The ongoing battle between the minivan and third-row SUVs continues. We all know a mom that refuses to give into the van and those that fully embrace it. If you are trying to decide which one to go with, read on to see some of the pros and cons for both.
Cargo Space
2020 Chrysler Pacifica 
2020 Chevrolet Traverse
Minivans are low to the ground so they provide additional cargo space along with a deep cargo space provided behind the third row. If you are a parent that has younger kids that still require a stroller, you won’t need to life it as high to get it loaded. Lower to the ground means younger kids can help unload the years worth of toys, snacks, and bags they just had to take with them. The Kia Sedona, Chrysler Pacifica, and the Dodge Caravan, they all have at least 31 cubic feet of cargo space.
When it comes to SUVs, if you look at some of the larger SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, or the Cadillac Escalade, you will get at least 33 feet cubic feet of cargo space. Looking at mid-size SUVs, it will be 23 cubic feet or smaller behind the third row. The key is to think about how much you have to haul around and make your best decision from there.
Features and Capabilities
2020 Kia Sedona 
2020 Ford Explorer
Available seating options are similar across both minivans and SUVs. Both tend to have bucket seats up front and three-passenger bench seats in the second and third rows. In the larger SUVs, they can be configured to have a three seat bench in the second and third rows, allowing them to seat nine. A minivan cannot seat nine, so if you are looking for a nine passenger vehicle, a large SUV is the way to go.
Is a must have all-wheel drive? If that is the case, you will want to go to with an SUV. There have been discussions about adding all-wheel drive to minivans, but most of them do not offer it yet. If you are looking at fuel efficiency, minivans have a V-6 engine and they make between 24 mpg and 30 mpg on the highway. With the Pacifica Hybrid, you will most likely get a higher mpg on the highway before the electric runs out.
Many mid-size or large SUVs have V-8 engines, and the larger ones have an estimated 18-23 mpg. You do have the option of hybrid SUVs, which will deliver better fuel economy.
Parent Talk
2020 Chrysler Pacifica 
2020 Hyundai Palisade
When comes to the school drop off and pick up lines, they request that you do not get out of your vehicle to keep things moving smoothly. That is where the minivans automatic sliding door wins big! The minivan is convenient for parents and allows younger children to be a little more independent. As a parent, there is no shame in trying to make life a little easier!
Ultimately, it really comes down to preference. There are benefits to both minivans and SUVs, so look at the pros and cons and they come on in and take one for a test drive.
Shop our full inventory of Minivans and SUVs at McGrathAuto.com