As the year winds down, many of you are gearing up for your next automotive purchase. If you’re in the market for a new minivan, you’re in the right place. We have thoroughly tested every minivan in this segment, and today, we’ll be ranking them based on 10 important categories that matter most to buyers. There are only four real options in this segment, but each has undergone significant updates this year, making this an exciting comparison. Our rankings will be objective, based on these key categories, and at the end, we’ll share which one we would personally choose for our driveway.
The 10 Key Categories
After spending countless hours evaluating these vehicles, we broke down the minivans into 10 important categories that are crucial for families. These categories include:
- Parent Perks – Luxury features for parents.
- Powertrain Choices – Variety of engine options.
- Family-Friendly Features – Features designed for family convenience.
- Rear Seats – Comfort and functionality of the rear seating.
- Third-Row Seats – Space and comfort in the third row.
- Cargo Space – How much storage space is available.
- Technology – The tech features on board.
- Safety Ratings – How safe the minivan is.
- Reliability – Expected longevity and dependability.
- Value Under $45,000 – How well the vehicle fares in terms of price.
Each category is ranked from 1 to 5, with half-point scores allowed to provide differentiation between models.
2025 Honda Odyssey: Ranked Fourth
The Honda Odyssey ranks fourth with a total of 35.5 points. This minivan excels in some areas, particularly the third-row seats, which are more spacious than those in any other model.
Honda also shines in terms of resell value and reliability. The unique “Magic Slide” rear seats are another standout feature that no other minivan offers.
However, the Odyssey struggles in technology and powertrain choices. It offers only one V6 engine option and lacks an all-wheel-drive or hybrid model.
Additionally, the tech features are relatively basic compared to competitors, which may be a dealbreaker for tech-savvy buyers.
2025 Chrysler Pacifica: Ranked Third
The Chrysler Pacifica comes in third place with a score of 36 out of 50. It excels in parent perks, offering a power-folding third row, which is rare in this segment.
The Pacifica also stands out for its powertrain options, including a traditional V6, a plug-in hybrid, and the availability of all-wheel drive. Its third-row and cargo space are also impressive.
However, Chrysler doesn’t score as highly in reliability and resale value, earning a low 1 out of 5 in that category. Despite its strengths, these reliability concerns may be a deterrent for some buyers.
2025 Toyota Sienna: Ranked Second
In second place is the Toyota Sienna, with a total score of 40 out of 50. This minivan shines in several areas, including resell value, reliability, and its hybrid powertrain, which delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, offering up to 36 mpg combined.
It’s the only model in the segment to offer a hybrid powertrain as standard, and it even has the option of all-wheel drive. Additional features like a fridge on the top-end model and advanced child detection make it a family-friendly choice.
Where the Sienna falls short is in its maximum cargo space. Due to its design, the seats can’t fully slide or be removed, limiting the overall cargo capacity.
2025 Kia Carnival: Ranked First
The Kia Carnival takes the top spot with a score of 40.5, edging out the Sienna by just half a point. It offers excellent value, with a well-rounded feature set at a lower price point than competitors like the Sienna.
The rear seats are particularly impressive, offering options like heating, ventilation, and power adjustments, making it the most luxurious in its class.
However, the Carnival does have some drawbacks. Its resell value and reliability score lower compared to the Toyota, and it doesn’t offer an all-wheel-drive option, which may be a dealbreaker for those who need it. The Carnival also charges an additional $2,000 for its hybrid version, unlike the Sienna, which includes it as standard.
Our Personal Picks
While all of the minivans reviewed have their strengths, our personal choices differ. The Kia Carnival is our top pick due to its stylish design, luxury features, and overall value. It’s an SUV-like minivan that offers comfort and technology without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, the Toyota Sienna stands out for its fuel efficiency, hybrid system, and overall spaciousness. Despite not having the same luxury features as the Carnival, its practical advantages, such as the standard hybrid powertrain and superior cargo space, make it the best all-round choice for some.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right minivan comes down to what matters most to you. Whether it’s value, technology, cargo space, or fuel efficiency, each model has something to offer.
If you’re looking for detailed scores, feel free to pause the video or visit our website for an in-depth comparison of each category. Ultimately, whichever minivan you choose, we hope our rankings and personal insights help make your decision easier.
