10 Surprisingly Fast Minivans Ever Made

Born out of necessity and the need to carry big families around, minivans are one of the most practical but least exciting car categories. Performance and high-output engines are not something you usually associate with front-wheel-drive people carriers. However, there are ten cars that are exceptions to this rule, and today, we will take a closer look. 

1. Renault Espace F1

In 1994, Renault took the concept of a minivan to an entirely new level with the Espace F1. This one-off prototype was created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Espace and Renault’s involvement in Formula 1. Underneath its family-friendly exterior lay a 3.5-liter V10 engine from a Williams-Renault F1 car, producing 800 horsepower. The result?

A minivan that could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 194 mph. While it was never intended for production, the Espace F1 remains a testament to what’s possible when performance engineering meets unconventional design. 

2. Mercedes R63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz is known for blending luxury with performance, and the R63 AMG is a prime example. This high-performance variant of the R-Class minivan featured a hand-built 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering 503 horsepower.

With all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission, the R63 could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. Despite its impressive specs, the R63 AMG had a short production run, making it a rare find today.

3. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combines efficiency with respectable performance. Its 3.6-liter V6 engine, paired with an electric motor, produces 287 horsepower (combined power).

This setup allows the Pacifica Hybrid to accelerate briskly while offering the benefits of improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. It’s a practical choice for families who want a bit of pep in their daily drive without sacrificing efficiency.

4. Toyota Sienna Hybrid

Toyota’s Sienna Hybrid is another minivan that doesn’t compromise on performance. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, combined with electric motors, delivers 296 horsepower. This powertrain provides smooth acceleration and confident highway merging, all while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency.

The Sienna Hybrid proves that you can have both performance and practicality in a family vehicle. It is a kind of vehicle that doesn’t seem fast, but it is pretty rapid, at least for the standards of the minivan segment.

5. Toyota Previa Supercharged

In the 1990s, Toyota offered a supercharged version of its Previa minivan. This model featured a mid-mounted 2.4-liter engine with a supercharger, producing 160 horsepower.

While that might not sound impressive by today’s standards, the Previa Supercharged was one of the quicker minivans of its time, offering unique styling and a distinctive driving experience. 

6. GMC Safari GT

The GMC Safari GT was a sportier version of the standard Safari minivan. Equipped with a 4.3-liter V6 engine, it produced around 200 horsepower.

The Safari GT featured rear-wheel drive and a more aggressive suspension setup, making it a favorite among those who wanted a minivan with a bit more attitude.

7. Kia Carnival V6

In some markets, the Kia Carnival, or the Sedona, offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower. This power allows the Carnival to accelerate confidently, making it one of the more powerful options in the minivan segment.

Combined with a spacious interior and modern features, the Carnival is a compelling choice for families seeking performance and comfort. The 287 hp rating is pretty substantial, making this Kia one of the fastest minivans in its class.

8. Honda Odyssey Touring

The Honda Odyssey has long been a favorite among families, and the Touring trim adds a touch of performance to the mix. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 280 horsepower, providing smooth and responsive acceleration.

The Odyssey’s well-tuned suspension and precise steering make it one of the more engaging minivans to drive. Paired with Honda’s reliability and dependability, Odyssey is a great choice for people who want space, usability and a hint of performance.

9. Opel Zafira OPC

The Opel Zafira OPC is a performance-oriented version of the standard Zafira minivan. Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces 240 horsepower.

This setup allows the Zafira OPC to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 7 seconds, making it one of the fastest minivans available in Europe during its production run.

10. Ford S-Max 2.5T

The Ford S-Max 2.5T combines practicality with performance. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, shared with the Focus ST, produces 220 horsepower.

This powertrain enables the S-Max to deliver spirited acceleration and a dynamic driving experience, all while accommodating up to seven passengers. Interestingly, with the engine out of the hot hatch, the S-Max is one of the fastest minivans ever sold on European market.