Fuel-Saving Family Haulers: Which New Minivans Get the Best Gas Mileage?
While minivans are celebrated for their versatility, family-friendly features, and spacious interiors, their fuel efficiency has often lagged compared to smaller vehicles. However, recent advancements have brought more fuel-efficient options to the market, including hybrid models that help families save substantially on fuel expenses without sacrificing the space and comfort minivans are known for.
This article breaks down the latest minivans by their fuel economy, using EPA estimates to identify the most efficient choices. We’ll start with those that get the lowest mpg ratings and work our way to the top performers, highlighting the best options for families looking to maximize their savings at the pump.
Keep in mind that real-world driving conditions can affect your mileage.
2024 Kia Carnival
The 2024 Kia Carnival gets a combined EPA-estimated 22 mpg. This minivan gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, making it less fuel-efficient than some competitors. Despite this, the Carnival offers numerous attractive features. Its SUV-inspired styling distinguishes it from traditional minivans, and its spacious interior can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers.
Under the hood, the 2024 Kia Carnival features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All models come standard with front-wheel drive. The Carnival handles well and provides a smooth ride.
2024 Chrysler Pacifica
The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined. This minivan gets up to 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Its powerful V6 engine delivers refined acceleration, and the Pacifica offers a smooth ride.
Available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, the Pacifica has responsive handling. Front-wheel-drive models are rated at 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models achieve 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
2024 Honda Odyssey
The 2024 Honda Odyssey achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined, with 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Odyssey excels in other areas, with a smooth and quiet ride, making long trips more comfortable. It handles more like a sedan, with responsive steering and a refined driving experience.
The van has a capable V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and comes with front-wheel drive.
2024 Toyota Sienna
The 2024 Toyota Sienna is the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in minivan, with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. This is due to its hybrid powertrain, offering significant fuel savings. The Sienna’s hybrid system combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors.
Whether equipped with front- or all-wheel drive, the Sienna offers exceptional fuel efficiency for the minivan segment.
2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
As the only plug-in hybrid minivan, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 82 MPGe when operating in electric mode and 30 mpg combined in hybrid mode. With up to 32 miles of electric-only range, it’s the most efficient minivan available today.
The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combines a 3.6-liter V6 engine with an electric motor for strong acceleration, and it’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that enhances overall efficiency.
