How the mocked minivan became a family icon

A closer look

Boxy, clunky, and the butt of jokes—it was never born cool. And yet, the minivan was a miracle disguised in rectangles: sliding doors for chaos-filled mornings, endless cup holders for restless road trips, and space that felt like transporting a living room on wheels. For a generation, it became the family crown jewel, tying memories of vacations, soccer games, and singalongs together with seatbelts. Then along came SUVs, which stole the spotlight with rugged glamour. Still, the minivan’s quiet reign is remembered fondly—as the car that made parents superheroes of everyday logistics.