You would not necessarily link family vans to being “sporty.” They are characterized by their comfort, grace, and safety features for long drives. However, some family vans deliver these features with a unique blend, merging practicality with performance. They are sought after for their interior or rugged body and impressive power display. These vans have redefined their conventional purpose and risen as innovative vehicles that provide a thrilling driving experience. Here are 17 surprisingly sporty family vans.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is surprisingly sporty for a minivan with its hybrid powertrain. The two electric motors, in combination with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, produce around 260 horsepower. The responsive steering wheel, all-wheel drive, and well-tuned handling give it enough stability. It is one of the most fuel-efficient minivans in the industry, with a combined fuel economy of 84 MPGe. From advanced safety features to a comfortable interior, this vehicle packs a punch.
Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey is relatively sporty, with additional customizations and powerups at different trim levels. The aerodynamic design with front and rear bumpers has a sporty feel. In terms of performance, the Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine which produces 280 horsepower. The Honda Sensing caters to the safety of all the passengers, while the infotainment and CabinWatch are installed for entertainment.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna XSE trim enhances and upgrades the car to a new level of sportiness. It even comes with a sport-tuned suspension system for handling and smoother driving dynamics. The interior is packed with SofTex sports seats, including Split & Stow third-row seats. In terms of its engine, the hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motors to produce sub-280 range horsepower.
Kia Carnival
Leaning more on the athletic side, the Kia Carnival has an SUV-inspired design, breaking away from the conventional boxy van design. It features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a competitive 290 horsepower in the minivan category. Having an all-wheel drive for smooth handling does not compromise comfort and grace. The interior has a 12.3-inch digital gauge, offering seats for seven passengers. Other innovative features include smart power sliding doors and one-touch open/close functionality.
Ford Transit Connect
Facing criticism for its handling, the Ford Transit Connect comes off as a fast and sharp family van. It is powered by a peppy 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offers enough cargo space and ample room inside the interior, marked by the latest SYNC 3 infotainment system. Families may not worry about safety because blind spot monitoring, driver assistance, and pre-collision avoid any accidents, even in tight spaces.
Mercedes-Benz Metris
One of the most luxurious family vans in the industry, the Mercedes-Benz Metris proves itself with extreme performance and grace. It has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The rear-wheel driver paves the way for the vehicle on all surfaces, be they rigged or slippery. Ideal for family trips and getaways, this van blends luxury with affordability.
Volkswagen Multivan
For a sporty feeling, the Volkswagen Multivan offers many engine variations, including a 2.0-liter TDI engine that produces 199 horsepower. There is also the plug-in hybrid option, which enhances the performance even further and delivers smoother driving dynamics. People who want to experience such sporty options may opt for various trims or dynamic chassis control with lowered suspension. From comfort to safety features, the Volkswagen Multivan is a vehicle that will satisfy you.
Chrysler Voyager
Offering a reasonably powerful engine, the Chrysler Voyager is a dominating family fan featuring a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 287 horsepower. This, combined with an all-wheel drive, makes this minivan a beast in all terrains and weather conditions. The interior is characterized by Stow ‘n Go seating, a practical choice with ample cargo space. Other family-friendly features are the rear park assist, blind spot monitoring for safety, and parking in tight spaces.
Nissan NV3500
The primary function of the Nissan NV3500 is naturally maximum cargo space, but its 5.6-liter V8 delivers performance. It produces around 375 horsepower and 387 lb-ft of torque combined with a towing capacity of 8700 lbs. It can accommodate around 10 to 12 passengers and has features such as vehicle dynamic control and rear-wheel drive. It neatly blends performance and utility, emerging as one of the best sporty family vans.
Ram ProMaster City
This may be an underrated pick, but for its price tag, there is enough power to come off as sporty in this category. The 2.4-liter Tigershark engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivers around 178 horsepower. It provides everything the huge vans consist of in a compact size, easier to move around in the city. A leading vehicle for its utility and performance, the Ram ProMaster City is ideal for everyday use.
Peugeot Traveller
The availability of a powerful diesel engine enhances the performance and overall appeal of the Peugeot Traveller. It has a 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel engine and delivers around 180 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The acceleration and handling are commendable for a minivan, credited to the independent suspension and Electro-hydraulic power steering. It can seat up to nine passengers and includes adaptive cruise control, emergency brakes, and lane keeping for safety.
Hyundai Staria
Available in different engine variations, families may choose a faster or more balanced version to suit their needs. These include a 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 175 horsepower or a 3.5-liter GDI V6 delivering 290 horsepower. The Staria also comes with a speed mode, which is available with the 8-speed automatic transmission. It does not compensate for comfort but offers comfortable seats, a 10.25 digital gauge, and a rear entertainment system.
Citroën SpaceTourer
A charming yet sporty family van, the Citroën SpaceTourer has a robust 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel engine that delivers around 177 horsepower. There is also the option of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, delivering 210 horsepower with certain upgrades and trims. It is loved by many for its versatility, consisting of safety features such as adaptive cruise control and a heads-up display. The stylish and distinctive front grille further compliments the Citroën SpaceTourer, which is able to seat eight passengers.
Renault Trafic
The Renault Trafic draws the line between sheer performance and its affordability, a great family van that is surprisingly sporty. With a sports trim level and various performance upgrades, the default 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine also gives a dynamic feel. The interior is spacious enough to seat nine passengers alongside an EasyLink infotainment system. It is ideal for getaways, be it adaptive cruise control or efforts to capitalize on fuel efficiency.
Opel Zafira Life
A perfect family van for those seeking practicality with a touch of sportiness, the sophisticated Opel Zafira Life can seat up to nine passengers. Some trims, combined with the driver assistance features, may boost the handling and driving dynamics. Equipped with a 2.0-liter diesel engine, this van produces around 177 horsepower. The luxurious interior offers enough legroom, enormous storage capability, and movable seats.
Fiat Talento
Initially sold in 1981, the Fiat Talento has etched its name in history as one of the best family vans. In terms of its engine, it offers a 2.0-liter diesel engine, which produces a maximum of 175 horsepower. The second generation of this, sold in 2016, has been undergoing a few upgrades to enhance comfort. It can seat up to nine passengers and has a Uconnect infotainment system and many safety features.
Chevrolet Express
Also known as the GMC Savana, this vehicle has stood the test of time and has been in production since 1996. It is surprisingly sporty, with a superior 6.6-liter V8 engine that produces a mighty 410 horsepower. It can accommodate around 15 passengers, which makes it perfect for road trips and short adventures. The 4.3L V6 engine is also available for everyday use and functionality.
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