CR's recommended minivans (Sedona, T&C, and Grand Caravan aren't recommended)
1. Honda Odyssey, 83/100.
Highs: Ride, powertrain refinement, front and rear seat comfort, cargo flexibility, access, fuel economy.
Lows: Cornering limits, road noise.
"The redesigned Odyssey tops our minivan ratings, comfortably outscoring its nearest competitor, the Toyota Sienna."
"The Odyssey tops our minivan Ratings and its reliability has improved to average, allowing us to recommended it. The 248-hp V6 performs well and is mated to a standard five-speed automatic. In our tests that combination returned 19 mpg overall. Top trim versions get a six-speed automatic. Handling is responsive, but the steering has lost some precision. Tire grip is unimpressive, and though it's ultimately secure, it limits the van's capability. The cabin is relatively quiet, but some road noise persists. The versatile interior has room for eight occupants and is nicely finished, with an easy-to-fold third-row seat."
2. Nissan Quest 81/100.
Highs: Ride, quietness, powertrain, fuel economy, plush interior, fold-flat seats.
Lows: Agility.
"The redesigned Quest minivan stands proud as a luxury vehicle worthy of an Infiniti badge."
"The Quest is powered by an eager 3.5-liter V6 mated to a continuously variable transmission. It is the most luxurious minivan on the market, with a plush and quiet interior and a smooth, compliant ride. Just don't expect sporty handling. Unlike most other minivans, the seats fold flat to form a flush load floor. But the Quest seats only seven at most, not eight. Its covered cargo bay behind the third-row seat can hide luggage, an uncommon feature in a minivan. Reliability has been average."
3. Toyota Sienna FWD 80/100
Highs: Ride, transmission, interior space and flexibility, rear seat, fuel economy.
Lows: Handling, road noise, fit and finish.
4. Toyota Sienna AWD 79/100
Highs: Ride, transmission, interior space and flexibility, rear seat, fuel economy.
Lows: Handling, road noise, fit and finish.
"The Sienna breaks no new ground (despite the 2011 redesign) and in some ways is not as nice as the van it replaced."
"The Sienna is a sensible choice, but in some ways it isn't as nice as the last generation. It rides very comfortably, but handling is lackluster. The 3.5-liter V6 is lively and returns a respectable 20 mpg. The all-wheel-drive version sacrifices just 1 mpg. Interior fit and finish is mediocre, and the cabin is a bit noisy. An eighth seat cleverly stores in the back when it isn't installed in the center of the middle row. Reliability of the FWD version is above average, the AWD version has improved to average."
Poll