As the world slowly returns to normalcy after the pandemic, people are looking to travel more and explore new places with their families. The modern minivan is designed to be comfortable, safe, and versatile, making them ideal for daily commutes, road trips, and vacations. You might be thinking an SUV can do the same thing as a minivan, but minivans tend to offer more interior space, a comfortable step-in height, and a better ride than SUVs. They typically have more headroom, legroom, and cargo space, which makes them a good choice for families who need to transport multiple passengers and large items but no need for more towing capacity. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best mini vans for 2023 that you should consider for your next family adventure.
- Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey has long been a favorite among families, and the 2023 model year is no exception. The Odyssey is spacious, comfortable, and loaded with features that make it an excellent choice for families. The Odyssey comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-Speed Automatic Transmission that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for highway driving and passing. The Odyssey comes with Intelligent Traction Management w/Snow Mode to keep you safe in inclement weather. The interior of the Odyssey is roomy, with plenty of space for up to eight passengers. Standard features include a rearview camera, a 8-inch touchscreen display, 7-Speaker, 160-Watt Audio System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The estimated fuel economy rating for the 2023 Honda Odyssey is 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. The starting price for the Honda Odyssey EX model is $37,490
- Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is another popular choice for families, and the 2023 model year brings some exciting updates. The Sienna is now available exclusively as a hybrid, making it one of the most fuel-efficient minivans on the market. It’s also packed with standard features, including a 9-inch touchscreen display, dual power sliding side doors, Seven USB ports, a rearview camera, and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of driver assistance technologies. The Sienna can seat up to eight passengers, and it has a spacious cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The Toyota Sienna is a hybrid vehicle and has an estimated fuel economy rating of 36 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 36 mpg combined. 2023 Toyota Sienna Minivan starting price of $36,135 for the LE model.
- Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival is a newcomer to the minivan market, and it’s already making waves. The Carnival is stylish, comfortable, and packed with features, making it a great value for families. It comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and it can seat up to eight passengers. Standard features include a rearview camera, power sliding rear doors, rear-view monitor w/ dynamic parking guidance, an 8-inch touchscreen display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Carnival also has a spacious cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The Kia Carnival estimated fuel economy rating is 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. Starting price is $33,100 for the LX model.
- Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica has long been a favorite among minivan enthusiasts, and the 2023 model year brings some exciting updates. The Pacifica is available with a standard gasoline engine or a hybrid powertrain, providing excellent fuel efficiency. It’s also packed with standard features, including a rearview camera, an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Pacifica can seat up to eight passengers, and it has a spacious cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The estimated fuel economy rating for the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica is 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. The base model Touring starts at $37,020.
5. Ford Transit Connect
While not technically a mini van, the Ford Transit Connect is a great option for families who need a bit more cargo space than a traditional minivan can provide. It offers seating for up to seven passengers and has a configurable interior that can accommodate everything from sports equipment to camping gear. The Transit Connect also comes with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. The estimated fuel economy rating for the Ford Transit Connect passenger van is 24 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.
6. Mercedes-Benz Metris
The Mercedes-Benz Metris is a smaller mini van that is perfect for smaller families or those who want a more compact vehicle. It has a spacious cabin that can seat up to eight passengers and it comes with a host of standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. Safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Metris comes with a 2.0L Turbocharged engine and a 9-speed transmission that provides a smooth and powerful ride. The Metris Starting price is $43,600. The estimated fuel economy rating for the Metris is 21 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.
The mini van market is filled with a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences. The above list features some of the best mini vans for 2023 that you should consider for your next family adventure. Each of these vehicles offers a spacious and comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and plenty of cargo space, making them great choices for families and people who need a lot of room.
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