Minivan Review

Evaluating new minivans

Even though the minivan category is home to just eight models at the moment, the segment is still alive and well, and it's got a new face -- actually, several new faces. Every vehicle in this segment saw significant changes for 2011 or 2012 (in the case of the Mazda5). New looks, interior innovations and powertrain changes can be found throughout the class. Despite all the changes, the names that achieve Best Reviewed Minivan status are all very familiar. At the top of the relatively small heap are the 2011 Honda Odyssey (Base MSRP: $28,075 to $43,250) and the 2011 Toyota Sienna (Base MSRP: $25,060 to $40,570).

The other contenders in this category have their draws. The 2012 Mazda Mazda5 (Base MSRP: $16,878 to $21,265) is unique in that it's much smaller than its competition, earning it an alternative moniker: microvan. Also notable is the 2011 Kia Sedona (Base MSRP: $24,595 to $29,195), which offers most of the features a family would want in a full-size minivan but for far less money than the Odyssey or Sienna. Minivan pioneer Chrysler offers two vehicles in this segment: the overhauled 2011 Chrysler Town & Country (Base MSRP: $30,260 to $39,825) and the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (Base MSRP: $23,995 to $30,695). These fraternal twins are the most powerful minivans available, and the Town & Country boasts a luxurious cabin. Unfortunately, neither Chrysler minivan inspires much confidence in terms of driving dynamics or reliability, according to reviews. Chrysler also manufactures the 2011 Volkswagen Routan (Base MSRP: $26,930 to $43,240) for the German automaker. Though it's well-equipped and stylish, the VW minivan doesn't really connect with reviewers, many of whom get stuck on the fact that it's simply a badge-engineered Chrysler.

Minivans are still the most practical family vehicles

Noting that SUVs and crossovers have essentially toppled the minivan's long reign of popularity, a 2009 Cars.com comparison of then best-selling models from each segment helps illustrate which type of vehicle is best suited for families. After comparing a number of factors including price, fuel economy, seating, cargo capacity and entertainment options, writer Joe Bruzek reaches the conclusion that "minivans still get the advantage as the quintessential family hauler." He says that's due to their greater interior volume, family-friendly conveniences and overall safety -- not to mention their more affordable pricing. "That means you can not only pay a little extra for those available entertainment systems, you can also stock up on DVDs," says Bruzek.

Finding the best minivan reviews

We found a variety of excellent minivan reviews, each detailing the strengths and weaknesses of the various minivan nameplates. To find out which vans are the safest, most fuel-efficient and most reliable, we turned to sources such as ConsumerReports.org, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We found it easiest to unearth nuts-and-bolts information (prices, features, specs, etc.) at Edmunds.com. Other publications weigh in on economy, toughness and value, and the major publications and websites such as Motor Trend, Edmunds Inside Line, Car and Driver, and Cars.com all provide excellent minivan comparison tests involving some or all of the new vans available this year.

Now more than ever, value and practicality are crucial to families, who are seeking the best combination of practical features for efficiently hauling kids and cargo -- preferably without having to take out a loan to fill up the gas tank. Manufacturers are listening. The newest vans continue to offer innovative features and improved fuel economy.