Get Our Extension
Select Wikiz in another Language
DeutschEspañolSuomiFrançaisעבריתItalianoNederlands
Settings
A
A
Text Highlights
Notes/Citations
Edit on Wikipedia

Share This Article

About Wikiz About Us Cookies Policy Terms & Services Privacy Policy Contact Contact us Enjoying Wikipedia Content? DONATE TO WIKIPEDIA
Enjoying Wikipedia Content? DONATE TO WIKIPEDIA

Minivan

From Wikipedia, in a visual modern way
"Mini van" redirects here. For the van version of the Mini car, see Mini Van.
The Chrysler Pacifica, the best-selling minivan in the United States as of 2020[1]
The Chrysler Pacifica, the best-selling minivan in the United States as of 2020[1]

Minivan (sometimes called simply as van) is a car classification for vehicles designed to transport passengers in the rear seating row(s), with reconfigurable seats in two or three rows. The equivalent classification in Europe is MPV (multi-purpose vehicle).[2] In Southeast Asia, the equivalent classification is Asian Utility Vehicle (AUV).

Minivans often have a 'one-box' or 'two-box' body configuration, a higher roof, a flat floor, sliding doors for rear passengers, and high H-point seating.

Compared with a full-size van, most minivans are based on a passenger car platform and have a lower body. Early models such as the Ford Aerostar and Chevrolet Astro utilized a compact pickup truck platform.[3][4]

The largest size of minivans is also referred to as 'Large MPV' and became popular following the introduction of the 1984 Dodge Caravan and Renault Espace. Typically, these have platforms derived from D-segment passenger cars or compact pickups. Since the 1990s, the smaller compact MPV and mini MPV sizes of minivans have also become popular.[5]

Discover more about Minivan related topics

Car classification

Car classification

Governments and private organizations have developed car classification schemes that are used for various purposes including regulation, description, and categorization of cars.

Car body configurations

Car body configurations

The configuration of a car body is typically determined by the layout of the engine, passenger and luggage compartments, which can be shared or separately articulated. A key design feature is the car's roof-supporting pillars, designated from front to rear of the car as A-pillar, B-pillar, C-pillar and D-pillar.

H-point

H-point

The H-point is the theoretical, relative location of an occupant's hip: specifically the pivot point between the torso and upper leg portions of the body — as used in vehicle design, automotive design and vehicle regulation as well as other disciplines including chair and furniture design.

Car platform

Car platform

A car platform is a shared set of common design, engineering, and production efforts, as well as major components, over a number of outwardly distinct models and even types of cars, often from different, but somewhat related, marques. It is practiced in the automotive industry to reduce the costs associated with the development of products by basing those products on a smaller number of platforms. This further allows companies to create distinct models from a design perspective on similar underpinnings. A car platform is not to be confused with a platform chassis, although such a chassis can be part of an automobile’s design platform, as noted below.

Ford Aerostar

Ford Aerostar

The Ford Aerostar is a range of vans that was manufactured by Ford from the 1986 to the 1997 model years. The first minivan produced by Ford, the model line was marketed against the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the first two generations of the Chrysler minivans. Introduced shortly before the Ford Taurus, the Aerostar derived its name from its slope-nosed "one-box" exterior.

Chevrolet Astro

Chevrolet Astro

The Chevrolet Astro is a van that was manufactured and marketed by the Chevrolet division of American auto manufacturer General Motors from 1985 to 2005. Sold alongside the GMC Safari, the Astro was marketed in multiple configurations, including passenger minivan and cargo van.

Dodge Caravan

Dodge Caravan

The Dodge Caravan is a series of minivans that was manufactured by Chrysler from the 1984 to 2020 model years. The Dodge version of the Chrysler minivans, the Caravan was marketed as both a passenger van and a cargo van. For 1987, a long-wheelbase Dodge Grand Caravan was introduced. Produced in five generations across 36 model years, Dodge Caravan is the second longest-lived Dodge nameplate.

Renault Espace

Renault Espace

The Renault Espace is a large five-door multi-purpose vehicle/MPV (M-segment) manufactured by Renault since 1984 for five generations. The first three generations of the Espace were amongst the first contemporary minivans or MPVs, and were manufactured by Matra for Renault. The fourth generation, also an MPV, was manufactured by Renault. The Renault Grand Espace is a long wheelbase (LWB) version with increased rear leg room and boot size. The fifth generation is introduced with a crossover SUV-inspired styling while keeping the space-oriented MPV body style. Renault described the fifth generation Espace as a 'crossover-style MPV' which combines elements of saloon, SUV and MPV, while retaining interior space and practicality of the latter. The sixth generation Espace will return as an SUV.

Compact MPV

Compact MPV

Compact MPV is a vehicle size class for the middle size of MPVs. The Compact MPV size class sits between the mini MPV and large MPV (minivan) size classes.

Mini MPV

Mini MPV

Mini MPV— an abbreviation for mini multi-purpose vehicle— is a vehicle size class for the smallest size of minivans/MPVs. The mini MPV size class sits below the compact MPV size class and the vehicles are often built on the platforms of B-segment hatchback models. By the European definition, the mini MPV commonly consists of cars with two rows of seats, while in Asia mini MPVs with three rows are common. Sliding doors are sometimes also fitted to mini MPVs. Mini MPV are also called tall-hatchback or small MPV.

Etymology

The term minivan originated in both North America and in the United Kingdom in 1959. In the UK, Minivan referred to a small van manufactured by Austin and it was based on the newly introduced Mini car. In the US, the term was used in order to differentiate the smaller passenger vehicles from full-size vans (such as the Ford E-Series, Dodge Ram Van, and Chevrolet Van), which were then simply called 'vans'.[6]

The first known use of the term was in 1959,[7] but not until the 1980s was it commonly used.

Portion of 1973 ad displayed with MPC model kit instructions
Portion of 1973 ad displayed with MPC model kit instructions

Predecessors

Before the "minivan" term, the 1936 Stout Scarab is often regarded as the first minivan.[8][9][10][11] The passenger seats in the Scarab were moveable and could be configured for the passengers to sit around a table in the rear of the cabin. Passengers entered and exited the Scarab via a centrally-mounted door.

The DKW Schnellaster — manufactured from 1949 until 1962 — featured front-wheel drive, a transverse engine, flat floor and multi-configurable seating, all of which would later become characteristics of minivans.[12]

In 1950, the Volkswagen Type 2 adapted a bus-shaped body to the chassis of a small passenger car (the Volkswagen Beetle). When Volkswagen introduced a sliding side door to the Type 2 in 1968, it then had the prominent features that would later come to define a minivan: compact length, three rows of forward-facing seats, station wagon-style top-hinged tailgate/liftgate, sliding side door, passenger car base.[13]

The 1956–1969 Fiat Multipla also had many features in common with modern minivans. The Multipla was based on the chassis of the Fiat 600 and had a rear engine and cab forward layout.[14]

The early 1960s saw Ford and Chevrolet introduce "compact" vans for the North American market, the Econoline Club Wagon and Greenbrier respectively. The Ford version was marketed in the Falcon series, the Chevrolet in the Corvair 95 series. The Econoline grew larger in the 1970s, while the Greenbrier was joined by (and later replaced by) the Chevy Van.

Discover more about Predecessors related topics

Stout Scarab

Stout Scarab

The Stout Scarab is a streamlined 1930–1940s American car, designed by William Bushnell Stout and manufactured by Stout Engineering Laboratories and later by Stout Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan.

DKW Schnellaster

DKW Schnellaster

The DKW Schnellaster, also known as the DKW F89 L, was a van produced by DKW from 1949 to 1962. Alongside the DKW F89 passenger car, it was the first vehicle to be manufactured by the new Auto Union conglomerate in Ingolstadt following the re-establishment of the business in West Germany. The model name Schnellaster translates from German to English as Rapid Transporter.

Front-wheel drive

Front-wheel drive

Front-wheel drive (FWD) is a form of engine and transmission layout used in motor vehicles, where the engine drives the front wheels only. Most modern front-wheel drive vehicles feature a transverse engine, rather than the conventional longitudinal engine arrangement generally found in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles.

Transverse engine

Transverse engine

A transverse engine is an engine mounted in a vehicle so that the engine's crankshaft axis is perpendicular to the direction of travel. Many modern front-wheel drive vehicles use this engine mounting configuration. Most rear-wheel drive vehicles use a longitudinal engine configuration, where the engine's crankshaft axis is parallel with the direction of travel, except for some rear-mid engine vehicles, which use a transverse engine and transaxle mounted in the rear instead of the front. Despite typically being used in light vehicles, it is not restricted to such designs and has also been used on armoured fighting vehicles to save interior space.

Volkswagen Type 2

Volkswagen Type 2

The Volkswagen Type 2, known officially as the Transporter, Kombi or Microbus, or, informally, as the Bus (US), Camper (UK) or Bulli (Germany), is a forward control light commercial vehicle introduced in 1950 by the German automaker Volkswagen as its second car model. Following – and initially deriving from – Volkswagen's first model, the Type 1 (Beetle), it was given the factory designation Type 2.

Fiat 600

Fiat 600

The Fiat 600 is a rear-engine, water-cooled city car, manufactured and marketed by Fiat from 1955 to 1969 — offered in two-door fastback sedan and four-door Multipla mini MPV body styles.

Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout

Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout

In automotive design, an RR, or rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout places both the engine and drive wheels at the rear of the vehicle. In contrast to the RMR layout, the center of mass of the engine is between the rear axle and the rear bumper. Although very common in transit buses and coaches due to the elimination of the drive shaft with low-floor buses, this layout has become increasingly rare in passenger cars.

Cab forward

Cab forward

The term cab forward refers to various rail and road vehicle designs that place the driver's compartment substantially farther towards the front than is common practice.

Chevrolet Greenbrier

Chevrolet Greenbrier

The name Chevrolet Greenbrier was used by Chevrolet for two vehicles. The first vehicles were a six to nine passenger window van version of the Corvair 95 van. The Corvair 95 series also included the Loadside pickup truck and Rampside pickup truck that featured a mid-body ramp on the right side. All used the Corvair powertrain in a truck body and were produced in the model years 1961 to 1965.

Ford Falcon (North America)

Ford Falcon (North America)

The Ford Falcon is a model line of cars that was produced by Ford from the 1960 to 1970 model years. Though preceded by the Rambler American, the Falcon was the first compact car marketed by the Big Three American manufacturers. Introduced five years after the Ford Thunderbird, the Falcon was the third car line introduced by Ford.

Chevrolet Corvair

Chevrolet Corvair

The Chevrolet Corvair is a compact car manufactured by Chevrolet for model years 1960–1969 in two generations. A response to the Volkswagen Beetle, it remains the only American-designed, mass-produced passenger car with a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine. The Corvair was manufactured and marketed in 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe, convertible, 4-door station wagon, passenger van, commercial van, and pickup truck body styles in its first generation (1960–1964) and as a 2-door coupe, convertible or 4-door hardtop in its second (1965–1969) – with a total production of approximately 1.8 million from 1960 until 1969.

Characteristics

Chassis

In contrast to larger vans, most modern minivans/MPVs use a front-engine, front-wheel drive layout, while some model lines offer all-wheel drive as an option. Alongside the adoption of the form factor introduced by Chrysler minivans, the configuration allows for less engine intrusion and a lower floor in the passenger compartment. In line with larger full-size vans, unibody construction has been commonly used (the spaceframe design of the Renault Espace and the General Motors APV minivans being exceptions).

Minivans/MPVs are produced on either distinct chassis architecture or share platforms with other types of vehicles such as sedans and crossover SUVs.

Body style

Side profile of a Honda Odyssey
Side profile of a Honda Odyssey

Minivans/MPVs use either a two-box or a one-box body design with A, B, C and D pillars. The cabin may be fitted with two, three, or four rows of seats, with the most common configurations being 2+3+2 or 2+3+3. Compared to other types of passenger vehicles, the body shape of minivans is designed to maximize interior space for both passengers and cargo. It is achieved by lengthening the wheelbase, creating a flatter floor, taller roof, and more upright side profile, but not as prominent as commercial-oriented vans that are boxier in profile. Practicality and comfort for passengers are also enhanced with a larger rear cargo space opening and larger windows.[15]

Some minivans/MPVs may use sliding doors while others offer conventional forward-hinged doors. Initially, a feature of the 1982 Nissan Prairie, the 1996 Chrysler minivans introduced a driver-side sliding door; by 2002, all minivans were sold with doors on both sides of the body. Most minivans are configured with a rear liftgate; few minivans have used panel-style rear doors, for example, cargo versions of the Chevrolet Astro, Ford Aerostar, and the Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

Interior

A cutaway Renault Espace V, showcasing its relatively flat floor and third-row seat space
A cutaway Renault Espace V, showcasing its relatively flat floor and third-row seat space

Most minivans are designed with a reconfigurable interior to carry either passengers or cargo. The first examples were designed with removable rear seats unlatched from the floor for removal and storage (in line with larger vans); however, users gave poor reception to the design as many seats were heavy and hard to remove. In 1995, the Honda Odyssey was introduced with a third-row seat that folded flat into the floor, which was then adopted by many competitors, including Chrysler that introduced third-row and fold-flat second-row seats in 2005.

High-end minivans may include distinguished features such as captain seats or Ottoman seats, as opposed to bench seats for the second row.[16]

Discover more about Characteristics related topics

Chrysler minivans

Chrysler minivans

The Chrysler minivans are a series of minivans that have been produced and marketed by the American automaker Chrysler since the 1984 model year. Currently in its sixth generation, the model line is marketed worldwide, primarily in North America and Europe. Introduced as the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager, the Chrysler minivans have been marketed under a variety of nameplates under the Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge, and Ram brands; through the use of rebadging, the model line has also been marketed under the Lancia and Volkswagen brands.

Renault Espace

Renault Espace

The Renault Espace is a large five-door multi-purpose vehicle/MPV (M-segment) manufactured by Renault since 1984 for five generations. The first three generations of the Espace were amongst the first contemporary minivans or MPVs, and were manufactured by Matra for Renault. The fourth generation, also an MPV, was manufactured by Renault. The Renault Grand Espace is a long wheelbase (LWB) version with increased rear leg room and boot size. The fifth generation is introduced with a crossover SUV-inspired styling while keeping the space-oriented MPV body style. Renault described the fifth generation Espace as a 'crossover-style MPV' which combines elements of saloon, SUV and MPV, while retaining interior space and practicality of the latter. The sixth generation Espace will return as an SUV.

Chevrolet Lumina APV

Chevrolet Lumina APV

The Chevrolet Lumina APV is a minivan that was produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. The first front-wheel drive minivan sold by Chevrolet, the Lumina APV was sold in a single generation from the 1990 to 1996 model years. Marketed alongside the Pontiac Trans Sport and Oldsmobile Silhouette, the Lumina APV competed against the Dodge Grand Caravan/Plymouth Grand Voyager, the extended-length Ford Aerostar, and the Mazda MPV.

Honda Odyssey (North America)

Honda Odyssey (North America)

For the North American market, the Honda Odyssey, is a minivan manufactured and marketed by Japanese automaker Honda since 1994, now in its fifth generation, which began in 2018.

Pillar (car)

Pillar (car)

The pillars on a car with permanent roof body style are the vertical or nearly vertical supports of its window area or greenhouse—designated respectively as the A, B, C and D-pillar, moving from front to rear, in profile view.

Wheelbase

Wheelbase

In both road and rail vehicles, the wheelbase is the horizontal distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels. For road vehicles with more than two axles, the wheelbase is the distance between the steering (front) axle and the centerpoint of the driving axle group. In the case of a tri-axle truck, the wheelbase would be the distance between the steering axle and a point midway between the two rear axles.

Nissan Prairie

Nissan Prairie

The Nissan Prairie is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Nissan from 1981 to 2004. Considered a mini MPV or a compact MPV. It was also marketed as the Multi in Canada and the Stanza Wagon in the United States. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Bluebird Store locations, then later at Nissan Blue Stage sales channels. The Prairie had a very flexible seating capability and sliding rear doors on both sides of the vehicle, with a liftgate in the back. The name "prairie" was derived from French which means an extensive area of relatively flat grassland, similar to "steppe" or "savanna".

Chrysler minivans (NS)

Chrysler minivans (NS)

The third-generation Chrysler minivans are a series of passenger minivans that were marketed by the Chrysler Corporation from the 1996 to 2000 model years. Designated the NS platform by Chrysler, these minivans were sold by Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth divisions in passenger configurations; minivans were exported under the Chrysler brand. While the second-generation AS platform was a revision of the original vans, the NS platform marked the first ground-up redesign of the Chrysler vans since their 1984 introduction, ending the use of components from K-Car derivatives.

Chevrolet Astro

Chevrolet Astro

The Chevrolet Astro is a van that was manufactured and marketed by the Chevrolet division of American auto manufacturer General Motors from 1985 to 2005. Sold alongside the GMC Safari, the Astro was marketed in multiple configurations, including passenger minivan and cargo van.

Ford Aerostar

Ford Aerostar

The Ford Aerostar is a range of vans that was manufactured by Ford from the 1986 to the 1997 model years. The first minivan produced by Ford, the model line was marketed against the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the first two generations of the Chrysler minivans. Introduced shortly before the Ford Taurus, the Aerostar derived its name from its slope-nosed "one-box" exterior.

Chrysler

Chrysler

Stellantis North America, officially FCA US and formerly Chrysler, is one of the "Big Three" automobile manufacturers in the United States, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is the American subsidiary of the multinational automotive company Stellantis. In addition to the Chrysler brand, Stellantis North America sells vehicles worldwide under the Dodge, Jeep, and Ram nameplates. It also includes Mopar, its automotive parts and accessories division, and SRT, its performance automobile division.

Ottoman (furniture)

Ottoman (furniture)

An ottoman is a piece of furniture. Generally ottomans have neither backs nor arms. They may be an upholstered low couch or a smaller cushioned seat used as a table, stool or footstool. The seat may have hinges and form a lid for the inside hollow, which can be used for storage of linen, magazines or other items, making it a form of storage furniture. The smaller version is usually placed near to an armchair or sofa as part of living room decor or may be used as a fireside seat.

North America

Minivans developed for the North American market are distinct from most minivan/MPVs marketed in other regions such as Europe and Asia owing to their larger footprint and larger engine. As of 2020, average exterior length for minivans in North America ranged around 200 inches (5.08 m), while many models uses V6 engines with more than 270 horsepower (201 kW; 274 PS) mainly to fulfill towing capacity requirements which is demanded by North American customers.[17][18]

In 2021, sales of the segment totalled 310,630 units in the U.S. (2.1% of the overall car market), and 33,544 in Canada (2.0% of the overall car market).[19][20] As of 2022, the passenger-oriented minivan segment consists of the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Voyager, Honda Odyssey, and Kia Carnival.[21]

History

1970s and 1980s

1985 Dodge Caravan
1985 Dodge Caravan

In the late 1970s, Chrysler began a development program to design "a small affordable van that looked and handled more like a car."[22] The result of this program was the first American minivans based on the S platform, the 1984 Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan.[23] The S minivans debuted the minivan design features of front-wheel drive, a flat floor and a sliding door for rear passengers.[22][24][25]

The term minivan came into use largely in comparison to size to full-size vans; at six feet tall or lower, 1980s minivans were intended to fit inside a typical garage door opening.[26] In 1984, The New York Times described minivans "the hot cars coming out of Detroit,"[27] noting that "analysts say the mini-van has created an entirely new market, one that may well overshadow the... station wagon."[27]

In response to the popularity of the Voyager/Caravan, General Motors released the 1985 Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari badge-engineered twins, and Ford released the 1986 Ford Aerostar. These vehicles used a traditional rear-wheel drive layout, unlike the Voyager/Caravan.[26][28]

To match the launch of minivans by American manufacturers, Japanese manufacturers introduced the Toyota TownAce, Nissan Vanette, and Mitsubishi Delica to North America in 1984, 1986, and 1987, respectively. These vehicles were marketed with the generic "Van" and "Wagon" names (for cargo and passenger vans, respectively).[29][30]

In 1989, the Mazda MPV was released as the first Japanese-brand minivan developed from the ground up specifically for the North American market. Its larger chassis allowed for the fitment of an optional V6 engine and four-wheel drive. In contrast to the sliding doors of American minivans, a hinged passenger-side door was used. A driver-side door was added for 1996, as Mazda gradually remarketed the model line as an early crossover SUV.

By the end of the 1980s, demand for minivans as family vehicles had largely superseded full-size station wagons in the United States.[31]

1990s

1998–2000 Toyota Sienna
1998–2000 Toyota Sienna

During the 1990s, the minivan segment underwent several major changes. Many models switched to the front-wheel drive layout used by the Voyager/Caravan minivans. For example, Ford replaced the Aerostar with the front-wheel drive Mercury Villager for 1993 and the Ford Windstar for 1995. The models also increased in size, as a result of the extended-wheelbase ("Grand") versions of the Voyager and Caravan which were launched in 1987. An increase in luxury features and interior equipment was seen in the Eddie Bauer version of the 1988 Ford Aerostar, the 1990 Chrysler Town & Country, and the 1990 Oldsmobile Silhouette. The third-generation Plymouth Voyager, Dodge Caravan, and Chrysler Town & Country – released for the 1996 model year – were available with an additional sliding door on the driver's side.

Following the 1990 discontinuation of the Nissan Vanette into the United States, Nissan also ended the sale of the second-generation Nissan Axxess. Nissan reentered the segment by forming a joint venture with Ford to develop and assemble a minivan which became the Nissan Quest and its Mercury Villager counterpart.

Toyota also introduced the Toyota Previa in 1990 to replace the Van/Wagon in North America. It was designed solely as a passenger vehicle sized to compete with American-market minivans. For 1998, the Toyota Sienna became the first Japanese-brand minivan assembled in North America, replacing the Toyota Previa in that market. For 1999, Honda introduced a separate version of the Odyssey for North America, with North America receiving a larger vehicle with sliding doors.

2000s and 2010s

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

The highest selling year for minivans was in 2000, when 1.4 million units were sold. However, in the following years, sales of minivans began to decrease. In 2013, sales of the segment reached approximately 500,000, one-third of its 2000 peak.[32] Market share of minivans in 2019 reached around 2% after a steady decline from 2004, when the segment recorded above 6% of share.[33] It has been suggested that the falling popularity of minivans is due to the popularity of SUVs and crossovers, and its increasingly undesirable image as a vehicle for older drivers or the soccer mom demographics.[32][34][35]

Due to the market decline, North American sales of the Volkswagen Eurovan ceased in 2003. Ford exited the segment in 2006 when the Ford Freestar was canceled, Chrysler discontinued its short-wheelbase minivans in 2007, and General Motors exited the segment in 2009 with the cancellation of the Chevrolet Uplander. However, Volkswagen marketed the Volkswagen Routan (a rebadged Chrysler RT minivans) between 2009 and 2013. In 2010, Ford started importing the commercial-oriented Ford Transit Connect Wagon from Turkey. A similar vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Metris entered the North American market in 2016.

The Kia Sedona, which was introduced for the 2002 model year, is notable for being the first minivan from a South Korean manufacturer in the region.[36] For 2007, Kia also introduced the three-row Kia Rondo compact MPV, where it was prominently marketed as a crossover due to its small size and the use of hinged rear doors.[37][38]

Another compact MPV released to the market was the Mazda5 in 2012, which is a three-row vehicle with rear sliding doors. Mazda claimed the model "does not fit into any traditional (North American) segmentation."[39] The Ford C-Max was released for 2013 as a hybrid electric and battery electric compact MPV with sliding doors, although it did not offer third-row seating in North America.[40][41]

Discover more about North America related topics

Chrysler Pacifica

Chrysler Pacifica

Chrysler Pacifica is a nameplate used by Chrysler for a variety of vehicles.

Chrysler Voyager

Chrysler Voyager

The Chrysler Voyager is a minivan produced by the Chrysler division of Stellantis. In the current lineup, it is positioned as the lower-end Chrysler minivan, having replaced the Dodge Grand Caravan in 2020, below the Chrysler Pacifica.

Honda Odyssey

Honda Odyssey

Honda Odyssey can refer to three motor vehicles manufactured by Honda:Honda Odyssey (ATV), an all-terrain vehicle (1977—1989) Honda Odyssey (minivan), a brand of two different Honda minivan models for different markets Honda Odyssey (international), sold in Japan and most other parts of the world Honda Odyssey, sold primarily in the United States, Canada and Saudi Arabia

Kia Carnival

Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival is a minivan manufactured by Kia since 1998. It is marketed globally under various nameplates — prominently as the Kia Sedona — which is now unused in favor of the Carnival.

Honda Odyssey (North America)

Honda Odyssey (North America)

For the North American market, the Honda Odyssey, is a minivan manufactured and marketed by Japanese automaker Honda since 1994, now in its fifth generation, which began in 2018.

Chrysler Pacifica (minivan)

Chrysler Pacifica (minivan)

The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan produced by the Chrysler division of Stellantis. It is unrelated to the discontinued crossover and concept vehicles by the same name and replaced the Chrysler Town & Country for the 2017 model year. It is positioned as the higher-end Chrysler minivan, above the Dodge Grand Caravan until 2020 and above the Chrysler Voyager since 2020.

Dodge Caravan

Dodge Caravan

The Dodge Caravan is a series of minivans that was manufactured by Chrysler from the 1984 to 2020 model years. The Dodge version of the Chrysler minivans, the Caravan was marketed as both a passenger van and a cargo van. For 1987, a long-wheelbase Dodge Grand Caravan was introduced. Produced in five generations across 36 model years, Dodge Caravan is the second longest-lived Dodge nameplate.

Chrysler minivans (S)

Chrysler minivans (S)

The first-generation Chrysler minivans are a series of minivans produced and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation from the 1984 to the 1990 model years. Introduced as the first minivans from an American-brand manufacturer and popularizing the minivan as a vehicle, the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager were launched ahead of chief competitors Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and Ford Aerostar.

Plymouth Voyager

Plymouth Voyager

Plymouth Voyager is a nameplate for a range of vans that were marketed by the Plymouth division of Chrysler. From 1974 until 1983, the Voyager was a full-size van, sold as the counterpart of Dodge Sportsman. For 1984, the Voyager became a Chrysler minivan sold alongside the Dodge Caravan; as a minivan, three generations of the Voyager were sold from 1984 until 2000. Following the closure of the Plymouth division in 2000, the Voyager was marketed under the Chrysler brand, where it was sold through 2003.

General Motors

General Motors

The General Motors Company (GM) is an American multinational automotive manufacturing company headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, United States. It is the largest automaker in the United States and was the largest in the world for 77 years before losing the top spot to Toyota in 2008.

Chevrolet Astro

Chevrolet Astro

The Chevrolet Astro is a van that was manufactured and marketed by the Chevrolet division of American auto manufacturer General Motors from 1985 to 2005. Sold alongside the GMC Safari, the Astro was marketed in multiple configurations, including passenger minivan and cargo van.

Ford Aerostar

Ford Aerostar

The Ford Aerostar is a range of vans that was manufactured by Ford from the 1986 to the 1997 model years. The first minivan produced by Ford, the model line was marketed against the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the first two generations of the Chrysler minivans. Introduced shortly before the Ford Taurus, the Aerostar derived its name from its slope-nosed "one-box" exterior.

Europe

1989 Renault Espace2001 Citroën Evasion/Synergie2020 Mercedes-Benz EQV
1989 Renault Espace
1989 Renault Espace2001 Citroën Evasion/Synergie2020 Mercedes-Benz EQV
2001 Citroën Evasion/Synergie
1989 Renault Espace2001 Citroën Evasion/Synergie2020 Mercedes-Benz EQV
2020 Mercedes-Benz EQV

In Europe, the classification is commonly known as "MPV" or "people carrier"[42] and includes smaller vehicles with two-row seating.[43][44]

History

1980s

The 1984 Renault Espace was the first European-developed minivan developed primarily for passenger use (as the Volkswagen Caravelle/Vanagon was a derivative of a commercial van). Beginning development in the 1970s under the European subsidiaries of Chrysler,[45] the Espace was intended as a successor for the Matra Rancho, leading to its use of front-hinged doors. While slow-selling at the time of its release, the Espace would go on to become the most successful European-brand minivans.[46]

Initially intending to market the Espace in North America through American Motors Corporation (AMC), the 1987 sale of AMC to Chrysler canceled the plans for Renault to do so. In the late 1980s, Chrysler and Ford commenced sales of American-designed minivans in Europe (categorized as full-size in the region), selling the Chrysler Voyager and Ford Aerostar. General Motors imported the Oldsmobile Silhouette (branded as the Pontiac Trans Sport), later marketing the American-produced Opel/Vauxhall Sintra.

1990s

In the 1990s, several joint ventures produced long-running minivan designs. In 1994, badge engeenered series of Eurovans was introduced produced by Sevel Nord and marketed by Citroën, Fiat, Lancia, and Peugeot. The Eurovans were produced with two sliding doors; to increase interior space, the gearshift was located on the dashboard and adopted a petal-type handbrake. In 1995, Ford of Europe and Volkswagen entered a joint venture, producing the Ford Galaxy, SEAT Alhambra, and Volkswagen Sharan badged vans that featured rear side doors that were front-hinged rather than sliding.

In 1996, Mercedes introduced the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, it is available as a standard panel van for cargo (called Vito), or with passenger accommodations substituted for part or all of the load area (called V-Class or Viano). In 1998, the Fiat Multipla was released. A two-row, six-seater MPV with a 3+3 seat configuration borrowing its name from an older minivan, it is notable for its highly controversial design.[47]

Market reaction to these new full-size MPV models was mixed. Consumers perceived MPVs as large and truck-like despite boasting similar footprints as large sedans. Arguably, cultural reasons regarding vehicle size and high fuel prices were a factor. During 1996 and 1997, the Western European MPV market expanded from around 210,000 units to 350,000 units annually. However, the growth did not continue as expected, resulting in serious plant overcapacity.[48]

Renault set a new "compact MPV" standard with the Renault Scénic in 1996 which became popular. Based on the C-segment Mégane platform, it offered the same multi-use and flexibility aspects as the larger MPVs in a much smaller footprint.[48]

2000s

After the success of the Renault Scénic, other makers have developed similar European-focused products such as the Opel Zafira that offered three-row seating, Citroën Xsara Picasso and others.[48]

Discover more about Europe related topics

Renault Espace

Renault Espace

The Renault Espace is a large five-door multi-purpose vehicle/MPV (M-segment) manufactured by Renault since 1984 for five generations. The first three generations of the Espace were amongst the first contemporary minivans or MPVs, and were manufactured by Matra for Renault. The fourth generation, also an MPV, was manufactured by Renault. The Renault Grand Espace is a long wheelbase (LWB) version with increased rear leg room and boot size. The fifth generation is introduced with a crossover SUV-inspired styling while keeping the space-oriented MPV body style. Renault described the fifth generation Espace as a 'crossover-style MPV' which combines elements of saloon, SUV and MPV, while retaining interior space and practicality of the latter. The sixth generation Espace will return as an SUV.

Matra Rancho

Matra Rancho

The Matra Rancho is a leisure activity vehicle created by the French engineering group Matra, in cooperation with the automaker Simca, to capitalize on the off-road trend started by the Range Rover. The Rancho provided an "off-road look" at a lower price.

American Motors Corporation

American Motors Corporation

American Motors Corporation was an American automobile manufacturing company formed by the merger of Nash-Kelvinator Corporation and Hudson Motor Car Company on May 1, 1954. At the time, it was the largest corporate merger in U.S. history.

Chrysler Voyager

Chrysler Voyager

The Chrysler Voyager is a minivan produced by the Chrysler division of Stellantis. In the current lineup, it is positioned as the lower-end Chrysler minivan, having replaced the Dodge Grand Caravan in 2020, below the Chrysler Pacifica.

Opel Sintra

Opel Sintra

The Opel/Vauxhall Sintra is an automobile produced under the German marque Opel for the market in Europe between 1996 and 1999. It was sold in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall Sintra. The Sintra was one of the second generation U-body large multi-purpose vehicles (MPV).

Rebadging

Rebadging

In the automotive industry, rebadging is a form of market segmentation used by automobile manufacturers around the world. To allow for product differentiation without designing or engineering a new model or brand, a manufacturer creates a distinct automobile by applying a new "badge" or trademark to an existing product line.

Eurovans

Eurovans

The Eurovans are a family of passenger automobiles from the Citroën, Peugeot, Fiat and Lancia marques that were produced at the jointly owned Sevel Nord factory in France. The term Eurovan was not used by the brands themselves in sales literature, but rather by the motoring press to refer to the vans collectively. It was launched in March 1994, and production ceased in November 2010 for the Fiat and Lancia models, and in June 2014 for the Citroën and Peugeot siblings. They are considered to be large MPVs.

Ford Galaxy

Ford Galaxy

The Ford Galaxy is a seven-seater car produced by Ford of Europe from June 1995 to April 2023. Considered in the motor industry to be a large multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), it was the first Ford-brand MPV produced and marketed outside of North America, the model line is currently in its third generation. Sharing its platform architecture with the Ford Mondeo, the Galaxy was developed alongside the Ford S-Max; the model line is slotted between the Connect and Custom variants of the Ford Tourneo/Transit model family.

SEAT Alhambra

SEAT Alhambra

The SEAT Alhambra is a seven-seater minivan that was built from 1996 to 2020. It was manufactured under the SEAT brand from June 1996 onwards at the Volkswagen Group's AutoEuropa plant in Palmela, Portugal. It shares the same platform with the Volkswagen Sharan, and the first generation was also related to the Ford Galaxy. The vehicle is named after the Alhambra of Granada, a famous monument in Spain. It is considered in the motor industry to be a large multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

Volkswagen Sharan

Volkswagen Sharan

The Volkswagen Sharan is a seven-seater minivan that was produced by the German Volkswagen Group and built at the AutoEuropa plant in Palmela, Portugal, with a front-wheel-drive version across two generations, from 1995 to 2022. Through badge engineering, the Volkswagen Sharan shares the same platform with the SEAT Alhambra, and the first generation was also in most respects identical to the Ford Galaxy. From 2010 to 2022 the Sharan was in its second generation. It is described in the motor industry as a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

Fiat Multipla

Fiat Multipla

The Fiat Multipla is a six-seater car produced by Italian automaker Fiat from 1998 to 2010. Based on the Bravo/Brava, the Multipla was shorter and wider than its rivals. It had two rows of three seats, where its compact MPV competitors had two across front seating. The Multipla is shorter than the three-door Bravo/Brava on which it was based, yet it offered increased seating and cargo volume. Sales commenced in Italy in November 1998.

Renault Scénic

Renault Scénic

The Renault Scénic is a car which was produced by French car manufacturer Renault, the first to be labelled as a small multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in Europe. The first generation was based on the chassis of the Mégane, a small family car. It became the 1997 European Car of the Year on its launch in November 1996. In May 2022 Renault announced it was discontinuing the standard Scénic with the Grand Scénic following shortly after. It will be relaunched in 2024 as a fully electric vehicle.

Asia

Japan

1982–2004 Nissan Prairie1994–2022 Honda Odyssey2020–present Lexus LM
1982–2004 Nissan Prairie
1982–2004 Nissan Prairie1994–2022 Honda Odyssey2020–present Lexus LM
1994–2022 Honda Odyssey
1982–2004 Nissan Prairie1994–2022 Honda Odyssey2020–present Lexus LM
2020–present Lexus LM

In Japan, the classification is known as "minivan" (Japanese: ミニバン, Hepburn: Miniban) and defined by its three-row seating capacity.[49][50]

Before the birth of minivans with modern form factors, tall wagon-type vehicles with large seating capacity in Japan were known as light vans. It commonly adopts mid-engine, cab over design and rear-wheel drive layout with one-box form factor. Examples included the Toyota TownAce, Toyota HiAce, Nissan Vanette, Mitsubishi Delica and Mazda Bongo. These vehicles were based on commercial vehicles, which created a gap compared to sedans in terms of ride quality and luxury.[51]

The Nissan Prairie released in 1982 has been considered to be the first Japanese compact minivan.[52] Derived closely from a compact sedan, the Prairie was marketed as a "boxy sedan", configured with sliding doors, folding rear seats, and a lifting rear hatch.[51] The Mitsubishi Chariot adopted nearly the same form factor, instead using wagon-style front-hinged doors.

In 1990, Toyota introduced the Toyota Estima in Japan, which carried over the mid-engine configuration the TownAce.[53][54] Along with its highly rounded exterior, the Estima was distinguished by its nearly panoramic window glass.[55] The Estima was redesigned in 2000, adopting a front-wheel drive layout and offered with a hybrid powertrain since 2001.[56] In 2002, Toyota introduced the Toyota Alphard which was developed as a luxury-oriented model.

Nissan introduced the Nissan Serena in 1990 and the Nissan Elgrand in 1997.

In 1995, Honda entered the minivan segment by introducing the Honda Odyssey.[57] The Odyssey was designed with front-hinged doors and as derived from the Honda Accord. As the result, it came with advantages such as sedan-like driving dynamics and a lower floor to allow for easy access.[51] In a design feature that would become widely adopted by other manufacturers, the Odyssey introduced a rear seat that folded flat into the floor (replacing a removable rear seat). The Odyssey evolved to become a low-roof, estate-like minivan until 2013, when it adopted a high-roof body with rear sliding doors.[58] Honda also produced the Honda Stepwgn mid-size MPV since 1996, which is designed with a higher cabin and narrow width, and the Honda Stream since 2002 to slot below the Odyssey.[59][60]

In 2020, minivans made up 20.8% of total automobile sales in Japan behind SUVs and compact hatchbacks, making it one of the largest minivan markets in the world.[61]

South Korea

In South Korea, both the "minivan" and "MPV" terms are used.[62] The Kia Carnival (also sold the Kia Sedona) was introduced in 1998 with dual sliding doors. Sharing its configuration with the Honda Odyssey, the Hyundai Trajet was sold from 1999 to 2008. Introduced in 2004, the SsangYong Rodius is the highest-capacity minivan, seating up to 11 passengers. It was discontinued in 2019.

Current minivans marketed in South Korea are the Kia Carnival and Hyundai Staria, along with imported options such as the Toyota Sienna (originally for North America) and later generations of Honda Odyssey.[62]

China

Buick GL8 Century
Buick GL8 Century

In 1999, Shanghai GM commenced production of the Buick GL8 minivan, derived from a minivan platform designed by GM in the United States. After two generations of production, the GL8 is the final minivan produced by General Motors or its joint ventures today. It remained dominant in the high-end minivan segment in the market.[63]

Sales of minivans in China increased rapidly in 2015 and 2016, when the Chinese government lifted the one-child policy in favor of the two-child policy which pushed customer preference toward three-row vehicles in anticipation of a larger family. In 2016, 2,497,543 minivans were sold in China, a major increase from 2012 which recorded 936,232 sales. However, sales volume had shrunk ever since, with only 1,082,028 minivans sold in the domestic market in 2021 (4.1% of the total car market), around 720,000 of which were sold by domestic manufacturers.[63][64][65]

Indonesia

The MPV segment is the most popular passenger car segment in Indonesia with a market share of 40 percent in 2021.[66][67][68]

India

The category is commonly known as multi utility vehicle (MUV) or MPV.[69][70] In fiscal year 2020, sales volume of the segment totalled 283,583 vehicles, or 10.3% of industry total.[71][72]

Discover more about Asia related topics

Nissan Prairie

Nissan Prairie

The Nissan Prairie is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Nissan from 1981 to 2004. Considered a mini MPV or a compact MPV. It was also marketed as the Multi in Canada and the Stanza Wagon in the United States. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Bluebird Store locations, then later at Nissan Blue Stage sales channels. The Prairie had a very flexible seating capability and sliding rear doors on both sides of the vehicle, with a liftgate in the back. The name "prairie" was derived from French which means an extensive area of relatively flat grassland, similar to "steppe" or "savanna".

Honda Odyssey (international)

Honda Odyssey (international)

The Honda Odyssey is a minivan manufactured by Japanese automaker Honda since 1994, marketed in most of the world and currently in its fifth generation.

Japanese language

Japanese language

Japanese is spoken as a native language by about 128 million people, primarily Japanese people and primarily in Japan, the only country where it is the national language. Japanese belongs to the Japonic or Japanese-Ryukyuan language family. There have been many attempts to group the Japonic languages with other families such as the Ainu, Austroasiatic, Koreanic, and the now-discredited Altaic, but none of these proposals has gained widespread acceptance.

Hepburn romanization

Hepburn romanization

Hepburn romanization is the most widely used system of romanization for the Japanese language. Originally published in 1867 by American missionary James Curtis Hepburn as the standard in the first edition of his Japanese–English dictionary, the system is distinct from other romanization methods in its use of English orthography to phonetically transcribe sounds: for example, the syllable [ɕi] is written as shi and [tɕa] is written as cha, reflecting their spellings in English.

Mid-engine design

Mid-engine design

In automotive engineering, a mid-engine layout describes the placement of an automobile engine in front of the rear-wheel axles, but behind the front axle.

Cab over

Cab over

Cab-over, also known as cab over engine (COE), cab forward (U.S.), flat nose (Canada), or forward control (UK), is a body style of truck, bus, or van that has a vertical front, "flat face" or a semi-hood, with the cab of the truck sitting above the front axle. This contrasts with a conventional truck where the engine is mounted in front of the driver.

Mitsubishi Delica

Mitsubishi Delica

The Mitsubishi Delica is a range of vans and pickup trucks designed and built by the Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors since 1968. It was originally based on a cabover van and pickup truck introduced the previous year, also called the Delica, its name a contraction of the English language phrase Delivery car. This pickup truck, and a commercial van derived from it has received many names in export markets, being sold as the L300 in Europe, Jamaica and New Zealand, Express and Starwagon in Australia, and plain Mitsubishi Van and Wagon in the United States. The passenger car versions were known as Delica Star Wagon from 1979 until the 1994 introduction of the Delica Space Gear, which became simply Space Gear in Europe at least. The most recent version is called the Delica D:5. With the exception of the first, versions of all generations are still being sold in various international markets.

Mazda Bongo

Mazda Bongo

The Mazda Bongo , also known as Mazda E-Series and the Ford Econovan, is a cabover van and pickup truck manufactured by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Mazda since 1966. The Bongo name was also used for the Bongo Friendee, which is not a cabover design.

Mitsubishi Chariot

Mitsubishi Chariot

The Mitsubishi Chariot is an automobile manufactured and marketed by Mitsubishi from 1983 to 2003. It is a small multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Based on the SSW concept car first exhibited at the 23rd Tokyo Motor Show in 1979, the MPV derives its nameplate from chariots used by the ancient Greek and Roman empires.

Hybrid electric vehicle

Hybrid electric vehicle

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is a type of hybrid vehicle that combines a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional vehicle or better performance. There is a variety of HEV types and the degree to which each function as an electric vehicle (EV) also varies. The most common form of HEV is the hybrid electric car, although hybrid electric trucks, buses, boats and aircraft also exist.

Nissan Elgrand

Nissan Elgrand

The Nissan Elgrand is a minivan manufactured by Nissan Shatai for Nissan since 1997, available in three generations, with model codes E50 (1997–2002), E51 (2002–2010), and E52 (2010–present). The E50 Elgrand was also configured and produced as a light commercial vehicle from 1998 to 2017.

Honda Odyssey

Honda Odyssey

Honda Odyssey can refer to three motor vehicles manufactured by Honda:Honda Odyssey (ATV), an all-terrain vehicle (1977—1989) Honda Odyssey (minivan), a brand of two different Honda minivan models for different markets Honda Odyssey (international), sold in Japan and most other parts of the world Honda Odyssey, sold primarily in the United States, Canada and Saudi Arabia

Size categories

Mini MPV

Opel Meriva (2003–2017)
Opel Meriva (2003–2017)
Main article: Mini MPV

Mini MPV – an abbreviation for Mini Multi-Purpose Vehicle – is a vehicle size class for the smallest size of minivans (MPVs). The Mini MPV size class sits below the compact MPV size class and the vehicles are often built on the platforms of B-segment hatchback models.

Several minivans based on B-segment platforms have been marketed as 'leisure activity vehicles' in Europe.[73] These include the Fiat Fiorino and Ford Transit Courier.[74]

Examples: Category:Mini MPVs ( 69 )

Compact MPV

Volkswagen Touran (2015–present)
Volkswagen Touran (2015–present)
Main article: Compact MPV

Compact MPV – an abbreviation for Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle – is a vehicle size class for the middle size of MPVs/minivans. The Compact MPV size class sits between the mini MPV and minivan size classes.

Compact MPVs remain predominantly a European phenomenon, although they are also built and sold in many Latin American and Asian markets. As of 2016, the only compact MPV sold widely in the United States was the Ford C-Max.

Examples: Category:Compact MPVs ( 109 )

Discover more about Size categories related topics

Opel Meriva

Opel Meriva

The Opel Meriva is a car manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Opel on its Corsa platform, from May 2003 until June 2017 across two generations. Described as a mini MPV, it was marketed as the Vauxhall Meriva in the United Kingdom, while in Latin America, the first generation model was marketed as the Chevrolet Meriva.

Mini MPV

Mini MPV

Mini MPV— an abbreviation for mini multi-purpose vehicle— is a vehicle size class for the smallest size of minivans/MPVs. The mini MPV size class sits below the compact MPV size class and the vehicles are often built on the platforms of B-segment hatchback models. By the European definition, the mini MPV commonly consists of cars with two rows of seats, while in Asia mini MPVs with three rows are common. Sliding doors are sometimes also fitted to mini MPVs. Mini MPV are also called tall-hatchback or small MPV.

Fiat Fiorino

Fiat Fiorino

The Fiat Fiorino is a small commercial vehicle produced by the Italian car manufacturer Fiat since 1977. Its first two generations have been the panel van derivatives of other small models, such as the Fiat 127 and Fiat Uno, while the current third generation was developed jointly with PSA Peugeot Citroën, and is based on the Fiat Small platform.

Ford Transit Courier

Ford Transit Courier

The Ford Transit Courier is a leisure activity vehicle marketed by Ford of Europe. Making its debut as a model of 2014 at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the Transit Courier is the smallest vehicle of the product range of the Ford Transit. Deriving its underpinnings from the Ford Fiesta, the model line is the first van based on the Fiesta, since the discontinuation of the Ford Courier in August 2002.

Volkswagen Touran

Volkswagen Touran

The Volkswagen Touran is a car manufactured by German automaker Volkswagen since 2003 and sold in Europe and other select markets. A compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), it fills a gap in Volkswagen's model lineup between the Volkswagen Golf, with which it shares its platform, and the Volkswagen Sharan, its larger counterpart, which ceased production in 2022. The vehicle has been sold in Japan as the Golf Touran and the crossover-styled variant as the CrossTouran. The name 'Touran' is derived from the combination of 'Tour' and 'Sharan'. Despite the similarity of their names, the Touran is not related to the North American market Volkswagen Routan. The vehicle is delivered in five or seven seat versions.

Compact MPV

Compact MPV

Compact MPV is a vehicle size class for the middle size of MPVs. The Compact MPV size class sits between the mini MPV and large MPV (minivan) size classes.

Related categories

Leisure activity vehicle

Matra Rancho, one of the first LAVs
Matra Rancho, one of the first LAVs
Peugeot Rifter, a LAV based on the Peugeot Expert commercial van
Peugeot Rifter, a LAV based on the Peugeot Expert commercial van

A leisure activity vehicle (abbreviated LAV), also known as van-based MPV[75] and ludospace in French,[76] is the passenger-oriented version of small commercial vans primarily marketed in Europe.[73] One of the first LAVs was the 1977 Matra Rancho (among the first crossover SUVs and a precursor to the Renault Espace), with European manufacturers expanding the segment in the late 1990s, following the introduction of the Citroën Berlingo and Renault Kangoo.

Leisure activity vehicles are typically derived from supermini or subcompact car platforms, differing from mini MPVs in body design. To maximize interior space, LAVs feature a taller roof, more upright windshield, and longer hood/bonnet with either a liftgate or barn doors to access the boot. Marketed as an alternative to sedan-derived small family cars, LAVs have seating with a lower H-point than MPVs or minivans, offering two (or three) rows of seating.

Though sharing underpinnings with superminis, subcompacts, and mini MPVs, the use of an extended wheelbase can make leisure activity vehicles longer than the vehicles they are derived from. For example, the Fiat Doblò is one of the longest LAVs with a total length of 4,255 mm (167.5 in), versus the 4,050 mm (159.4 in) of the Opel Meriva (a mini MPV) and the 4,030 mm (158.7 in) of the Peugeot 206 SW (a supermini).

Asian utility vehicle

Main article: Basic utility vehicle
Toyota Revo, also known as the Kijang in Indonesia
Toyota Revo, also known as the Kijang in Indonesia

An Asian utility vehicle (abbreviated AUV) is a term originating from the Philippines to describe basic and affordable vehicles with either large seating capacity or cargo designed to be sold in developing countries. These vehicles are usually available in minivan-like wagon body style with a seating capacity of 7 to 16 passengers, and are usually based on a compact pickup truck with body-on-frame chassis and rear-wheel drive to maximize its load capacity and durability while maintaining low manufacturing cost. Until the 2000s, AUVs were popular in Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia and the Philippines, Taiwan, and some African markets.[77]

The first AUV is the Toyota Tamaraw/Kijang, which was introduced in the Philippines and Indonesia since 1975 as a pickup truck with optional rear cabin.[78] In the 1990s, other vehicles such as the Isuzu Panther/Hi-Lander/Crosswind and Mitsubishi Freeca/Adventure/Kuda emerged in the AUV segment.[79] Modern equivalent of AUV is the Toyota Innova, an MPV that is the direct successor to the Kijang which in its first two generations were built with body-on-frame construction. The third generation of the vehicle switched to unibody construction.[80]

Three-row SUV

See also: Sport utility vehicle and Crossover (automobile)

With the decline of the minivan/MPV category in many regions such as North America and Europe in the mid-2010s, SUVs and crossovers with three rows of seating became popular alternatives. Compared to minivans, three-row SUVs lose sliding doors and generally offer less interior space due to the higher priorities on exterior styling and higher ground clearance.[81][82][83]

Discover more about Related categories related topics

Matra Rancho

Matra Rancho

The Matra Rancho is a leisure activity vehicle created by the French engineering group Matra, in cooperation with the automaker Simca, to capitalize on the off-road trend started by the Range Rover. The Rancho provided an "off-road look" at a lower price.

Citroën Berlingo

Citroën Berlingo

The Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner are a range of multi-purpose vehicles produced by the PSA Group and later by Stellantis. They are sold both as panel vans for use as commercial vehicles and as a passenger variant with rear seats and windows. The third generation is also sold as the Opel/Vauxhall Combo, as the Toyota ProAce City from 2019 and as the Fiat Doblò from 2022.

Mini MPV

Mini MPV

Mini MPV— an abbreviation for mini multi-purpose vehicle— is a vehicle size class for the smallest size of minivans/MPVs. The mini MPV size class sits below the compact MPV size class and the vehicles are often built on the platforms of B-segment hatchback models. By the European definition, the mini MPV commonly consists of cars with two rows of seats, while in Asia mini MPVs with three rows are common. Sliding doors are sometimes also fitted to mini MPVs. Mini MPV are also called tall-hatchback or small MPV.

H-point

H-point

The H-point is the theoretical, relative location of an occupant's hip: specifically the pivot point between the torso and upper leg portions of the body — as used in vehicle design, automotive design and vehicle regulation as well as other disciplines including chair and furniture design.

Fiat Doblò

Fiat Doblò

The Fiat Doblò is a panel van and leisure activity vehicle produced by Italian automaker Fiat since 2000. It was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October 2000. A second-generation Doblò succeeded the original vehicle in 2010 for most markets, and it was sold in the United States as the RAM ProMaster City from 2015 to 2022. The third-generation Doblò, a rebadged version of the Citroën Berlingo, was unveiled in June 2022.

Opel Meriva

Opel Meriva

The Opel Meriva is a car manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Opel on its Corsa platform, from May 2003 until June 2017 across two generations. Described as a mini MPV, it was marketed as the Vauxhall Meriva in the United Kingdom, while in Latin America, the first generation model was marketed as the Chevrolet Meriva.

Peugeot 206

Peugeot 206

The Peugeot 206 is a supermini car (B-segment) designed and produced by the French car manufacturer Peugeot since May 1998 as a replacement to the Peugeot 205. Developed under the codename T1, it was released in September 1998 in hatchback form, which was followed by coupé cabriolet in September 2000, station wagon in September 2001, and a sedan version in September 2005, before being replaced by the 207 in April 2006.

Basic utility vehicle

Basic utility vehicle

A basic utility vehicle (BUV) is a simple rugged vehicle designed for use in the developing world. A slew of such vehicles were developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s; most only reached limited production and market penetration, as used Western vehicles often proved cheaper. In Southeast Asia, these are often referred to as Asian utility vehicles (AUV). They have also been called basic transportation vehicles (BTV).

Body-on-frame

Body-on-frame

Body-on-frame, also known as ladder frame construction, is a common motor vehicle construction method, whereby a separate body or coach is mounted on a strong and relatively rigid vehicle frame or chassis that carries the powertrain and to which the wheels and their suspension, brakes, and steering are mounted. While this was the original method of building automobiles, body-on-frame construction is now used mainly for heavy trucks, pickups, and predominantly large SUVs.

Rear-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a form of engine and transmission layout used in motor vehicles, in which the engine drives the rear wheels only. Until the late 20th century, rear-wheel drive was the most common configuration for cars. Most rear-wheel drive vehicles feature a longitudinally-mounted engine at the front of the car.

Isuzu Panther

Isuzu Panther

The Isuzu Panther is a line of multi-purpose vehicle and pickup truck manufactured by Isuzu from 1991 until 2020 and developed in Indonesia for the Southeast Asian market. The second generation Panther was also manufactured and marketed in India under the name Chevrolet Tavera, a name which is also used in Indonesia for the petrol version until 2005. It was developed together with General Motors as the "160 Project".

Mitsubishi Freeca

Mitsubishi Freeca

The Mitsubishi Freeca is a compact MPV and pickup truck designed by Mitsubishi Motors and China Motor Corporation for the Asian market, and built in Taiwan, China, the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam where it is known as the Mitsubishi Adventure/Kuda/Jolie.

Source: "Minivan", Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, (2023, March 12th), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minivan.

Enjoying Wikiz?

Enjoying Wikiz?

Get our FREE extension now!

Download Extension

Further Reading

Van

Station wagon

Ford Windstar

Dodge Caravan

Mazda MPV

Mercury Villager

Crossover (automobile)

Ford Aerostar

Full-size car

Nissan Prairie

Nissan Quest

Bucket seat

Mini MPV

Compact MPV

Mitsubishi RVR

Ford Flex

M-segment

Chrysler minivans (NS)
References
  1. ^ "Ranked: 5 best-selling new minivans in the U.S. in 2020". AutomotiveMap. 10 August 2020. Retrieved 17 January 2021. No. 1 - Chrysler Pacifica (93,802 sold)
  2. ^ "minivan". Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus. Cambridge University Press. Retrieved 30 May 2017.
  3. ^ Taylor, Rich (February 1990). "The Light Vantastics". Popular Mechanics. 167 (2): 64. Retrieved 17 September 2020.
  4. ^ "Mass Transit". Popular Mechanics. 164 (11): 72. November 1987. Retrieved 17 September 2020.
  5. ^ "Our pick: Top 10 used mini-MPVs". Auto Trader. 3 August 2010. Archived from the original on 5 March 2012. Retrieved 28 February 2012.
  6. ^ Sorokanich, Robert (2 November 2013). "30 Years Ago Today, Chrysler Invented the Minivan, And Changed History". Gizmodo. Retrieved 2 May 2016.
  7. ^ "Definition of Minivan". merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 30 March 2019.
  8. ^ Patton, Phil (6 January 2008). "A Visionary's Minivan Arrived Decades Too Soon". The New York Times. Retrieved 6 September 2014.
  9. ^ Ernst, Kurt (11 July 2013). "Cars of Futures Past – Stout Scarab". Hemmings. Retrieved 26 July 2022.
  10. ^ "Revisiting Classics: The Stout Scarab". drivezing.com. 23 August 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2019.
  11. ^ "The Stout Scarab is the World's First Minivan, and the First Car with a Mustache". tflcar.com. 19 May 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2019.
  12. ^ Niedermeyer, Paul (29 March 2010). "The Mother Of All Modern Minivans: 1949 DKW Schnellaster". The Truth About Cars. Retrieved 2 December 2020.
  13. ^ Kindy, David (6 March 2020). "How the Volkswagen Bus Became a Symbol of Counterculture". Smithsonian Magazine. Retrieved 2 December 2020.
  14. ^ Mattews, Nigel (26 November 2014). "Fiat invented minivan concept with the Multipla". Driving Canada. Retrieved 2 December 2020.
  15. ^ "What is an MPV?". buyacar.co.uk. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  16. ^ Max, Josh (28 July 2020). "Five Minivans You Shouldn't Be Embarassed [sic] To Drive". Forbes. Retrieved 26 July 2022.
  17. ^ "Common Minivan Dimensions". J.D. Power. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  18. ^ "What's the Best Minivan or SUV for Towing a Travel Trailer?". Togo RV. 16 December 2020. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  19. ^ "US car sales analysis 2021 – Minivans". carsalesbase.com. 20 January 2022. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  20. ^ Tulumba, Chris. "2021 Canada Minivan Sales Figures By Model". goodcarbadcar.net. Retrieved 3 March 2022.
  21. ^ "Best New Minivans and Vans of 2022". Car and Driver. 4 February 2022. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  22. ^ a b "America on the Move - Dodge Caravan". Smithsonian Institution - National Museum of American History. Retrieved 2 May 2016.
  23. ^ Zatz, David (16 November 2020). "Creating the Plymouth, Dodge, and Chrysler Minivan: The Caravan/Voyager Development Story". Allpar. Retrieved 26 July 2022.
  24. ^ "The Ford Mustang and the minivan have an amazing shared history". Business Insider. Retrieved 31 March 2019.
  25. ^ "Coolest Minivans of All Time". autoblog.com. Retrieved 31 March 2019.
  26. ^ a b Stepler, Richard (February 1985). "New generation minivans". Popular Science. 226 (2): 74–75. Retrieved 2 May 2016.
  27. ^ a b Kurczewski, Nick (15 December 2016). "Driving Down Memory Lane in the Original Minivan". The New York Times. Retrieved 2 May 2017.
  28. ^ Lamm, Michael (April 1985). "PM drives GM's new minivan". Popular Mechanics. 162 (4): 48, 168. Retrieved 23 October 2018.
  29. ^ "Autotrader - page unavailable". autotrader.com. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  30. ^ "A Van By Any Other Name: Mitsubishi "Wagon"". oldmotors.net. 23 November 2019. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  31. ^ "Best of the Minivans". Kiplinger's Personal Finance. 44 (7): 41. July 1990. Retrieved 26 December 2015.
  32. ^ a b Eisenstein, Paul A. (10 May 2014). "'Mom mobiles' a shrinking category for automakers". CNBC. Retrieved 26 December 2015.
  33. ^ "Minivan Market Share Is Now at 2 Percent In America, and It's Rapidly Getting Worse". The Truth About Cars. 18 February 2020. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  34. ^ Neil, Dan (17 October 2007). "Head of the Family". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 29 July 2018.
  35. ^ Cheney, Peter (27 September 2011). "Minivans are perfect. Why do we hate them?". The Globe and Mail. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  36. ^ Bedard, Patrick (1 October 2001). "Kia Sedona". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  37. ^ "Kia Rondo found! And reviewed". Autoblog. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  38. ^ "2007 Kia Rondo". topspeed.com. 1 December 2006. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  39. ^ Barry, Keith. "Review: Mazda 5". Wired. ISSN 1059-1028. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  40. ^ "Ford cancels seven-passenger C-Max for U.S., focuses solely on Hybrid and Energi models". autoblog.com. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  41. ^ Healey, James R. "Test Drive: Ford C-Max is eco-licious fun". USA Today. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  42. ^ "Top 100 Cars 2014: Top 10 MPVs (people carriers)". Driving.co.uk from The Sunday Times. 25 October 2014. Retrieved 11 June 2022.
  43. ^ "History of Toyota's compact MPV models". mag.toyota.co.uk. 1 April 2015. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  44. ^ "What is an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)?". parkers.co.uk. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  45. ^ Lewin, Tony (2003). How to Design Cars Like a Pro: A Complete Guide to Car Design from the Top Professionals. Motorbooks International. ISBN 0-7603-1641-4.
  46. ^ "Renault Espace, this is your life". topgear.com. 23 April 2015. Retrieved 3 April 2019.
  47. ^ "The 100 ugliest cars: 20-1". telegraph.co.uk. 28 August 2008.
  48. ^ a b c "The reasons why full-size minivans don't sell in Europe". just-auto.com. 30 May 2000. Retrieved 17 September 2020.
  49. ^ "トヨタのミニバン" [Toyota minivans]. toyota.jp. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  50. ^ "【2022年】ミニバンおすすめ人気15選｜価格・スペック比較｜Motor-Fan[モーターファン]" [[2022] 15 Recommended Popular Minivans | Price / Spec Comparison]. car.motor-fan.jp. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  51. ^ a b c "ミニバン文化の発展（1994年）" [Development of minivan culture (1994)]. gazoo.com (in Japanese). 31 January 2014. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  52. ^ 交通タイムス社. "ミニバンのルーツは乗用車の派生モデル！欧州では戦前より登場" [The roots of the minivan are derivative models of passenger cars! Appeared in Europe before the war]. automesseweb.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  53. ^ "日本ミニバン界の始祖 初代エスティマが起こした革命" [The revolution caused by the first Estima, the founder of the Japanese minivan world]. 自動車情報誌「ベストカー」 (in Japanese). 10 February 2021. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  54. ^ Schefler, Jim (September 1983). "Toyota's mini-van". Popular Science. 223 (3): 123. Retrieved 23 October 2018.
  55. ^ "【エスティマ、オデッセイ…他】時代を変えた個性派「名」ミニバン6選" [[Estima, Odyssey ... etc.] 6 unique minivans that changed the times]. 自動車情報誌「ベストカー」 (in Japanese). 21 March 2020. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  56. ^ 交通タイムス社 (9 May 2020). "数多くのモデルが誕生！ トヨタ・グランエースへ続くトヨタが生み出したミニバンの歴史を辿る" [Many models are born! Tracing the history of Toyota-created minivans following the Toyota Granace]. webcartop.jp (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  57. ^ "ホンダ「オデッセイ」が27年の歴史に幕！「ミニバン」ブームの火付け役が残した功績とは". くるまのニュース (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  58. ^ "消えちゃいけないオデッセイが５代目にして消滅！ ミニバン市場をけん引した偉大なる１台の歴史とは | goo - 自動車" [The Odyssey that cannot disappear for the 5th generation! What is the history of one great car that drove the minivan market?]. goo自動車&バイク (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  59. ^ "ミニバンとは？ 他にはないミニバンの良さや最新人気車種をご紹介！（WEB CARTOP）". Yahoo!ニュース (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  60. ^ "第38回：ミニバン文化の発展 広さと走りの両立に挑んだ25年" [Development of minivan culture 25 years of striving to achieve both wideness and driving]. webcg.net (in Japanese). 6 December 2018. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  61. ^ "SUVのシェアがミニバン超えの3割に！ 勢力図が大変化した新車市場の今とは!?|コラム【MOTA】" [The share of SUVs exceeds 30% of minivans! What is the current state of the new car market, where the power map has changed dramatically?]. autoc-one.jp MOTA（旧オートックワン） (in Japanese). Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  62. ^ a b "여름 휴가의 이상적인 동반자, 국내서 만날 수 있는 MPV 6종" [The ideal companion for summer vacation, 6 MPVs that you can meet in Korea]. motoya.co.kr 모토야 (in Korean). 28 July 2021. Retrieved 7 March 2022.
  63. ^ a b "〈威尔〉赛那"姊妹车"来了，还会继续走"加价"路线吗『皇冠』？_新能源市场_零排放智能汽车网". 0car.top. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  64. ^ "Chinese-owned MPV brands see decline in market share - China.org.cn". china.org.cn. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  65. ^ "China: passenger car sales by model 2021". statista.com. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  66. ^ "Automotive Manufacturing Industry Indonesia". indonesia-investments.com. Netherlands. 2 April 2018. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  67. ^ "Gaikindo reveals five popular car brands in Indonesia in 2017". The Jakarta Post. Indonesia. 21 January 2018. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  68. ^ Elvira, Vina (4 November 2021). "Pangsa pasar segmen MPV capai 40%, ini kata Gaikindo". newssetup.kontan.co.id (in Indonesian). Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  69. ^ "MUV Cars". zigwheels.com. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  70. ^ "MPV Cars in India". autocarindia.com. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  71. ^ Punditz, Team Auto (8 April 2020). "MUV Sales in India for FY2020". autopunditz.com. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  72. ^ Punditz, Team Auto (4 April 2020). "FY2020 Car Sales in India – Snapshot". autopunditz.com. Retrieved 6 March 2022.
  73. ^ a b Patrascu, Daniel (13 February 2018). "PSA Previews New Generation Leisure Activity Vehicles (LAV)". autoevolution.com. Retrieved 21 October 2018.
  74. ^ "Ford Transit Courier: Small Fiesta-based van". topgear-autoguide.com. 4 September 2013. Retrieved 2 March 2022.
  75. ^ "Peugeot Rifter revealed as Citroen Berlingo Multispace sibling". autocar.co.uk. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  76. ^ Dieter (16 July 2018). "LAVs rise above their van origins and enter fleets". fleeteurope.com. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  77. ^ "From humble beginnings: The History of the Asian Utility Vehicle". c-magazine.com. 10 December 2021. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  78. ^ "The AUV: In the service of the Filipino - Feature Stories". autoindustriya.com. 12 June 2015. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  79. ^ "Adios, AUVs: The twilight of the 10-seaters is upon us". topgear.com.ph. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  80. ^ "AUV, MPV, or SUV: What are the differences?". .autodeal.com.ph. 26 April 2019. Retrieved 27 February 2022.
  81. ^ "3 Row SUV vs the Best Minivan: Which is Right For You?". agirlsguidetocars.com. 28 January 2022. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  82. ^ Radu, Vlad (30 April 2021). "A Minivan or a Three-Row SUV? Which Vehicle Is Better for Your Family?". autoevolution.com. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
  83. ^ "Minivan or SUV—Which Is Best for Big Families?". Motor Trend. 23 April 2020. Retrieved 4 March 2022.
Further media
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Minivans.
Videos
Categories

The content of this page is based on the Wikipedia article written by contributors..
The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike Licence & the media files are available under their respective licenses; additional terms may apply.
By using this site, you agree to the Terms of Use & Privacy Policy.
Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization & is not affiliated to WikiZ.com.