While SUVs have taken the lead in popularity, the minivan continues to hold its position as the ultimate choice for family transportation.
However, minivans have become quite pricey. In fact, you won’t find a single minivan being sold for less than $30,000! Kia prefers to refer to their Carnival as an MPV rather than a minivan, but even the base version starts at around $32,900.
Similarly, the Toyota Sienna, renowned for its accolades, begins at $35,285, and with additional options, the Platinum version can easily surpass the $50,000 mark.
Considering these factors, opting for a used minivan proves to be a sensible decision for most families. However, it’s crucial to select one that guarantees safety, and reliability, and doesn’t drain your wallet during ownership. Here are the top contenders for the best used minivans currently available on the market.
2018 Honda Odyssey – Everyone’s favorite
Pros
- Robust powertrain
- Impressive ride and handling
- Loads of family-friendly amenities
- Generous space and comfort
- A top safety pick
Cons
- Expensive to buy and maintain
- Not-so-easy removable second-row seats
- Classmates make hauling cargo easier
Overview
The Honda Odyssey is unanimously hailed as the top choice by car reviewers and owners alike. It encompasses all the desirable qualities you seek in a minivan and even manages to impress with its remarkably composed handling.
In 2018, Honda gave a complete makeover to the Odyssey. It looks more stylish on the outside, and the cabin boasts a tranquil environment. Space at the rear two rows surpasses many others in its class. And while the second-row seats are incredibly comfortable, they are bulky and weighty to remove, and regrettably cannot fold into the floor.
As a standard feature across the lineup, the Odyssey includes power-adjustable front seats, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find a whopping total of 15 cupholders scattered throughout the cabin. Honda has also thrown in some enjoyable options, such as an onboard vacuum, a video baby monitor, and an in-cabin PA system that allows you to communicate with rear passengers.
The enhancements continue with a revised V-6 engine and new nine- and 10-speed automatic transmissions. The 2018 Odyssey’s 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter engine is an absolute gem that delivers impressive performance without any compromises.
While the standard nine-speed automatic transmission pairs seamlessly with the engine, the available 10-speed automatic further improves the driving experience. Surprising for a minivan, the Odyssey exhibits remarkable quickness and agility, without sacrificing its comfortable ride quality.
How much will a used 2018 Honda Odyssey cost?
The Odyssey stands out among vehicles when it comes to retaining its value over time. Although it may require a higher upfront payment compared to its competitors, its depreciation rate is lower.
If you’re considering a used 2018 Honda Odyssey, the price range typically falls between $26,700 and $40,800. The final cost depends on factors such as the vehicle’s condition, mileage, features, and location.
Which is the best trim option for you?
The 2018 Honda Odyssey has six trims: LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L NR, Touring, and Elite. All trims seat eight, except for the LX, which has seating for seven.
Honda made its active safety technologies standard on all but the LX trim. In terms of infotainment, all trims, except the LX, feature an 8.0-inch touchscreen system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and six-speaker audio.
For the best value, we recommend skipping the base LX trim and upgrading to the EX. The EX trim offers a great mix of tech, safety, comfort, and convenience. Along with the standard features mentioned earlier, the EX trim includes heated front seats, Magic Slide second-row seats, and CabinControl.
If you want a rear-seat entertainment system with streaming apps and an in-cabin PA system, you’ll need to upgrade. This option is available on EX-L models and standard on the Touring and Elite trims. The Touring and Elite trims also come with a baby monitor that projects rear-seat occupants’ images onto the infotainment display for easy monitoring by parents.
Key Specifications
- Repair Pal Predicted Reliability Rating: 3.5/5
- Safety Ratings: 2018 IIHS Top Safety Pick; Five-star NHTSA overall safety rating
- Fuel Economy: Gas model: 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica – Making Minivans Desirable
Pros
- Desirable Stow ‘n Go seats
- Array of family-friendly tech and convenient features
- Makes hauling your items super easy
- Plenty of room
- Comfortable ride
- A top safety pick
Cons
- Odyssey has better rear seats
- A few impressive interior trimmings
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Overview
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica – we believe it deserves recognition as one of the top choices for those seeking the Best Minivan for the Money. While minivans have faced some competition from crossovers in recent years, the Chrysler Pacifica stands out with its sleek design that breaks away from the stereotypical image of a dull van.
Step inside and you will be greeted by a luxurious cabin, offering generous seating and cargo space. It goes above and beyond many other minivans with its array of innovative and family-friendly features.
The Pacifica truly understands the needs of minivan buyers, providing an abundance of USB ports and power outlets. For added comfort, optional features like heated second-row seats and dual 10-inch touch screens mounted on the rear of the front seat backs are available. Limited models even come equipped with a built-in vacuum cleaner. The user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system from Chrysler remains a favorite too.
Let’s not forget its clever second and third-row seats that effortlessly fold into the floor, instantly transforming the Pacifica from a people carrier to a spacious cargo van.
Under the hood, the Pacifica packs a punch with its 3.6-liter V-6 engine generating a robust 287 horsepower. Paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, it delivers ample power for merging and passing maneuvers. There’s a hybrid option too. It offers a total output of 260 horsepower.
How much will a used 2017 Chrysler Pacifica cost?
A used 2017 Chrysler Pcificia can range anywhere from $21,400 and $34,000 depending on the vehicle’s condition, mileage, features, and location.
Which is the best trim option for you?
Chrysler provides various trim levels for the 2017 Pacifica, including LX, Touring, Touring-L, Touring-L Plus, Limited, and Hybrid.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the LX trim line offers a great price. While it may lack some luxuries, it still comes equipped with useful features like a 5-inch touch screen, rearview camera, USB and auxiliary ports, Bluetooth, and remote keyless entry.
For those willing to invest a bit more, upgrading to the Touring-L Plus trim is worth considering. It maximizes your budget by adding extra perks such as a larger 8.4-inch touch screen, a 13-speaker audio system, heated second-row seats, and a second-row entertainment system with dual 10-inch screens, among other features.
Suppose you desire even more luxurious amenities like a three-pane panoramic sunroof, an onboard vacuum cleaner, power-folding third-row seats, and ventilated front seats. In that case, the Limited trim is the way to go.
Additionally, there’s a plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica available. It is one of the rare hybrid options and will require you to pay a higher sum upfront. However, it offers advantages like 30 miles of electric-only range, impressive acceleration, improved gasoline fuel economy, and additional amenities.
Key Specifications
- Repair Pal Predicted Reliability Rating: 3.5/5
- Safety Ratings: 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick+; Five-star NHTSA overall safety rating
- Fuel Economy: Gas model: 18 mpg city/ 28 mpg highway; Plug-in Hybrid: 82 mpg-e combined (gas+elec), 32 mpg combined (gas only)
2018 Toyota Sienna – The No-Nonsense Choice
Pros
- Punchy and efficient V-6
- Available all-wheel drive
- Above-average predicted reliability rating
- Ample cargo and passenger space
- Good standard equipment including a suite of active safety features
Cons
- Sloppy handling with significant body roll around turns
- Classmates offer more innovations
- Still no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Subpar safety scores for the segment
Overview
The minivan class has a dependable contender in the form of the Toyota Sienna, and it’s not hard to see why. It offers ample space and comfort, along with Toyota’s renowned strengths in design, functionality, user-friendliness, and, of course, reliability. What sets it apart even further is its rare combination of a powerful V6 engine and available all-wheel drive, something you don’t often find in minivans.
If you’re considering a used Sienna, we suggest opting for a 2018 model instead of an older one. In 2018, Toyota gave the Sienna a refreshed front appearance and made a suite of driver assistance features standard. The 2018 Sienna also received updates in terms of technology and a quieter cabin. It also carries over the powertrain improvements introduced with the 2017 Sienna.
While the interior design may feel a bit outdated, it remains a functional space suitable for passengers of all ages. You’ll find optional features like second-row captain’s chairs, a drop-down rear-seat entertainment system, and even a power-activated second-row seat called an Auto Access Seat.
While it doesn’t get Pacifica’s Stow ‘N Go seating system, the Sienna compensates with one of the best cargo volumes in its class. It also has highly adjustable second-row seats and a fold-flat third row, providing impressive versatility.
The Sienna boasts a robust, refined, and fuel-efficient 296-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowing it to reach 60 mph quicker than even the agile Honda Odyssey.
Putting acceleration aside, Toyota’s family hauler is incredibly easy to drive, whether you’re shuttling the kids to practice or navigating crowded highways during holiday getaways. However, it does have a bit more body roll than some rivals, which can be unsettling. On smooth roads, though, the Sienna maintains a comfortable ride, ensuring the little ones remain undisturbed.
How much will a used 2018 Toyota Sienna cost?
A used 2018 Toyota Sienna can range anywhere from $23,700 and $33,000 depending on the vehicle’s condition, mileage, features, and location.
Which is the best trim option for you?
The 2018 Toyota Sienna comes in five trims: L, LE, SE, XLE, and Limited. You also have the option of premium trims for the SE, XLE, and Limited.
The base Sienna, the L trim, is a solid value. You’ll enjoy three-zone automatic climate control, five USB ports, a rearview camera, and an upgraded Entune infotainment system. This system boasts a 7-inch touch screen, phone-linked navigation, Bluetooth, voice recognition, and a six-speaker stereo. Plus, the Sienna lineup includes Toyota Safety Sense P as standard, which means you get a plethora of driver assistance features.
If you’re seeking a bit more luxury, the SE trim hits the sweet spot. It adds heated front seats, genuine leather upholstery, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, a power liftgate, and sport-tuned steering and suspension.
Also important is that you keep your seating preferences and all-wheel drive requirement in mind. All-wheel drive is available only on the LE, XLE, and Limited trims, and these AWD models seat seven passengers.
Key Specifications
- Repair Pal Predicted Reliability Rating: 4/5
- Safety Ratings: Five-star NHTSA overall safety rating
- Fuel Economy: FWD: 19 mpg city/ 27 mpg highway; AWD:18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
2019 Kia Sedona – The Value Leader
Pros
- Value for money
- Solid predicted reliability rating
- Agreeable cabin
- Plush ride quality
- A top safety pick
Cons
- So-so handling
- Below-average cargo space
Overview
While Honda, Toyota, and Chrysler dominate the minivan sales segment, it’s important not to overlook the impressive Kia Sedona as an option. You can find a gently used 2019 Kia Sedona with remarkably low mileage for the same price as a much older Honda or Toyota.
Even when it first hit the market, the 2015-2021 Kia Sedona stood out as a value leader among minivans. It may have skipped some fancy features, but it compensated with a lengthy warranty, solid build quality, a versatile and modern interior, and a robust V6 engine.
Our recommendation for the 2019 Kia Sedona stems from its refreshed interior and exterior design, as well as the inclusion of a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard features.
The 2019 Sedona comes with three rows of seating and can seat up to eight passengers. The base model offers two second-row seats, while all other trims feature a three-person bench instead. The front seats are cushy and quite supportive, while the middle row will treat even large adults in great comfort. However, it’s worth noting that the rearmost seats aren’t as welcoming as those of the Odyssey or the Sienna.
Similar to other vans in its class, the 2019 Sedona is equipped with a V6 engine. While it may have slightly lower horsepower compared to its rivals, the difference is hardly noticeable. The Sedona exhibits swift acceleration, even when fully loaded with passengers or cargo.
When it comes to ride and handling, the Sedona maintains composure on winding roads but although it isn’t what you call agile or engaging. The suspension effectively jolts out most road imperfections, although driving over extremely uneven pavement may disturb the cabin.
How much will a used 2019 Kia Sedona cost?
If you’re on a budget, the Kia Sedona provides excellent value for your money. According to J.D. Power, owners have consistently rated its quality and reliability as “great.” Interestingly, while the Sedona’s resale value is only average, this works to your advantage when purchasing a used one.
When searching for a used 2019 Kia Sedona, prices can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle’s condition, mileage, features, and location. Generally, you can expect to find them priced between $23,485 and $33,453.
Which is the best trim option for you?
The 2019 Kia Sedona offers four trims: L, LX, EX, and SX. All trims are equipped with a V6 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive.
For a more enhanced experience, consider opting for the EX or SX models and pass on the lower trims. The EX trim introduces luxurious features like leather seats, heated front seats, additional USB ports, tri-zone automatic climate control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, wireless device charging, and satellite radio.
If you desire even more advanced features, the SX trim is the way to go. It offers a larger 8-inch touch screen, navigation, a heated steering wheel, adaptive LED headlights, ventilated front seats, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, a surround-view parking camera system, and selectable drive modes.
Key Specifications
- Repair Pal Predicted Reliability Rating: 4/5
- Safety Ratings: 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick; Five-star NHTSA overall safety rating
- Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city/ 24 mpg highway
2015 Mazda 5
Pros
- Cheap to buy and maintain
- Surprisingly sporty to drive
- Feels like a hatch to handle
- Impressive ride comfort
Cons
- Short, flat front seats
- Underpowered and less refined
Although the Mazda 5 was discontinued after the 2015 model year, you can still find used versions of this micro-van. It serves as a great option if you find traditional minivans too bulky or if you’re looking for a vehicle that bridges the gap between a family sedan and a full-size minivan.
Once you’re behind the wheel, you might feel like you’re driving a nimble small car, but with the added convenience of sliding side doors and surprisingly spacious seating for six and easily configurable interior.
What sets it apart from typical minivans is its unexpected emphasis on driving enjoyment. Although its 157 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine may not deliver exhilarating acceleration, the Mazda 5’s ride and handling will capture your attention. The precise steering and composed ride contribute to its sporty yet controlled driving experience. It truly shines when navigating winding roads, showcasing its surprising agility.
Yes, it isn’t at the same level of space or modern features found in current minivans, but throw in a budget-friendly price tag and low ownership costs, and the Mazda 5 comes out as a convincing used option.
2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
Pros
- Affordable
- Convenient Stow ‘n Go seats
- Strong engine
- Respectable amount of interior space
- Solid towing capacity
Cons
- Outdated
- Too spartan base trim
- Antiquated technology
- Finicky cabin materials
- Stiff ride
Despite its nearly 10-year-old age and lack of fancy frills, the 2017 Grand Caravan remains one of the most affordable minivans available.
In addition to its attractive pricing, the Grand Caravan offers a robust towing capacity of 3,600 pounds. The hallmark Stow ‘n Go seating system is another highlight. Furthermore, the Grand Caravan is equipped with a powerful 283-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. The Grand Carvana offers a satisfying blend of performance and cornering capability,
If you’re someone who prioritizes affordability and practicality over extravagant features, the 2017 Grand Caravan is an ideal choice
2016 Nissan Quest
Pros
- Powerful V6
- Smooth ride and good handling
- Distinct style
- Decent fuel economy for a van
Cons
- Uninspiring crash scores
- Barebones base model
- Rear doors don’t slide far enough
Looking for a minivan that combines value and style? The 2017 Nissan Quest might be your perfect match. While it caters to the value end of the segment and doesn’t focus on luxury, it offers a fantastic deal in the used car market if you’re lucky enough to find one.
While it may lack the advanced technology and safety features found in other desirable minivans, the Quest has its own distinctive style and a luxurious interior with comfortable seats.
It provides a smooth ride, and despite the general perception that minivans aren’t particularly fun to drive, the Quest handles more like a smaller car and has relatively good steering compared to others in its class. Additionally, it stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its category, achieving 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
2017 Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to drive
- Practical for the size
Cons
- Fuel economy could have been better
- Unimpressive performance
- Second row doesn’t slide or recline
The Ford Transit Connect stands out as a newer addition compared to other minivans on this list. While it can also be used as a work or cargo van, its passenger configuration places it firmly within the minivan category, albeit with a more compact size.
Thanks to its smaller dimensions, the Transit Connect is an excellent choice for those in need of a versatile van with easy maneuverability and a smaller footprint. It can comfortably seat up to seven passengers in long-wheelbase models and features convenient sliding side doors.
If you prefer six-passenger seating, the Titanium trim comes with appealing additions such as leather seats (heated in the front) and dual-zone climate control. Don’t forget to look for models equipped with rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring for added safety.
