Minivans are making a comeback in the United States, while large SUVs could lose ground in the market

For a few years now, SUVs have been the vehicles preferred by buyers. This trend has not changed, but it is true that changes are coming to the car market and there could be a shift in trend in certain markets. In the United States, new minivan models are arriving and winning over new buyers.

During the 1980s and early 1990s they were quite common, until SUVs arrived and drivers opted for vehicles that offered a more attractive and dynamic image. But now, the price of these vehicles has risen considerably and they fall outside the range that families can afford when it comes to having a family car. This is one of the reasons why minivans, estate cars and MPVs are slowly returning to the market.

Although the return of these vehicles in Europe is still very slow, in the North American market their numbers are growing. In 2025, 42,377 units were sold in Canada, 34% more than the previous year. In the case of the United States, growth is greater, reaching 395,352 units, 20% more than in 2024. In both cases, although the figures are not very spectacular, they mark a trend that is becoming increasingly visible.

From a practical standpoint, minivans outperform SUVs in several respects. They offer more usable space, an elevated driving position that makes driving more pleasant and, above all, greater load capacity. This is very useful for carrying baby strollers, golf bags and small pieces of furniture on trips and shopping runs.

Models are multiplying in the United States and Canada and are proving a boost for brands in the Stellantis group, which offer several of them. The Chrysler Pacifica is being renewed this year and aims to remain a benchmark in this market. 110,006 units of this model have been sold in the United States. Across the two markets, Pacifica and Grand Caravan sales totalled 16,688 units in 2025, so we can see this is a market on the rise.

Toyota offers its alternative with the Sienna, which sold 15,218 units in Canada. In the United States it has already sold 101,486 units. Besides families, these minivans have become an option for delivery drivers, people facing long journeys, and those who want to enjoy an outdoor weekend. When the rear seats are folded, they create a flat, open space for resting if necessary.

Another argument car manufacturers are using in the United States to boost minivan sales is the production of models with crossover capabilities, to attract drivers who see an SUV as their ideal vehicle. The fact is that this trend is gradually taking hold and could become a global phenomenon, since they are more affordable, functional and practical vehicles. Will they reign in the market again and dethrone SUVs?