What do these minivans have in common? They're all models which have been recently axed (or will be soon) by their makers. Pundits of all sorts have seen these product cancellations and have started proclaiming that the days of the minivan are numbered, convinced that high gas prices and changing consumer preference will drive full-size SUVs and minivans into the dustbin of automotive history.
My take is that many of these commentators have probably never had to contend with transporting four adults, a dog, a few kids and a pile of luggage at the same time. Nothing can replace a full-size SUV when it comes to carrying six people and towing a large boat or trailer, and no other vehicle category can match the seating flexibility and interior room of the minivan.
Enter the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV)
Some automakers are banking on new crossover vehicles (often called crossover utility vehicles, or CUVs) as an alternative. I’m impressed by what I’ve seen and read about the Ford Edge and GMC Acadia (pictured), and I’m sure they’ll find success in the marketplace. I also don’t think these crossovers have even a slim chance of replacing the minivan as a category.
A Look Inside: Interior Space and Flexibility
Why? Let’s take a look at some facts. Here is a list of vehicles and their respective cargo volumes behind the first row seats, with the remaining seats either folded flat or removed (if possible). Note: All of this information was taken from the official press materials for the vehicles in question.
- 2007 Ford Expedition EL (full-size SUV) – 130.8 cubic feet
- 2007 GMC Acadia (crossover) – 117 cubic feet
- 2007 Ford Edge (crossover) – 69.6 cubic feet
- 2006/7 Chrysler Town & Country Limited (minivan) – 144.2 cubic feet
It may suffer from a frumpy persona, but facts don’t lie: the minivan is tops in interior cargo space and seating flexibility. Minivans also tend to get better gas mileage, have more standard safety features and better rollover resistance scores than full-size SUVs.
And Another Thing...
Here’s another point to remember: Many of the automakers heavily promoting crossover vehicles have tried (and failed) to succeed in the competitive minivan segment. Chrysler, Dodge, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Kia, and Hyundai have all introduced either significant mid-cycle model improvements or all-new minivans in recent years, and will likely continue doing so. The minivan offerings from Ford, Mercury, Mazda and Pontiac weren’t competitive with the class leaders, so their failure says more about lackluster product than it does about the segment itself.
I’m not knocking SUVs or crossovers at all: both classes of vehicles have their uses, and for the right consumer they could be exactly what they need. That said, I’m also sure the minivan will remain with us as a viable vehicle category for years to come.
Do you agree that the minivan is here to stay? Visit the comments section and tell me what you think!