Top 10 Minivan Alternatives

Minivans can’t shake their frumpy image. Sales have declined nearly 32 percent over the past five years, with an especially precipitous drop (22 percent) through Sept. compared to the same period last year, according to CNW Marketing Research.

Ford and General Motors have abandoned the minivan altogether. Like most manufacturers — even the ones that still sell minivans — they’re focusing instead on a fast-growing new segment called crossover utility vehicles, which blend elements from cars, SUVs, and minivans.

Although there’s still nothing as practical for hauling people and cargo as a minivan, with some compromises, crossovers and traditional SUVs can be attractive alternatives.

Click through for the list of Top 10 Minivan Alternatives...
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S4cabriofoxone - 11/6/2007 10:08:40 PM

+2 Boost

I think the only real reason why is stated in the article; GM and Ford dumped their vans. But the Chryslers, Hondas and Toyotas sell exceptionally well.

Lavic - 11/7/2007 9:29:32 AM

+2 Boost

A lexus Lx570 as a minivan alternative???

Lexus marketing people must want to hang those that brought the idea the an LX570 could be an alternative to minivan!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH

r_driver04 - 11/7/2007 1:19:07 PM

+3 Boost

Kia makes a mean minivan too. Chrysler has carved out a nice market for themselves when it comes to vans. They're cheap and half way decent vehicles for those wanting a minivan. But with Kia in the game they'll have a heck of a fight on the price front. The Sienna and Odyssey are virtually flawless but their price reflects it.

Shredmo - 11/7/2007 1:44:49 PM

+5 Boost

So, basically someone is trying to sell me on an SUV as a replacement to a minivan. How 'bout a relevant article, the top 10 replacement vehciles for a SUV/CUV? Personally, I would rather have any of the minivans mentiond (in the article and in the comments)over any of the SUVs mentioned.

Overall order of coolness:
Sports/sporty cars
Sedans/saloons
Wagons/estates (my preference)
Minivans
Trucks/p/u's and similar
SUV/CUV
RV

no1listensanyway - 11/7/2007 2:47:44 PM

+2 Boost

The GM Trio is the perfect alternative: Acadia, Outlook and Enclave

PlanB - 11/7/2007 5:27:57 PM

+1 Boost

Who the hell makes these lists? Only two or three of those on there can be called a "true" minivan alternative.

t_bone - 11/8/2007 1:38:36 AM

+2 Boost

This article reads like it is from 2002 or something. What we need is articles that throw a bucket of cold water on the whole "I gotta have AWD for the safety of my family in San Diego" craze.

I'd like an Odyssey Si, myself. (Even better, something in between the Fit and Odyssey in size)

M35MT - 11/8/2007 8:59:32 AM

+1 Boost

What's flat out stupid about this article is that it has the LR3 on the list...but says that this is a list of crossovers...ok, the LR3 (and even the LX570) are a couple of the few REAL SUVs still in existence...NO ONE SHOULD BUY THEM AS MINIVAN ALTERNATIVES. They're suppose to go off road not to soccer practice!!