When shopping for a minivan, one crucial decision is whether to opt for all-wheel drive (AWD) or stick with front-wheel drive (FWD). While AWD may seem like a safer choice, especially in snowy regions, it’s essential to consider whether you truly need it.
The utility of AWD largely depends on your location and the quality of snow removal in your area. According to Bruzek, “Minivans have inherent qualities that may make AWD more of a ‘nice-to-have’ than other body styles, at least for shoppers who live in flat areas with good snow removal.” These qualities include their heavy weight, which aids traction, and their front-drive layout, which positions the engine and transmission’s weight over the drive wheels for additional grip.
Choosing AWD can have significant implications. For instance, it can add hundreds of pounds to a minivan’s curb weight, affecting its performance. During our comparison, the AWD Pacifica felt sluggish compared to its FWD counterparts, the Odyssey and Carnival. The ID. Buzz also sees a weight increase of about 200 pounds when opting for AWD over rear-wheel drive. Interestingly, the Sienna remains unaffected in terms of curb weight whether you choose FWD or AWD.
One of the most compelling reasons to opt for FWD is the cost savings. FWD minivans can save you thousands of dollars compared to their AWD equivalents. For example, the 2025 Pacifica starts at $44,145 with FWD, a significant difference from the $47,140 price tag for its AWD base version. Similarly, the 2025 Sienna’s base LE model starts at $40,635 with FWD, with AWD adding a $2,000 premium. Among FWD minivans, the 2025 Carnival is the most affordable, starting at $38,235, followed by the 2025 Odyssey at $43,670. The ID. Buzz, while more expensive, starts at $61,545 for the base RWD trim, with AWD available on the Pro S Plus trim for $70,540.
Ultimately, the decision between AWD and FWD should be based on your specific needs and circumstances. If you live in an area with good snow removal and prioritize cost-effectiveness, FWD might be the way to go. However, if you frequently drive in harsh winter conditions, AWD might be worth the extra investment.
