In late 1983, Chrysler introduced the first minivan, forever changing the way American families traveled. The car became a household favorite and, according to Business Insider, minivan sales peaked at 1.4 million in 2000.
However, hard times came for minivans. The car became the butt of many jokes and was deemed “uncool” when newer and sleeker crossover SUVs took over the market.
Are you ready for all dad jokes? Don’t make me pull over this minivan. @RuPaulsDragRace
— Nina West (@NinaWest) February 26, 2019
But minivans are on the road to a comeback and selling today for about 8% above sticker price while cars, trucks and SUVs sold for sticker price, according to a new report from Cox Automotive.
Our family got our new minivan today. It has a ramp so I can get in and out on my own. It’s awesome. Thank you @BraunAbility and @TheMobilityMan for getting it to us so fast. pic.twitter.com/Vp6Dykq3Ih
— Henry Ullrich (@IamSuperHen) August 3, 2021
It seems that what attracted buyers to minivans in the first place — higher seats, sliding doors and bigger cargo space — are the same reasons behind the latest surge.
“For families, there are still few better vehicle choices than a minivan,” Matt Degen, a senior editor at Kelley Blue Book, said to CNN Business. “They’re just easier.”
if you can tell a good dad joke while driving a minivan it’s double points
— Dr. Shadowgazer (@DShadowgazer) March 23, 2021
Technology is another selling point for minivans; with video screens for backseat passengers and a variety of other entertainment features built in, the tech inside the ultimate family ride has come a long way since 2000.
Even the notion that minivans are “uncool” is changing. Where minivan cache may have previously deterred buyers, revamped designs from Toyota, Chrysler and Kia have put exciting new body styles into the marketplace.
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