Let’s be completely honest – minivans have been getting a pretty bad reputation for a very long time. The stigma that surrounds these practical vehicles is less than flattering, and it has been that way for as long as we can remember. The name calling has gotten so out of hand, that people are shamed out of buying them. Rather than purchase the minivan they need, these drivers opt for a bulky SUV with three rows. The practicality is just not the same, and more often than not, intense buyer’s remorse sets in. It’s our belief that minivan hopefuls ignore the naysayers, and make the purchase that their gut is telling them to make. To help the process along, and because there are so many quality used cars, we have come up with a list of great pre-owned minivans for under $20,000.
Not Just for Soccer Moms Anymore
One of the most commonly used names for the minivan is also one of the most dreaded. The Soccer Mom Vehicle. This name implies that the driver of the minivan exists solely to tote kids around to their plethora of extracurricular activities. While minivans do an exceptional job of completing this task, the person behind the wheel is so much more than a “soccer mom.” Aside from working to remove this stigma, there are entirely new sets of drivers emerging who prefer to own a minivan.
Aside from large families, the second most common minivan owner is the active older adult. These empty-nesters are considered to be in their “Go Go Years.” Retirement has set in, and rather than sit by, they embark on adventures. Whether that means a cross country road trip, or a bike ride in another state, these minivan drivers value the practicality that the vehicle brings to the table. With back seats stowed, most minivans can fit entire bikes in their rear cargo area without having to disassemble any parts.
Active older adults who enjoy the great outdoors can also haul as much cargo as they can gather, with a trusted minivan. This appeal is not reserved solely for Generation X individuals, but is also becoming more commonly appreciate in the Millennial generation. Younger adults are taking notice of how versatile minivans are, and the vehicle has sparked a newfound interest in this group of young drivers.
Why Used Minivans Make Great Vehicles
Whether you are the stereotypical “soccer mom” searching for a functional vehicle for day to day life with young kids, are the active older adult who wishes to embark on endless adventures in a sensible car, or happen to be one of the younger drivers who recognizes the pragmatism of owning a minivan – it doesn’t matter. These vehicles are as multi-purpose as any automobile has ever been.
With the first minivans coming onto the automotive scene back in the early 1980’s, there are plenty of used versions of all makes and models available for purchase. From basic bare-bone necessities, to full-blown amenity-rich cabins, there is a used minivan out there that can appeal to all of your senses. Finding the perfect used minivan is easier than you might think, and is also cheaper than you may think. New minivans can end up costing you well over $50,000 when equipped with all of the bells and whistles, so finding a high quality pre-owned version will save you a ton of money up front.
Top 5 Used Minivans Under $20,000
Aside from being practical, minivans are notoriously safe. For a vehicle that was essentially designed for large families, it is no surprise that safety is the number one concern for minivan buyers. With that being said, safety is one of the most influential factors that was taken into account when this list was compiled by US News and World Report late last year.
Take a look at the top 5 used minivans that will keep you moving forward with your active lifestyle, without breaking the bank.
- 2010 Toyota Sienna: Toyota’s version of the minivan first came to market in 1998. A late player to the game, the Sienna was immediately favorited amongst minivan enthusiasts. For 2010, the Sienna was touted for its solid performance, large interior cabin, and responsive V6 engine. With an average fuel economy, the 2010 Sienna was available with all-wheel-drive, making it even more appealing for drivers who live in areas of the United States with changing seasons. Drivers can expect to pay between $12,000 and $20,000 for this used minivan. The Sienna took up multiple spots on this same list for different model years including the number four spot for the 2009 model year.
- 2009 Honda Odyssey: Another popular choice in the minivan segment, the Odyssey has been around since 1994. The interior of the 2009 model is exceptionally comfortable and spacious, while the excellent safety scores keep the Odyssey at the top of the list. With seating for up to eight passengers, the Odyssey can carry all of your passengers, their cargo, and still have room to spare. Expect to find used 2009 Odyssey models anywhere from $10,000 to $17,000. Not bad for a class-leading minivan. The Odyssey was also repeatedly recognized on this list, taking the number five spot for the 2010 model year.
- 2010 Kia Sedona: Offering interior seating for up to seven passengers, the Kia Sedona has exceptional safety scores and a unique appearance. The Kia minivan came loaded with more standard features than other vehicles in the same class, making it a standout for buying both new and used. A 3.8-liter V6 engine powers the 2010 Sedona, which has responsive handling and above average fuel economy ratings. The 2010 Sedona will end up costing you anywhere from $9,000 to $11,000, making it the most affordable on our list so far. The Sedona takes up more than one spot on the list of best used minivans for under $20,000, with the 2011 model snagging the number six spot.
- 2010 Volkswagen Routan: After the Sienna, Odyssey, and Sedona played a rousing pattern game, it’s time for a new name on the list. The Volkswagen Routan offers the signature styling unique to the VW brand, high safety scores, and a smooth ride. On average, drivers spent between $8,000 and $14,000 for this used minivan.
- 2012 Mazda Mazda5: Mazda’s entry into the segment truly puts the “mini” in minivan. The compact size of this vehicle makes for exceptional handling, and a more sporty performance than other vehicles in the segment offer. Getting up to 28 miles per gallon on the highway, the Mazda5 will save you money at the pump for your entire years of ownership. Expect to pay anywhere from $12,000 to $15,000 for this minivan used.
Consider Your Lifestyle
When you are weighing the pros and cons of each minivan, it is important that you take into account your lifestyle and individual needs. All minivans are practical on nearly every level, but if you want efficiency in your day to day excursions, then you may want to consider vehicles that offer rear seating that easily stows without having to hassle with removing entire seat benches.
Head to your local used car dealership with ideas in mind of what you are looking for, and take a few different models for a test drive. If you carefully weigh all of your options, you can confidently make your minivan purchase without fear of leaving with that dreaded buyer’s remorse.
