9 Legit Minivan Alternatives (and a Bonus Option) When You. Just. Can’t.

The Minivan Turns 35 - Happy Birthday To The People Mover
There's nothing like a minivan for a family vacation. Credit: Bert Anderson

I get it. You NEED the space to install car seats and kiddos. A double stroller, baby gear and the Costco haul all have to fit. And road trips. You need to fit everyone, their luggage, beach gear, games, toys and snacks and not be packed to the roof (because, there’s shopping on the way, too).

A minivan, with typically about 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 3rd row, would solve so many issues but … you just can’t do it. You can’t give over your sense of style, or forgo the feeling of muscular confidence that your SUV gives you. I lived in those shoes, and I understand. A minivan, as much as I love and respect them, wasn’t for me either. But could I find a minivan alternative?

This story is 100% human researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks.

Yes, There are Lots of Options, But Drawbacks, Too

A Side Profile Of The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Credit: Erica Mueller

The OG Minivan Alternative: Chevrolet Traverse

A Side View Of The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Credit: Scotty Reiss

The SUV I Wished For: Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Which Has A Third Row. Photo_ Scotty Reiss
Credit: Scotty Reiss

This May Be the Coolest Minivan Alternative: Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Parked In A Shady Spot With Green Trees In The Background
Credit: Kristen Brown

The 2024 GMC Acadia Grew Up Into a Minivan Alternative

2024 Gmc Acadia Featured Image
Credit: Scotty Reiss

Seeing the Need for a Minivan Alternative, Toyota Added Grand Highlander

The New Face Of The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
Credit: Scotty Reiss

Our Favorite Zoomie Goes Bigger: Mazda CX-90

Hybrid Suvs 3-Row Suvs
Credit: Jana Askeland

The Chicest Minivan Alternative: Buick Enclave

The 2025 Buick Enclave
Credit: Scotty Reiss

If Luxury Is More Your Style, the Lexus TX Delivers

Hybrid Suvs 3-Row Suvs
Credit: Scotty Reiss

The All-Electric Minivan Option Kia EV9

The 2024 Kia Ev9
Credit: Scotty Reiss

The Un-Minivan: VW ID. Buzz

The 2025 Vw Id Buzz
Credit: Scotty Reiss
Journalist, entrepreneur and mom. Expertise includes new cars, family cars, 3-row SUVs, child passenger car seats and automotive careers ... More about Scotty Reiss
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