Fuel-Saving Family Haulers: Which New Minivans Get the Best Gas Mileage?
Minivans are renowned for their practicality, family-friendly features, and spacious interiors. However, fuel efficiency hasn’t always been their strong suit compared to smaller vehicles. Their size and weight often translate into more frequent stops at the gas station. Fortunately, automakers have responded with more fuel-efficient options, including hybrid models, to help families reduce fuel costs without sacrificing space or comfort.
This article highlights the latest minivans ranked by fuel economy, using EPA estimates to guide our choices, beginning with models that get the lowest mpg ratings and progressing to the top performers. Keep in mind that real-world driving conditions may influence the actual mileage you experience. Which minivans will help you drive farther between fill-ups? Let’s find out.
2024 Kia Carnival
The 2024 Kia Carnival achieves a combined EPA-estimated 22 mpg (19 mpg city/26 mpg highway). While not the top choice for maximizing fuel savings, the Carnival offers many other appealing features. Its SUV-inspired styling distinguishes it from traditional minivans, and its spacious interior comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers. The Carnival houses a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard on all models.
2024 Chrysler Pacifica
The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica delivers EPA-estimated mileage up to 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city/28 mpg highway). Available in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, the Pacifica offers responsive handling for a minivan of its size. Front-wheel-drive models are EPA-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 a combined EPA-estimated 22 mpg (19 mpg city/28 mpg highway), placing it on par with several other minivans. The Odyssey provides a smooth and quiet ride, making long trips more comfortable. The Odyssey handles more like a sedan with responsive steering and a refined driving experience. This minivan also offers family-friendly features.
2024 Toyota Sienna
The 2024 Toyota Sienna, thanks to its hybrid powertrain, earns an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, making it the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in minivan available. With its hybrid system combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, the Sienna delivers smooth performance for both everyday driving and long road trips.
2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
As the only plug-in hybrid minivan on the market, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 82 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when operating in electric mode and 30 mpg combined in hybrid mode. This plug-in hybrid system is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that enhances efficiency. With up to 32 miles of electric-only range, the Pacifica Hybrid’s powertrain makes it the most efficient minivan currently available.
