Why Chrysler Says There Is A Minivan 'Resurgence'

At the 2026 New York Auto Show, Chrysler unveiled a refreshed version of its minivan, which Dodge and Chrysler brand CEO Matt McAleer described as setting the standard for luxury in its segment. Despite this, many industry observers view Chrysler's focus on a single product, the minivan, as a sign that the brand is struggling. McAleer stated that Chrysler parent company Stellantis plans to share future plans for the brand at its Investor Day on May 21st. McAleer also emphasized that the minivan segment is more robust than commonly perceived, noting its increasing popularity. He mentioned that the segment grew from 2023 to 2024 and is forecasted to continue growing this year, indicating a resurgence. Edmunds analyst Ivan Drury, while cautious about using the term "resurgence," agreed that the market for minivans is better than their polarizing image suggests, especially for cost-conscious or practical customers. Minivan market share in the US has ticked up from a low of 1.7% in 2017 to 2.4% in 2025. Although still a small portion of the new car market, this is only half a percentage point below large SUVs, their closest competitors in terms of seating capacity. Drury highlighted several advantages of minivans: they sell quickly, with turnaround times comparable to popular models like the Jeep Wrangler and even shorter for the Toyota Sienna. Minivans also have lower leasing rates and higher resale values because the used market isn't oversaturated with off-lease vehicles. The appeal of minivans lies in their high value proposition, offering excellent functionality per dollar. While they lack the ground clearance or off-road capabilities of trucks or three-row SUVs, many buyers don't require these features. Minivans provide ample covered storage, and Chrysler's design allows both second and third-row seats to stow completely into the floor. Their lower ride height and sliding doors also make them easier to access. McAleer suggested that for families with more than two children, a minivan is a far more functional and cost-effective choice than a large, expensive SUV. Chrysler also showcased the Grizzly Peak concept van at the auto show, hinting that some of its features, like knobby tires and a roof rack, might appear in future production models, emphasizing the brand's commitment to offering unique value to consumers.