Editing Minivan (section)

== 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 (ie. Toyota Sienna,<ref>{{Cite web |title=2025 Toyota Sienna Minivan {{!}} 7-8 Seater Minivan |url=https://www.toyota.ca/toyota/en/vehicles/sienna/overview |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=Toyota Canada |language=en}}</ref> Toyota Previa,<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.autoevolution.com/cars/toyota-previa-1992.html#aeng_toyota-previa-1992-24i-4at-awd-132-hp | title=TOYOTA Previa Specs, Performance & Photos - 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 }}</ref> Chrysler Pacifica <ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan {{!}} Chrysler Canada |url=https://www.chrysler.ca/en/pacifica/2024 |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=Chrysler |language=en}}</ref>). Alongside adopting 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 [[Chevrolet Lumina APV|General Motors APV minivans]] being exceptions).

Minivans/MPVs are produced on distinct chassis architecture or share platforms with other vehicles such as sedans and [[crossover SUV]]s. Minivans do not have as much ground clearance, towing capacity, or off-road capability compared to SUVs.<ref name="Trompete" /> Minivans provide more space for passengers and cargo than sedans and SUVs.<ref name="Trompete">{{cite web|url= https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/suv-vs-minivan/ |title=SUV or Minivan: Which Should You Choose? |first=Tara |last=Trompete |date=13 October 2023 |work=Kelly Blue Book |access-date=17 May 2024}}</ref>

=== Body style ===
[[File:Honda Odyssey Touring flickr Upsilon Andromedae DEC2008.jpg|thumb|Side profile of a [[Honda Odyssey (North America)|Honda Odyssey]]]]

Minivans/MPVs use either a [[Car body configurations#Two-box design|two-box]] or a [[Car body configurations#One-box design|one-box]] body design with [[Pillar (car)|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.<ref>{{cite web |title=What is an MPV? |url= https://www.buyacar.co.uk/cars/family-cars/mpvs/1139/what-is-an-mpv |access-date=2022-03-04 |website=buyacar.co.uk}}</ref>

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 (NS)|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 ===
[[File:2015-03-03 Geneva Motor Show 3391.JPG|thumb|A cutaway [[Renault Espace#5|Renault Espace V]], showcasing its relatively flat floor and third-row seat space]]

Most minivans have a reconfigurable interior to carry passengers and their effects. 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 (North America)|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 [[Chrysler Voyager#Stow'n Go seating|fold-flat second-row seats]] in 2005.

High-end minivans may include distinguished features such as captain seats or [[Ottoman (furniture)|Ottoman seats]], as opposed to [[bench seat]]s for the second row.<ref>{{cite web |last=Max |first=Josh |title=Five Minivans You Shouldn't Be Embarrassed &#91;sic&#93; To Drive |url= https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshmax/2020/07/28/five-minivans-you-shouldnt-be-embarassed-to-drive/ |date=28 July 2020 |work=Forbes |access-date=26 July 2022}}</ref>
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