quick acceleration and high speeds are not on the cards. On the plus side, they generally come with tools to make driving easier, such as power steering and AWD, which help to make such a large and heavy vehicle feel more manageable around town. Hybrid power helps to ensure enough torque and whether it’s a hybrid inline-four or plug-in hybrid V6, these minivans can comfortably carry a load of passengers, and even tow a trailer.
- Practicality: Space is extremely important in minivans, as their primary purpose is to transport people and cargo, usually in large quantities. Many come in 8- or 7-seater configurations while still leaving room for more than 30 cubic feet in the trunk. Power-sliding doors and seats are also common, making accessing the cabin and the back rows easier.
- Comfort: Cramming a lot of people and their luggage into a vehicle should leave little room for comfort, but minivans are an exception to the rule. Keeping passengers happy over long trips is essential, so well-cushioned seats and a decent selection of comfort features are all included. As since safety is key is peace of mind, a fair number of advanced driver-assistance features are standard, too.
- Price: Though not the cheapest of vehicles, minivans are still an affordable means of family transportation. They offer good value for money, and the plug-in hybrid minivan delivers excellent mpg figures to help keep costs low.
What to Consider When Buying a Plug-in Hybrid Minivan
A new hybrid minivan may not be right for everyone, but there are many families that could benefit from taking the leap and trying a different type of vehicle than the more common SUV. This is due to a number of advantages that minivans bring to the table, but there are naturally a few disadvantages that need to be considered, too:
Pros
- Exceptionally spacious
- Very comfortable interior
- Very high safety ratings
- Many quality-of-life features
- Improved fuel economy
- Good towing capacity
Cons
- More expensive than a regular model
- Not as stylish as more popular vehicles
- Can be unwieldy to drive
FAQs
What is the best hybrid minivan?
There are only two models that fall into this niche category, and while they are both quite good options, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid tick more boxes than the Toyota Sienna.
What’s the best plug-in hybrid minivan?
There is currently only one PHEV minivan on the market, and that is the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. It offers a useful 32 miles of electric range and 82 MPGe combined.
Will there be new hybrid minivans in the future?
It seems unlikely that any of the current minivan makers will want to incorporate hybrid technology into their lineups. Rather, we will probably see the rise of the EV minivan, as we have seen this new propulsion system disseminate into the rest of the market.