Every year, our Car Confections Team gets behind the wheels of hundreds of cars, from every size and price point, to make reviews for the channel. Today, we will be sharing our Best Minivans for 2026, all of which we have spent extensive time with. We have hand-crafted segment specific scores, to help tailor them for each unique buyer. After we share our top rankings, we will also share what we’d personally park in our driveways from this segment. For an in-depth video about each, be sure to check out each linked video, as well as our full rankings at the bottom of this article!
Scoring Criteria
From reading thousands of comments our viewers have left on our channel; we developed a list of the most important categories for shoppers looking for a Minivan.
We have spent countless hours testing out each of these models, driving them over all types of terrain, testing the technology, sampling the space, and living with them. We then took the time to craft these rankings based off our experience into the following criteria categories.
Of course, consumer priorities do vary, so be sure to sort these categories and weigh them based on what’s most important to you.
#4: Honda odyssey
The Honda Odyssey has been around for a long time, and is coming off a recent refresh just last year. While its changes weren’t radical, the Odyssey is primarily the favorite of those who value the essentials and a hearty V6 engine underneath. Additionally, the Odyssey scores well in overall practicality, providing multiple unique seating options to fit your family needs. However, the reason the Odyssey lands last on this list today is mainly due to its lack of available features. It is still the only one with no 360 Camera, doesn’t have family features like a vacuum or fridge box, and has a smaller, more outdated screen. While the other three options lack some of the Odyssey’s perks, this option needs more luxury to compete.
#3: Chrysler pacifica/Voyager
Though its names have changed over the years, Chrysler is also known as a veteran in the minivan space. The Pacifica, again joined by the Voyager, falls third on our list today. This option excels in its powertrain picks, offering a class-exclusive PHEV model in addition to its V6. For those looking for ultimate flexibility, this model has some super unique features for the family like its stow-n-go seats and available vacuum. Also, the Pacifica offers some top-notch luxury on its Pinnacle trim, including quilted seats with all the goodies. Finally, it’s also the cargo leader of this segment. On the flip side, it is not the leader in terms of resale and reliability, nor does it have the best technology. Compared to the top two competitors, the Chrysler has the packaging but lacks the cohesiveness to score any higher.
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#2: Kia Carnival
One of the newer nameplates to this countdown, the Kia Carnival is a very strong and well-rounded option in this segment! Also recently refreshed, the Carnival improved upon its weak points, and then some, to be offer a model, price point, and engine for most any buyer. The Carnival scores above average in all categories due to its recently added hybrid engine option, class-leading tech, family features, and continued value. All passengers will be spoiled with leading luxury, especially if you opt for the class-exclusive, fully power, VIP seats. Though it still has some strides to make in terms of reliability, overall practicality, and lacking AWD, the Carnival is a well-rounded pick that should suit the needs of most families!
#1: Toyota Sienna
For the past decade or so, the Toyota Sienna has long served as the option to beat in the minivan space, and it’s once again our winner for 2026. Coming off a refresh, the Sienna is better than ever, with a dual 12.3-inch screen setup, as well as top tier features like a fridge box and vacuum. The Sienna also has quite a few options to choose from, whether it be for seating options or trim design groups. Finally, a big minivan perk, the Sienna has the best third row in terms of space and features. It’s Hybrid system performs very well, and even includes AWD, but it is lacking an additional option, which buyers appreciate. Why back on top this year? Well, Toyota has added more value to the Sienna for 2026, with more trims offering more standard features, without hurting the overall price. So, while still pricier, the Sienna is offering more value this year to win the segment.
Scoring Chart
We understand that buyers value different categories, which is why the chart below is a great tool to check out! This chart allows you to sort this competitive segment by category, to help choose your personal winner. If top tier reliability is your most important trait, then this tool can help you find the best!
| PARENTS' PERKS | POWERTRAIN | FAMILY FEATURES | REAR SEATS | 3RD ROW | CARGO SPACE | TECHNOLOGY | SAFETY RATINGS | RELIABILITY | VALUE UNDER $50,000 | TOTAL (out of 50) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Sienna | 3.5 | 4 | 5 | 4.5 | 5 | 2.5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 3.5 | 41 |
| Kia Carnival | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 5 | 3.5 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3.5 | 5 | 39.5 |
| Chrysler Pacifica/Voyager | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 0.5 | 3 | 34.5 |
| Honda Odyssey | 2.5 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 4.5 | 2.5 | 32 |
Close Calls for a Small but popular segment!
As you can see, the point values over these categories create many close calls, so you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices. As far as our personal picks, Drew leans towards the Kia Carnival, Mason would choose the tried-and-true Toyota Sienna, and Josh would go for the classic Honda Odyssey. Though there are few options in the segment, each has its unique appeal and crowd of followers!
Thank you for checking out our expert picks for the Best Minivans for 2026! Let us know in the comments which one you would choose and be sure to check out the associated video, as well as our individual reviews for each vehicle. We hope this helps in your journey to purchase a new vehicle!
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