Minivans are the ultimate family haulers, offering ample seating space, abundant cargo space, and uncompromising passenger comfort. For years, these vehicles have been hauled for their family-friendly functionalities. In the present time, even SUVs that offer three-row seating are equivalent to minivans that offer similar practicality.
However, there are always some people who desire more than what they have been offered. Minivans and their lookalikes are no longer just road trip vehicles. People now use them as daily transportation. And to make this everyday driving experience better, many automakers now offer these big rides with enhanced traction and stability, which comes in handy, especially in challenging driving conditions.
How did they do that? The answer is clear: all wheel drive minivans. These innovative vehicles promise to deliver the best of both worlds. Whether you are enjoying cutting through snowy terrain, rainy roads, or simply a country road, AWD minivans are excellent choices for singles, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Today, we will explore the eleven best minivans with all wheel drive of the current year, the advantages of AWD, key purchasing factors, and whether an AWD minivan is right for you. Let us get started and explore the best eight-seaters featuring an all-wheel drivetrain system.
What Is an All Wheel Drive System?
All-wheel drive, or AWD, is a system in an automobile that sends power to all four wheels simultaneously, unlike front wheel drive (FWD) and rear wheel drive (RWD), which send power either to two front wheels or two rear wheels.
AWD is better than its counterparts because it offers enhanced traction and stability, particularly in challenging road conditions, and can even improve accelerations. However, an AWD system is not a substitute for tires that you might use in particular climatic conditions, like winter tires in severe winter conditions.
Lastly, there are three main types of All wheel drive systems: full-time, part-time, and on-demand, which differ based on their power distribution.
The Advantages Of All Wheel Drive Minivans
One of the most common questions that is surely going to pop into your head is: Why should I consider an AWD minivan? I totally agree with the curiosity. Buying vehicles, whether a simple sedan like the Nissan Versa or a large minivan, is an expensive event; thus, one needs to be clear on their whys.
An AWD minivan is much better than a FWD or RWD minivan because it comes with superior handling in adverse weather circumstances, better towing capacity, and limited yet better off-road capability.
You can ask around or search online to find out that the all-wheel-drive system is superior in every way. To help you understand better, I’ve listed some of the advantages that you can enjoy in all-wheel-drive minivans.
Enhanced Traction
The primary advantage you can enjoy from having a vehicle integrated with an all-wheel drive system is improved traction. As the power is distributed evenly among the four wheels, the AWD minivans can maintain better grip on uneven or slippery surfaces. This feature comes in extremely handy if you drive on rugged trails or live in regions with hard weather conditions.
Improved Stability
AWD helps enhance the stability of the vehicle by providing better control during acceleration. You can see the difference when you are driving in wet or icy conditions. As your family carriage is better at handling with its new AWD system, the risk of skidding or losing control is reduced significantly.
Versatility
A minivan becomes more versatile than ever to handle a variety of driving scenarios, all thanks to all-wheel drive. It does not matter whether you are taking your ride to run errands within the city or to the mountains for a weekend getaway; AWD gives you that long-needed confidence and capability to handle diverse driving conditions.
Resale Value
When it comes to selling, vehicles, whether a minivan or some luxury car with white interior featuring AWD, often have a higher resale value compared to their front-wheel-drive counterparts. This added value is an important consideration for anyone who is looking to invest in a reliable and durable vehicle.
Overall, whether you are buying your minivan or simply owning it via the best rental car services, we recommend you consider AWD options first.
Top 11 All Wheel Drive Minivans Available In 2024
The selection of AWD minivans is not as extensive as other vehicle categories. There are only a handful of actual minivans; thus, I have included some impressive three-row SUVs in the mix. It is simple because these rides offer the same amount of space and comfort as a minivan.
All the models listed below stand out because they offer excellent performance, comfort, and reliability. Plus, each of them has either a standard or optional AWD feature.
1. Honda Odyssey
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $38,240
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
- Horsepower: 280 hp
- MPG: 19 city / 28 highway
The Honda Odyssey is a versatile family hauler that boasts a cavernous cabin, thoughtful design, comfortable seats, a gentle ride, a potent engine, and plenty of standard features like stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, rear seat alert, tri-zone automatic climate control, and more. Lastly, to be able to access the maximum cargo capacity of this Japanese car brand, you need to remove the second-row seats.
2. Chrysler Pacifica
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $39,400
- Engine: 3.6 L V6
- Horsepower: 287 hp
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 28 highway
The Chrysler Pacifica is one of the best models in the highly competitive minivan segment. It comes with plenty of passenger and cargo space, smooth handling and ride quality, an impressive list of standard features, more interior and exterior color options, and unique features like fold-flat Stow ‘n Go seating. In addition, you now get an emergency vehicle alert system with the new Pacifica.
3. Toyota Sienna
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $37,685
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 189 hp
- MPG: Up to 36 city / 36 highway
The Toyota Sienna all-wheel drive variant is another excellent choice for people seeking a fun, family-friendly, comfortable ride. This minivan comes with impressive fuel efficiency, making it one of the best vehicles for cross-country road trips. It is also available in a hybrid powertrain, but it lacks power and refinement.
But overall, the Sienna is a dependable vehicle with plenty of tech and safety features to offer, such as blind spot monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, push-button start, satellite radio, and more.
4. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $40,970
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 186 hp
- MPG: Up to 36 city / 35 highway
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a suv that features three rows, making it no less than a minivan. This hybrid SUV can easily seat seven to eight passengers; however, the cargo room behind the third row is not as large as a minivan. But still, you get to enjoy a nice-looking interior, a hands-free power liftgate, a user-friendly infotainment system, and more.
5. Kia EV9
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $54,900
- Engine: Electric
- Horsepower: 201 to 379 hp
- Battery-only range: 230 to 304 miles
- Fastest charging: About 190 miles in 23 minutes (80% charged)
This one is on the pricey side, but it is worth every penny. If you want a ride that is spacious but also environment-friendly, the Kia EV9 is for you. This fully electric car comes with a generous list of standard features, lightning-fast charging, and a relatively low price in the segment.
In its AWD configuration, the Kia EV9 is impressive. Its acceleration is quick and smooth. In fact, it is one of the quickest three-row SUVs on the market.
6. Ford Expedition
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $54,660
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
- Horsepower: 380 to 440 hp
- MPG: Up to 17 city / 23 highway
The Ford Expedition is one of the best large SUVs that disguises well as a minivan. The AWD variant of this model from the car brand that starts with F is hard to ignore. It offers potent and fuel-efficient engine options, great off-roading and towing abilities, and a well-built interior.
The smooth ride quality will make all your trips, whether long or short, comfortable. The light and easy steering feel is ideal for leisure driving, which even your teenager can enjoy. This vehicle has a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, making it safe for you and your family.
7. Jeep Wagoneer
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $62,945
- Engine: 3.0 L 6-cylinder
- Horsepower: 420 hp
- MPG: Up to 17 city / 24 highway
The Jeep Wagoneer is one of the best large SUVs you can buy this year. This potent ride features nothing but quality and potential. You get a luxurious and spacious cabin, a large towing capacity, and powerful and fuel-efficient engines with a 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder engine that now comes standard.
The driving quality is nimble; however, handling this ride in tight spaces can be quite challenging. In addition, you get the largest cargo area in this vehicle, which is about 116.7 cubic feet behind the front row.
8. Chevrolet Suburban
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $59,200
- Engine: 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel, 5.3 L V8, 6.2 L V8
- Horsepower: 277 to 420 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 27 highway
The Chevrolet Suburban is a family hauling champion with top-of-class cargo and passenger room. It comes with a potent V8 and an impressive V6 diesel engine, making it a perfect partner for all kinds of drivers. For its size, it has an impressive ride and handling. And if you throw in intuitive technology and safety systems, you have a ride worth spending money on.
One of the best features of this ride are its standard bucket seats, which are not only comfortable but also highly supportive. So, if you are going on a long road trip, the Chevy Suburban is an excellent vehicle.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $40,035
- Engine: 3.6 L V6
- Horsepower: 293 hp
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 26 highway
If you want to experience the thrill of the Banks Turbo Jeep 4.0 System in your new all-drive minivan, then the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is where your search ends. This potent off-roader might not be as big and spacious as a minivan, but it is a compact version of those big rides and ideal for people who desire space but are not sure about handling a large vehicle on the road.
The all-new Grand Cherokee L is a luxurious, family-focused SUV that can easily seat six people. Its solid performance, both on and off the road, makes it worth your time and money.
It has received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, all thanks to its impressive driver assistance features like a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, and more.
10. Kia Telluride
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $36,190
- Engine: 3.8 L V6
- Horsepower: 291 hp
- MPG: Up to 20 city / 26 highway
Kia Telluried is one of the best three-row SUVs for the money. You can easily seat up to eight people in its upmarket cabin, which features Nappa leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats in the first two rows. This midsize vehicle offers the most cargo capacity in its class. There is a small hidden compartment under the rear cargo floor, offering additional space.
It is powered by a single 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine, channeling 291 hp and offering smooth ride quality. 12.3-inch touch screen integrated with Apple CarPlay, Android Atom, navigation, and five USB ports is standard.
11. Kia Carnival
Key Specifications
- MSRP: From $33,600
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
- Horsepower: 290 hp
- MPG: 19 city / 26 highway
Kia Carnival is a well-rounded, value-packed, and upscale minivan with lots to offer its buyers. This eight-seater ride is fun, flashy, and luxurious. It features well-weighted steering and good body control, offering a stable and confident driving experience. It is compatible with child safety seats across the three rows. There is plenty of space in here, but with the third-row seats in use, the cargo space gets limited.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Now that you know what the best minivans are and the rides similar to minivans available on the market, it is time we talk about some practicality. Not every minivan is the same. You cannot just pick one out at random, purchase it, and bring it home to your family. There are many factors at play. Thus, before you buy your new minivan, there are certain things to consider:
- Fuel Economy: Generally, AWD systems can reduce the fuel efficiency of a vehicle compared to FWD or RWD. Thus, consider the miles per gallon before you finalize your purchase.
- Cost: AWD models, including a reliable pickup truck, minivan, sedan, and SUV, often come with a higher market price than their FWD counterparts. So, consider if an AWD variant is worth spending for extra traction and control.
- Driving Necessity: All-wheel drive systems come in particularly handy in regions with extreme weather conditions like snow or rain. However, if you primarily live or drive in mild weather conditions, an AWD minivan might be an overkill.
Is an AWD Minivan Right for You?
Whether an all wheel drive minivan is right for you depends heavily on your particular needs and driving conditions. In order to decide whether buying such a large vehicle is a beneficial option for you, here are a few questions that you should be considering.
What kind of area do you live in?
If you live in an area with frequent snow or rain, then yes, an AWD ride can provide extra safety and confidence on the road.
Are you an outdoor lover?
If you are someone who enjoys outdoor activities that push you to take off-beaten paths, then an AWD can enhance your driving experience on dirt roads and trails.
Do you prioritize resale value and long-term investment?
If you are someone who views their vehicles not only as a mode of convenience but also as an investment asset, then AWD models are the best. AWD variants often retain their value better than front-wheel-drive versions.
Conclusion
All wheel drive minivans are a perfect blend of comfort, versatility, and capability. Whether you are a family seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle or an outdoor enthusiast for a big ride that can handle various terrains, minivans with all wheel drive are a great choice. With models like the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica leading the way, you can enjoy the enhanced driving experience and peace of mind that come with AWD.
Investing in an AWD vehicle ensures you are ready for all kinds of problems one can face on the road, making your journey safer and more enjoyable.
