Best Minivan

Brian Early

SPECIAL TO THE STAR

Industry pundits have been predicting the death of the minivan segment for several years at the hands of crossovers.

With just three entries this year – two of them basically spins on the same vehicle – it would seem that the automakers agree.

But hold on a moment. While Ford and GM are bowing out, numerous other minivans are only in the middle of their product cycles.

Hyundai's Entourage is in its second model year, but was unavailable in time for last year's event.

Crossovers have their own talents, but are hard-pressed to match the minivan's cargo/passenger versatility and value for money. Vans are likely to be around for a while yet.

CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY

This is the top model from the company known for its minivan talents, having been one of the originators of the breed.

A 251 hp 4.0 L V6, teamed with the segment's only six-speed automatic transmission, produced respectable 8.6-second 0-to-100 km/h sprints.

Unfortunately, the big six gets pretty vocal when you work it, a bit out of character with the T & C's luxury trappings and otherwise quiet, comfortable ride.

Chrysler's nifty Swivel 'n Go seating allows the (removable) second-row captain's chairs to be rotated to face the (folding) third-row bench. A small collapsible table can be mounted in the centre.

But four adults (or big kids) probably won't fit comfortably facing one another; legs soon tangle.

Price as tested: $44,170

DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

These testers were fairly basic, lacking even power sliding doors. But they had power windows for the first and second rows, power adjustable pedals and decent audio.

Also on-board was Chrysler's innovative Stow 'n Go seating system, which remains the only one providing a true fold-into-the-floor second row.

Grand Caravan's available 197 hp 3.8 L V6 was no match for the 4.0 L mill in the heavier T & C, even with the same six-speed automatic.

Price as tested: $31,945

HYUNDAI ENTOURAGE

Our Entourages were in the second-from-top GLS trim, the top line Limited adding a few extra features (power passenger seat, memory on the driver's seat, etc.).

Power comes from Hyundai's ubiquitous 3.8 L V6, producing 250 hp, mated to a slick five-speed automatic.

The 0-to-100 km/h test runs were accomplished in 8.9 seconds (only three-tenths behind the T&C).

Comfort is the name of the game, and the Entourage filtered minor pavement imperfections better than the Chrysler/Dodge twins.

The Hyundai can't match the seating flexibility of the other two, but its split/folding rear bench was more comfortable.

Price as tested: $37,495

More videos from Wheels.ca and our partners