Compare 2010 Most Fuel-Efficient Minivans
If you're interested in a hybrid family hauler, then be prepared to invest in an SUV. While automakers have been quick to work hybrid technology into the SUV segment (Ford Escape Hybrid, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, etc.), they've been dragging their heels when it comes to minivans. While hybrid minivans may begin hitting dealerships in the next few years, the 2010 minivan lineup is reserved solely for traditional gas technology.
The majority of 2010 minivans earn similar gas mileage (somewhere around 20 mpg combined). However, the most fuel-efficient 2010 minivans are detailed below:
Big surprise – one of the smallest minivans on the market is also the most fuel-efficient. More the size of a wagon than a minivan, the 2010 MAZDA5 with manual transmission beats out the rest of the pack with 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Though small, the MAZDA5 still boasts three rows of seating. It is also perhaps the sportiest minivan (both in terms of look and feel) for 2010. Good alternatives to the MAZDA5 can be found in the wagon segment, including the 2010 Volkwagen Passat Wagon and 2010 Subaru Outback.
2010 Chrysler Town & Country (20 mpg combined)
The 2010 Chrysler Town & Country ties with three other vehicles for the runner-up slot for minivan fuel efficiency. The 2010 Town & Country is seen as a versatile minivan that delivers a comfortable drive. Swivel 'n Go seats and Stow 'n Go technology provides unique storage and seating arrangements. Compare the Chrysler to the similarly equipped 2010 Honda Odyssey and 2010 Toyota Sienna before making your decision. Fuel efficiency with an automatic transmission is 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
With a base MSRP below $23,000, the 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan is one of the most affordable fuel-efficient minivans for the year. It also benefits from an extra large (dare I say "grand?") cargo area and exceptional safety features. The vehicle is similar to its Chrysler stable mate, but eliminates a few amenities in favor of pricing. The base engine (which is the same one found on the Town & Country) may be a bit underpowered for some, but the 2010 Grand Caravan is an all-around solid minivan that would be well suited for most families. Paired with an automatic transmission, the Dodge Grand Caravan earns 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
2010 Honda Odyssey (20 mpg combined)
Like its closest competitors, the 2010 Honda Odyssey delivers 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Though more expensive than both the Chrysler and Dodge minivans, the Honda Odyssey offers one of the best total packages of any 2010 minivan. Engine performance is top-notch, and vehicle comfort, fit and finish all combine to create one heck of a minivan. Crash test scores are also stellar.
The 2010 Routan is the result of a collaboration between Volkswagen and Chrysler. As such, the vehicle boasts similar engine performance and layout as the Chrysler Town & Country. However, VW has infused a bit of its own personality into the Routan, and the result is a slightly classier vehicle. Style is a big bonus with the 2010 VW Routan, as is engine performance. As with the rest of the silver medal winners for 2010, the Routan offers 17 mpg in city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Dealers are charging.
This Article Can Be Found In: