We ranked the best minivans of 2021 based off of their interior space, powertrains, technology, and options. Which one comes in at number one?
Minivans are the best body style for growing families. They have plenty of passenger space, fun entertainment options, and have been packed full of helpful technology over the years. Items like cabin speak, which allows parents to tell the kids in the backseat to settle down without having to “come back there”, and built-in vacuums have been helpful additions to the family minivan over the years. Minivans have also grown to provide more luxury amenities, intuitive storage options, and tons of advanced safety features baked in. We took a look at all the available minivans for 2021 and ranked them according to how well they scored with our writers. Here’s what we found!
Touchscreen infotainment systems are standard
Simple but effective cooling glove box
Eleven driver assistance systems
SX has reclining second row with footrests
An AWD and/or hybrid option
Looking forward to the 2022 model
CARSFORSALE.COM SCORE
7.4/10
Carsforsale.com takes into account key metrics to compile an aggregate score. Click to learn more.
MSRP
$31,575 - $42,675
BEST FUEL ECONOMY
18 City / 24 Hwy (MPG)
The 2021 Kia Sedona is the last of its name as the more appealing Kia Carnival has come onto the market. Under the hood of this final Sedona is a 3.3L V6 that makes a lowly 276 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. That engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission and FWD is the only drivetrain configuration. Fuel economy is lacking at a 21 mpg combined rating. The interior of the Sedona is also lagging behind the competition with lower quality components and dated entertainment options, but Kia makes up for it with an approachable price, some substantial warranty coverage, complimentary maintenance, and a great list of standard advanced safety features.
Excellent driving dynamics
Safety features are plentiful
Attractive value proposition
Rivals offer AWD
No hybrid
No 360 camera system available
CARSFORSALE.COM SCORE
7.9/10
Carsforsale.com takes into account key metrics to compile an aggregate score. Click to learn more.
MSRP
$33,015 - $49,045
BEST FUEL ECONOMY
19 City / 28 Hwy (MPG)
The Honda Odyssey has been a strong minivan option for years now, and the refresh for 2021 has help further its case. The exterior has been updated, interior enhancements have been made, and the Honda Sensing safety suite is completely standard now. The 3.5L V6 is the only engine option, making 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission directing power to the front wheels exclusively. Fuel economy comes in at 22 mpg combined, so it isn’t the best at the pump. The 2021 Honda Odyssey may not be the most fuel efficient or luxurious of the bunch, but it’s a well-rounded minivan and serves some of the best driving dynamics for its class.
Incredible fuel economy
Fantastic standard safety features
Excellent tech
Middle row can’t be taken out
Steering and brakes are numb
Provide a more powerful drivetrain
CARSFORSALE.COM SCORE
8.3/10
Carsforsale.com takes into account key metrics to compile an aggregate score. Click to learn more.
MSRP
$35,645 - $51,075
BEST FUEL ECONOMY
35 City / 36 Hwy (MPG)
Toyota knows how to make a minivan, and the 2021 Toyota Sienna is proof of that. While its lone engine offering in the form of a hybrid 2.5L I4 may not shine in the performance category with 245 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque, it makes for one of the best options when it comes to fuel economy at 35 mpg combined. The only transmission is a CVT, but customers have the choice of a FWD or AWD setup. Inside, there is plenty of storage areas, supportive seating, and it presents an overall functional design. The Sienna provides great technology offerings throughout their lineup, including a 9-inch infotainment unit and a host of standard advanced safety features.
Standard 7″ digital instrument panel
LED front, rear, and daytime-running lamps
ParkSense active park assist
Hybrid powertrain allows 100% electric driving
Stow ‘n Go not available for hybrids
Chrysler continues their minivan innovation
CARSFORSALE.COM SCORE
8.8/10
Carsforsale.com takes into account key metrics to compile an aggregate score. Click to learn more.
MSRP
$37,315 - $55,590
BEST FUEL ECONOMY
Combined 82 MPGe
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is the best choice in its minivan class. Chrysler provides the option of a powerful 3.6L V6 or a hybridized version of the same engine that makes some great fuel economy numbers at 82 MPGe. Chrysler pairs a 9-speed automatic transmission to either option and offers the choice of FWD or AWD drivetrains. The Pacifica can also be outfitted to have one of the most luxurious interiors of the segment, provide some of the most up to date technological advancements, and gains some great standard advanced safety features. The only downside to this vehicle is that some amenities found in other minivans are locked behind upper trim levels or packages, but that doesn’t mean that this base model is spartan. Be sure to check out this minivan on Carsforsale.com!