Best Minivans For Gas Mileage | Endurance Warranty (2024)

Car shoppers are more interested in eco-friendly vehicles than ever before. Although electric vehicles are finally finding their stride in the United States, many family car buyers are still choosing gas vehicles due to high purchase prices and a lack of family-friendly EV options. Minivans continue to have their niche in the family market since they are typically cheaper than their SUV counterparts, but they still offer plenty of space, comfort, and safety features.

Let’s take a look at the best minivans for gas mileage for 2024:

The Increased Need For Fuel-Efficient Minivans

A recent study of U.S. driving habits shows that Americans spend more time in their vehicles than ever before — even more than pre-pandemic records. This increase in time behind the wheel, mixed with volatile gas prices and increasing concern for the environment, is resulting in a higher number of consumers (more than 51% of car shoppers) looking for eco-friendly vehicles that can get them to their destinations. In fact, fuel efficiency consistently ranks as one of the top five features listed by new car shoppers today.

Families and Fuel Costs

Families, in particular, are keenly aware of fuel costs since they spend more time on the road than most other drivers, especially those with children under legal driving age. Between commuting to work, school, appointments, extracurriculars, family vacations, and errands, families spend a huge amount of their family time in the car together.

For families, having the best minivan with the best MPG saves on the budget and provides safe and reliable transportation for all of their daily activities.

The Top Fuel-Efficient Minivans of 2024

There are a few factors to consider when shopping for a fuel-efficient van that fits your family’s needs. In addition to the manufacturer’s reliability reputation, cost, and fuel efficiency ratings, you’ll also want to weigh the engine type, transmission, and any additional fuel-efficient features that may boost your average mile per gallon (MPG) rating. For example, a van with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) often gets better gas mileage than traditional automatic transmissions.

Comparing the specs of the leading makes and models will help you find the best minivan with the best fuel economy for your needs and lifestyle. Let’s take a look at the most fuel-efficient minivans of 2024:

2024 Toyota Sienna

When the Toyota Sienna was first released in 1998, it was known as the “Camry of Minivans” since it was designed to be a larger version of the automaker’s ever-popular Camry. Since then, the Sienna has only been redesigned a few times, and the 2024 version is a part of the fourth generation introduced in 2021 when the Toyota Sienna became solely available on a hybrid powertrain. Sienna owners still love the agile car-like handling and exceptional comfort features.

Starting Cost: $37,685
Gas Mileage (city/highway/combined): 36/36/36
Range in Miles (city/highway): 648.0/648.0 miles
Engine Specifications: Inline 4 2.5 L Hybrid
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
Seating: 8 seats

Features: The Toyota Sienna is ideal for families thanks to its abundance of seating, sliding rear doors, and industry-leading fuel rating. The adjustable driver’s seat allows you to sit behind the wheel for extended periods of time. Plus, your passengers will enjoy creature comforts, such as ottoman-style footrests in the second-row seating and four different climate control zones, one more than most competitors.

The 2024 Sienna comes equipped with the latest technology and driver’s assistance features, including:

Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Lane keep assist
Rear cross-traffic alert

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica is the only minivan on the market with a plug-in hybrid option. For Pacifica hybrid owners who frequently charge up, it is a great way to boost fuel efficiency since it can drive up to 32 miles on battery power alone. The Pacifica will automatically switch to gas power once the battery power gets low. In addition to excellent fuel economy, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV is chock full of the latest technology, safety features, and ample passenger room and cargo space.

2024 Honda Odyssey

The 2024 Honda Odyssey is another popular family minivan with great gas mileage. As another minivan that has been around since the 90s, the Odyssey has a strong fan base thanks, at least in part, to Honda’s notable reliability rating. However, with excellent fuel economy ratings, perky acceleration, advanced engine technology, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a slew of safety features, the 2024 model is at its peak performance. After 30 years of sales in the United States, the Odyssey is still an impressive contender.

Starting Cost: $38,240
Gas Mileage: 19/28/22
Range in Miles: 370.5/546.0 miles
Engine Specifications: V6 3.5L Gas Engine
Transmission: 10-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded Gasoline
Seating: 8

Features: While the 2024 Odyssey gets less-than-stellar average gas mileage for minivans, it has more horsepower and an array of eye-catching features. One notable family-friendly minivan feature exclusive to the Odyssey is the Magic Slide seats, which allow for a multitude of seat configurations for the second row—a feature that genuinely matters to families. Another notable family feature is the optional cabin intercom upgrade, which broadcasts the user’s voice to the third row through the speakers, reducing the need for shouting and reducing road distractions.

For families trying to minimize their fuel consumption, the Odyssey comes standard with an engine stop-start system that turns the vehicle off at stoplights to reduce fuel usage, a feature that can also be disabled if you’d prefer. It also comes standard with advanced safety features, including:

Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Lane keep assistance
Rear cross-traffic alerts
Driver attention alerts

2024 Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival is a relative newcomer to the minivan market. Still, it’s making a name for itself, especially with families that can appreciate a minivan’s family-friendly features but want an SUV’s sportier look. The 2024 Kia Carnival comes with a strong 290 hp V6 engine and a blocky, SUV-esque exterior to satisfy a mild longing for a fuel-efficient SUV, but the sliding doors and roomy interior satisfy the needs of any minivan-loving family.

Starting Cost: $33,600
Gas Mileage: 19/26/22
Range in Miles: 361.0/494.0 miles
Engine Specifications: V6 3.5L Gas Engine
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
Seating: 7

Features: Although it isn’t the most fuel-efficient minivan, the 2024 Kia Carnival has much to offer and is still a van with great gas mileage. Its distinctively stylish exterior is paired with ample standard features, making it a worthy option. With the optional upgrades, the Carnival becomes one of the more luxurious options on our list. The Carnival features impressive storage space, fully adjustable front seats, nearly 2 USB ports for every passenger, impressive tech, and an array of standard safety features. Some noteworthy features include:

Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Lane keep assistance
Rear cross-traffic alert
Driver attention alert

The Benefits of Fuel-Efficient Minivans

Choosing the most fuel-efficient minivan that fits your lifestyle can save you money on fuel costs and improve your traveling experiences while reducing your impact on the environment.

Lower Fuel Costs

A minivan with great gas mileage is an immediate money saver by reducing how often you need to stop by the gas station. Not only can you keep your money in your wallet a little longer, over time, the fuel savings can add up to hundreds of dollars per year. A more fuel efficient vehicle saves time and money, allowing you to spend it on other areas of your life.

For example, if you drive, on average, 10,000 miles per year (although the national average is actually higher, at 13,476 miles annually) with a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon, you’ll use approximately 334 gallons of fuel. If you buy 334 gallons over the year at $3.50 per gallon, you’ll spend $1,169 annually.

However, if your vehicle gets only 25 MPG, you’ll need approximately 400 gallons to go the same 10,000 miles. If you buy 400 gallons of gasoline annually at $3.50 per gallon, your gas bill will be $1,400, a cost difference of $231 in just one year with only a 5 MPG difference in fuel ratings. In five years, the length of a common car financing loan is already $1,155 extra, with less driving than the national average.

Fewer Refueling Stops

There’s nothing worse than having everyone resting peacefully on a long road trip only to glance down at the gas gauge to find out that you will have to stop soon. Every gas station pit stop on a road trip involves bathroom breaks, snack debates, and the struggle for everyone to get comfortable again.

A fuel-efficient minivan can do more than save money on long road trips. For families and frequent travelers, a higher MPG rating also means that you can let sleeping babies sleep longer while you squeeze in a few more miles and are that much closer to your destination. After all, you’re still trying to make better time than the GPS ETA, right?

Reduced Environmental Impacts

If you live in an area with strict environmental restrictions, fuel-efficient vehicles can help you meet emissions testing standards. Reduced fuel consumption typically means less emissions. In the bigger picture, using less gas lessens our overall dependency on fossil fuels, which reduces our carbon footprint.

Features that Enhance Fuel Efficiency

While the latest vehicle technologies are nice, which features should you look for that help you save money by contributing to better fuel efficiency?

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Technology

Hybrid minivans or plug-in hybrid vans can save you a significant amount of money. These vehicles maximize their fuel consumption and stretch out times between gas stops by using both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric one.

While it isn’t necessarily gas-related, it is also noteworthy that hybrid vehicles can save new vehicle buyers money in other areas. Hybrid cars and plug-in hybrid vehicles save money on gas costs and maintenance costs by requiring fewer oil changes and brake pad replacements, thanks to their regenerative braking features. Plus, new car buyers qualify for tax incentives if they buy a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle, like a Tesla.

Aerodynamic Design

There’s a reason why more vehicles today have softer, rounded edges and less blocky designs — they’re more fuel efficient. A car with sleek, smooth exterior edges allows the surrounding air to glide right over the vehicle while operating. The air can easily pass over the vehicle’s body, reducing drag and enhancing fuel efficiency.

You can also make your vehicle more aerodynamic by removing bulky obstructions, such as roof racks, cargo carriers, and bike racks. Even closing your car windows while driving at high speeds can help.

Advanced Engine Management Systems

Advanced Engine Management Systems (EMS) use a handful of different technologies to maximize your vehicle’s performance and minimize fuel consumption. These technologies optimize fuel delivery, reducing emissions and improving your vehicle’s performance. Some gas-saving technologies to consider are:

Direct Fuel Injection (DFI)
Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Turbocharging or Supercharging
Variable Cylinder Management (VCM)
Start-Stop Systems
Electric Hybrid Systems
Advanced Engine Control Units (ECU)

Tips to Save Gas and Increase Fuel Efficiency

Although buying a minivan with the best gas mileage is a good start, there are other things you can do to save gas and increase your fuel efficiency in a minivan or any vehicle you decide to purchase.

Use Cruise Control When Possible

Maintaining a constant driving speed is always best to get the most out of your gas mileage. Your vehicle uses more gas to accelerate, so keeping an average speed and driving without weaving will naturally stretch a tank of gas.

If you find a long stretch of straight road, the cruise control can help you maintain a constant speed. Just be sure not to use it at too slow a speed, as it may burn more gas than it saves. For most makes and models, the optimal speed for cruise control is between 55 and 70 MPH.

Avoid Heavy Traffic

Heavy traffic requires frequent stopping. Frequent stopping and starting use more fuel and lower your fuel efficiency. Avoid driving during peak travel times or take a different route to save gas and driving frustration.

Minimize Idle Times

Idling uses approximately ½ a gallon of fuel per hour, which may not seem like a lot, but it adds up over time. Idling at traffic lights, in the parking lot on lunch break, with your remote start, or even finishing up your phone call or favorite song before going into the house can unnecessarily use several gallons of gas throughout the week. Avoiding idling or using features like a start-stop system can help your fuel last longer.

Reduce Vehicle Weight

When a vehicle is heavy, it requires more energy to get moving – which means burning more fuel. While you can’t control the natural weight of your vehicle, you can avoid towing trailers unnecessarily and unpacking after long road trips. Reducing or even eliminating excess weight can boost your MPG.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

According to the Department of Energy, reckless driving can reduce your gas mileage by up to 40% in stop-and-go city driving and 30% on highways. Not only that, but aggressive drivers also account for approximately 30% of all traffic accidents. Aggressive driving doesn’t always look like road rage, either. Aggressive driving behaviors that can impact your gas mileage include:

Speeding
Following too closely
Make sudden turns
Weaving in and out of traffic
Hard braking
Accelerating too quickly

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

If you’re looking to maximize your fuel efficiency in a van, keeping up with your van’s maintenance is essential. Following a routine vehicle maintenance schedule for your van keeps it running smoothly and can improve your van’s MPG rating. Upkeep and preventative maintenance can reduce wear and tear, keeping your vehicle from working harder than it has to, which reduces the amount of gas it burns. Regular fuel-saving maintenance includes:

Maintain proper tire pressure.
Check wheel alignment
Regular oil changes with the recommended motor oil
Changing air filters
Take care of necessary car repairs immediately

Protect Your Minivan with an Extended Warranty

If your check engine light is on, your vehicle is noticeably out of tune, or needs attention, it can put additional strain on your car, causing it to burn extra fuel unnecessarily and potentially cause long-term, irreparable, or catastrophic damage. Therefore, making any necessary vehicle repairs as soon as possible is essential. Unfortunately, budget constraints often are cost prohibitive of surprise car repair bills, resulting in delayed repairs.

Auto protection plans, also known as extended vehicle warranties, are a great way to get your used car repairs taken care of on a budget. An extended car warranty for minivans covers the costs of unexpected repairs, so you can keep your vehicle running at its best for years to come, ensuring you and your family don’t miss a beat of your daily routine.

With customizable coverage plans, drivers can choose the best vehicle coverage for their minivans. Choose from comprehensive coverage plans that rival bumper-to-bumper factory warranties, limited powertrain warranties that cover all of your van’s essential parts, or a plan that falls somewhere in between. You can decide which vehicle parts coverage matters most and which plan fits your budget.

The financial safety net of a vehicle service contract provides car owners with peace of mind that their vehicle will be taken care of when it matters most. Also, with third-party extended warranty providers like Endurance Warranty, you are protected by an umbrella of additional perks. Every Endurance Warranty plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance, lockout services, towing, trip interruption coverage, and rental car reimbursem*nt. These ensure that you and your family are never stranded on the side of the road.

Endurance customers also have the option to maximize their savings by activating a year’s worth of Endurance Elite Benefits.* Perks like tire repair or replacement, collision discounts, and key fob replacements give you another layer of protection for you and your family on the road ahead.

Increase Your Fuel Efficiency with Endurance Warranty

A fuel-efficient minivan and a reliable extended car warranty can free up money for the things that matter most.Call (800) 253-8203 to speak to a friendly Endurance plan advisoror request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your auto protection plan recommendations and get pricing now.

For more information on the best cars for your family, advice on shopping for an extended warranty, and automotive FAQs, visit the Endurance blog.