Drivers who need large vehicles with more passenger seats can choose either a minivan or SUV. While both types of vehicles are spacious, they are slightly different in terms of features, aesthetics, performance and build. Although minivans are not as popular as SUVs, there are still a preference among some people. A detailed overview of the difference between minivans and SUVs will help you understand which is more suitable for your needs.
Minivans VS SUVs
SUVs and minivans, both offer space but in different ways. Here are all the differences between the two car body types to help you decide which one suits you best:
1.Sliding Door Vs Swing-out Door
One of the defining differences between a minivan and an SUV is the type of door. While the SUVs come with swing-out rear doors, the back doors in most minivans are sliding. A few minivans were manufactured with swing-out doors such as Honda Odyssey, but they never became popular.
2. The Car Design
Another difference between the two cars is that of design. The minivans have a simpler van-shaped design with sliding doors and a short hood. On the other hand, SUVs have more attractive designs with bigger hoods. Moreover, SUVs are launched with different design modifications in various trim levels, but minivans have a somewhat consistent basic design.
3. Running Boards
Minivans and SUVs both are taller than an average passenger Sedan. However, the minivans have the advantage of a more realistic height that does not require an in-step. On the other hand, SUVs are taller and have running boards for the passengers and drivers to clamber on. The setting looks outdated and a bit of a hassle.
4. Vehicle Controls
Since the SUVs were originally based on truck chassis, they have conventional controls. Even now when most SUVs are based on car design, the controls are still straightforward. However, the case is not so simple for minivans. The minivans have shorter hoods causing the engines and ancillary components to interfere in the passenger space. Unless designed more creatively, vehicle controls can be difficult to manoeuvre in minivans.
5. Space and Flexibility
Minivan or SUV – both are designed to haul cargo and accommodate more passengers than an average sedan. While both car types fulfil the requirement, they do so with different degrees.
Minivans offer better floor space as the rear seats simply disappear into the floor. This provides ample space for cargo. As for the SUVs, the rear seats can be folded but the resulting space is not at par with minivans.
The cargo space in minivans such as Chrysler Pacifica is 3,978 litres. Meanwhile, some other biggest SUVs like the Ford Expedition offer a cargo space of around 3,440 litres after the folding of the second and third rows of seats.
You can buy used Ford Expedition SUVs at affordable rates online.
6. Powertrain
The powertrain option in minivans is limited to V6. The only minivan to offer a hybrid powertrain option is the Chrysler Pacifica. On the other hand, the powertrain options in the SUVs available in the market range from a V4 to a beefy V8 engine. Hybrid and turbo-powered engine options are also available in SUVs.
7. Fuel Economy
Another noticeable difference between a minivan and an SUV is the fuel economy. With limited powertrain options, the fuel economy of minivans is limited. Most minivans require 10.69 litres of fuel per 100 km. However, the fuel economy of SUVs varies over a vast range. Some SUVs have 13.83 litres/100 km fuel efficiency others offer as much as 8.7 litres/100 km.
8. Off-roading
One of the defining features of an SUV is it offers a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive. This makes SUVs ideal for off-roading. With their higher ground clearance and 4-wheel-drive option, SUVs are considered a better option for off-roading compared to minivans.
FAQs
Which are some of the coolest minivans in the UAE?
Based on performance, minivans that are considered coolest in the UAE include Honda Odyssey with a starting price of around AED 150,000, Kia Sedona at AED 111,568 and Ford Transit Connect Wagon from AED 94,395.
What is the best SUV for a big family?
SUVs that are considered the best for big families include Nissan Patrol, Ford Explorer, Toyota Land Cruiser and Fortuners among others.
Have a look at the listings for some of these cars:
- Used Toyota Land Cruiser for sale
- Buy used Nissan Patrol
- Second hand Ford Explorer for sale
- Buy second hand Toyota Fortuner
These are the differences between minivans and SUVs. Despite the various advantages of minivans, SUVs have the edge over them in car markets nowadays. Yet, minivans are nowhere near extinction and keep popping up with their unquestionable utility.
By now, you must have decided whether you want a minivan or an SUV. Check out these used cars for sale to choose your family car that best fits to your needs and requirements.
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