Questions about minivans once centered on how many doors or cupholders they had. Now, potential buyers want to know what the entertainment system is like. With the growth in the sport-utility field, many thought the minivan would die. While the market for these vehicles has stabilized, they're still a popular choice.
Families reap the most benefits, because minivans are great people carriers.
With all those doors, especially the side sliders, getting in and out is a breeze. Even better are models with power-operated side doors the driver can open and close with the touch of a switch. Compared with an SUV, minivans offer better gasoline mileage, and, in most cases, better ride and handling. Carmakers can't add many more doors, though DaimlerChrysler now has two power side doors and a power tailgate. Companies continue to add cupholders, and now entertainment systems are available on just about all models.