Finding The Best Minivan | Episode 1 | Under The Hood & Cost To Own

Which minivan is right for you? A Sienna? Odyssey? Carnival? Pacifica? Voyager? Pacifica Hybrid? In this first ever 5-part minivan extravaganza I take a deep, deep, DEEEP dive into the ultimate family mobile. In part one I check out the engines, talk about cost to operate, episode 2 is all about cargo, episode 3 covers seating and interior design, 4 is about the driving dynamics (or lack thereof) and the series ends with pricing and opinions.
Episode 1: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lWqygJ5vqstkf6M
Episode 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH6wmKqJpMuperc
Episode 3: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpi3pGeKpad2b9k
Episode 4: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gX-xfoSMbcicmqs
Episode 5: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGeaiKJ6hZikr8k
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[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Looking for the shirt? Check it out here: www.aoamerch.com/product-page/unisex-deluxe-t-shirt

[@garrettw99]

I was going to buy the coffee mug with you hanging out the window of a yellow Kia Seltos, but it got discontinued a while ago😭

[@SamKhoury]

The blue color t-shirt that you're wearing in the video isn't available. ☹️

[@mogradme8535]

The real issue I find with minivans, is when people complain that they can't find a 3 row midsized SUV that will fit all their stuff. When I suggest a couple of minivans to look at, they're like "Eww, no". Even the new Carnival they won't even LOOK at simply because it's a "minivan". It's pretty tragic.

[@pryme2013]

Absolutely. I love our minivan! 2020 Sedona. No suv compares when it comes to what we and most families with kids do, and that's move people from place to place. I'll say it again, NO suv compares when you take into account usability, sliding doors, door opening size, low load heights, fuel economy, ride etc oh and a better price point to boot.

[@sarabeth8050]

SUVs are today's suburban soccer mom-mobile. At the elementary school near my house, all you see the moms dropping off their kids are big SUVs. Rarely a minivan anywhere. A lot of people already understand that. That's why those big 4 door pickup trucks sell like crazy to men who don't need them for any practical purpose. They just don't want to be seen in a SUV mom-mobile. Minivans are favorites among people who need a large, comfortable, relatively fuel efficient vehicle and who are not insecure about their image.

[@pryme2013]

@Eric Lineback excellent. Ours only has 6k miles so far but enjoying it. Going to buy a shirt I saw on Amazon. "Real men drive minivans"

[@James-il3tq]

People too concerned about ego these days. Understandable if you're in your 20s but people 40+ primary reason for buying a vehicle is to look cool is, well.. shallow and materialistic. Remember vehicles are depreciating assets and only serve to make you poorer over time!

[@Lion-hj7ch]

But c'mon... Driving minivan just screams you hate life and you sacrifice your well being for your kids...

[@shamanthjilla]

Minivan dealers should display your flowchart in their dealerships

[@steventomlin4845]

As a single person, I have no need for a Truck, SUV or Minivan. He did play a role in me buying the 2019 AWD Mazda3 Sedan I currently own (I agree, Alex it is gorgeous). I simply enjoy the way Alex presents automotive information. He is informative, engaging and professional. He uses respectful humor and I've never seen him be offensive.

[@DiscoFang]

As a single person, I own 4 cars and 4 motorbikes but the one vehicle that gets used daily is... the minivan. (Plot twist, it's a Mitsubishi.)

[@mcalebeb]

@@DiscoFang yass 🔥

[@mcalebeb]

Whenever I see a Mazda5 I get happy 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@garrettw99]

@@DiscoFang Mitsubishi Delica?

[@DiscoFang]

@@garrettw99 Indeed, the mighty D5.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Another example of why I throw a few bucks each month to this channel and when I'm in the market for a vehicle this is the first (and last) place I go in my research. I'm not in the market for a minivan, nor for a pickup for that matter, but I never miss one of Alex' reviews. Others may be more amusing (though Alex gets an A for effort with his puns) but no one provides such a comprehensive and detailed perspective.

[@garrettw99]

100% agree. I don’t think I’ll ever stop watching his videos, and I subscribe to 30 other car channels

[@KirkKreifels]

You had me at minivan...

[@dotheroar2524]

Lol don’t you have a sienna?

[@mountainhobo]

"You had me at minivan..." -- And the joke is where?

[@edwardgh57]

Kirk and Alex say mini vans are cool. Both provide excellent content .

[@SoulFire209]

That dadlife though

[@Henry_Jones]

When i was shopping for minivans it was in 2015. It was odyssey vs sienna vs town and country vs sedona. Heres how it went down. Sedona- cant remove 2nd row seats. Eliminated Town and Country - no 3 seat 2nd row. At the time with 3 kids who cant buckle up we went gonna climb onto row 2 to buckle up the kid. eliminated SIenna - drove like a bus and 2nd row middle seat doesnt allow car sears, eliminated. Odyssey - drove like a big accord, 3 seats in row 2 with latch. WINNER! We got a 2016 odyssey exl and aftet 6 years its got 57k and zero problems. Its a great van.

[@garrettw99]

I think you’ll want to disable the VCM if you haven’t done that yet. It can kill the engine prematurely

[@Henry_Jones]

@@garrettw99 how is that done? Theres no button and my accord v6 has it too ans its very annoying in the accord.

[@garrettw99]

@@Henry_Jones I believe this is the device that people use. I have an 02 Odyssey and it doesn’t have VCM, but I know it is a common complaint on the 2005+. www.vcmtuner.com

[@Henry_Jones]

When we started shopping i was dead set on sienna for toyota reliability but aftet seeing the little differences and being turned off by the siennas minibus like driving dynamics and seeing the 2nd row middle seat was a joke the odyssey took the win. These vans may all look more or less the same but there are differences that make or break them depending on your needs.

[@garrettw99]

@@Henry_Jones yeah, that’s basically the philosophy of Alex’s channel. There’s always a reason to buy a certain car over another, and not everyone has the same needs in a car

[@cletusowns]

We love our Pacifica Hybrid! We have put 30k miles on it and fully 20k of those are electric because my wife's commute to and from work is exactly 32 miles. It is a great roadtripper and the battery weight actually means it has less chassis roll than the gas version. What I really kind of like is that parking at campsites means you can use a normal plug and just charge up no problem. We plug in every night to a normal outlet, no L2 needed, at 10c/kwh and it has been great. More people need to consider minivans over the multitude of 3 row SUVs that offer neither sportiness or utility. I shopped back to back with the Telluride, Pilot, Highlander, Ascent, Odyssey and I came away far and away impressed by the Pacifica Hybrid. It is great!

[@TheGerm24]

I have a Pacifica Hybrid, but don't have nearly the miles on it that you do. Have you had any maintenance issues? There was one recall which has been fixed.

[@cletusowns]

@@TheGerm24 one recall, one lubrication of the sliding door in the first 1000 miles. No other issues.

[@zschudrowitz155]

We went with Honda and yes same shopping scenario. Pacifica lost because accountant explained I wouldnt get the full tax credit. We re unique that way and wouldve got the Pacifica otherwise.

[@JJ-gc8du]

It's been a year since the review (above). Do you still love the Pacifica? Shopping now...and yes, our choice needs to be a road trip AND occasional camping vehicle.

[@cletusowns]

@@JJ-gc8du yes! We drive it daily and so far over 80% of lifetime miles have been electric. Awesome roadtripper still and even with a bunch of kids the interior has held up really well

[@tteesstt666]

Confirmed that my purchase of Chrysler Pacifica hybrid was a brilliant choice. Love the t shirt once I saw it and ordered right away.

[@ClarksAddress]

Just what I've been looking for. Anxiously awaiting the remainder of the series. Thanks!

[@joec1774]

A wonderful detailed, modern-day comparison test. Awesome.

[@3rdGUMObro]

I love the deep dive and extreme attention to detail. Can't wait for next episodes!

[@daniel3144]

This is the reason why I love your channel, you always compare vehicles from the buyers perspective. Also, you do pay attention to buyer like parents where most of the channels do not care too much. Way to go Alex!

[@rokzkypiazky2451]

Thank you, you’ve started doing comparisons of minivans and do more for the SUV’s! ’m starting to watch it 💕

[@calvin3725]

This is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Thank you Alex!

[@eramg6324]

Alex, you are an amazing reviewer. Great analysis…..thank you!

[@evac311]

Wife and I just tested all these vans. Put our money down on a sienna, it felt modern like the kia but without the ergonomic challenges of the kia. The honda felt "dated" although we lived that the 8 passenger was available in the higher trims. I believe the pacifica hybrid is going to win this by it's stat sheet alone, just incredible when you add it all up. Problem for me is when I went looking at the used market there were an alarming number of pacifica hybrids for sale, many of which upon checking their carfax showed them being traded back to the dealer for electrical issues. It being my money and me being a stickler for quality, I had any easy choice in the sienna.

[@BTC909]

A used Pacific Hybrid is tempting but if it has a high chance of "dealer level problems" forget it.

[@Natethegreat200c]

That Toyota hybrid isn’t reliable if your keeping it long term because you will have to deal with thousands and thousands in battery replacement cost.

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@BTC909 it doesn’t

[@notmyfaultthisishappening3795]

@@Natethegreat200c The battery warranty is 10 years/150K and many batteries can last longer than that. It's really a non-issue until well into the next decade.

[@Sev5454]

@@notmyfaultthisishappening3795 agreed. Prius batteries routinely go 200-250k miles.

[@sunnyguan716]

I love minivans but I haven’t been able to find the perfect one! Can’t wait for more!

[@MrKillerRC]

Pinnacle Pacifica Hybrid 🙌🏼 Great video. Best comparison I’ve seen.

[@Pikminiman]

Minivans are underrated.

[@andrewl8251]

My main gripe that caused me to be exitant about the carnival was it not offering port injectors. You are the first reviewer to point that out.

[@garrettw99]

The V6 in the Honda has one of the best engine noises I’ve ever heard. Not kidding. I’d still get the Sienna though.

[@margar1983]

We are getting the Carnival. Wanted the Sienna but not a hybrid. When these batteries fail and hybrid systems break, it will cost a small fortune.

[@garrettw99]

@@margar1983 the Carnival is a good choice, but your statement about hybrid batteries isn’t logical at all. Toyota HV batteries cost usually $1500-2000 to replace. They have a 150k mile/10 year warranty. The hybrid fuel economy pays for the cost of a new battery in the end, especially with that warranty. Plus, Toyota’s rarely need a new battery pack before the warranty is up. Taxi drivers get 400k+ miles out of their battery packs because they don’t wear out with mileage. They almost exclusively wear with time or by non-use.

[@margar1983]

@@garrettw99 I’ve been in the auto business for 22 years and I am currently on the warranty side. Yes they do break. A lot. Toyota is one of the best vehicles on the road which is why my daily driver right now is a Tacoma. However what I have personally seen out of the hybrid battery when you reach the warranty period I do not like.

[@garrettw99]

@@margar1983 haven’t 2016+ Tacomas been having transmission problems? If you are part of Toyota’s warranty department, you only see cars that break down, right? Even if the Sienna will need a battery replacement after 150k miles, you will make that money back with gas savings by that point… very very easily.

[@deniscdyck]

We picked up a 2022 Odyssey a couple months back and boy does it sound sweet indeed. And it has some serious power, 90 to 150km/h in a heartbeat to overtake in a two lane highway even with kids + luggage. And those paddles shifters add a lot of fun.

[@deniscdyck]

We went with the 2022 Odyssey after checking out all others. To each their own but we wanted to guarantee a traditional V6 and regular gear box (none of that hybrid or CVT nonsense taking over the industry). And boy the sound of that engine... it's like music... specially when you throw it in "S" and use the paddle shifters for added fun. Driving dynamics is also closer to a regular sedan compared to the other mini vans.

[@bradleyscarreviews]

You just described the carnival also.

[@deniscdyck]

@@bradleyscarreviews except for the engine sound (can't beat an aspirated Vtech on that), paddle shifters and driving dynamic adding a sprinkle of fun. The Carnival is higher off the ground and you definitely feel it on turns or even heavily hitting the gas. The Odyssey is way more planted. The way we felt it the Odyssey closer to a large sedan's dynamic and the Carnival closer to a large SUV's (SUV was Kias goal anyways).

[@markmiller3279]

The Odyssey is quite nice in that way, definitely the driver's choice. Alas, it's efficiency isn't great, but that's just normal for a minivan.

[@seagullsbtn]

Overpriced suvs will keep the minivan alive and popular

[@mavsguy842]

I’ve really been hoping for a series of videos like this. I’m excited to see the next videos. If Honda would come out with a Hybrid, or PHEV, I think it would be even more competitive. I expect Honda to score well in some of the other categories.

[@jbountalas]

I would have preferred you showcased the gas powered Pacifica with AWD, with two rows of stow and go, and talked about the hybrid and its differences.

[@markhesse2928]

The longer hair that is actually combable (?) is a good look😊. Also like the multi-part comparison format. Hope to see more in the future.

[@bigpun4780]

Love this video.... love that the comments are not filled with Odyssey/Sienna owners still chanting "Chrysler is crap" and no resale or reliability based on 90's Chrysler vehicles

[@johnmahler8794]

Love this video format.

[@TheoPhilpot]

This is such an informative video!

[@LoveStallion]

As a Pacifica owner, this video gave me hope that I won't run into major issues for at least the next few years? Hopefully? Maybe? That was always my reservation in buying one even though we love everything else about it more than the competitors. I'd been a loyal Toyota owner for years, but a Pacifica Touring L has more features than a Sienna XLE for thousands of dollars less.

[@jasonhillgiant]

Almost four years and 73000 miles on my Pacifica and I’ve only been to the shop for oil changes and recalls. The best vehicle of any sort I have ever owned.

[@rodrigoge5875]

Tale care of your mopar and it will take care of you

[@claubeth78]

The fuel cost says what you save by going electric but how much will you add to your electric bill a year?

[@DiscoFang]

Can't wait for the minivan mini-series re-release ... Best Minivans, the movie.

[@jeffevey5763]

Love the metrics for cost of ownership! I'm not puritan, I'm willing to consider a hybrid option :P

[@markmiller3279]

How sensible of you. I roll my eyes at the people who still go on about hybrid reliability when Toyota has been making them for decades, and they've been exceptionally reliable. For something like a minivan, with weak gas mileage, a hybrid makes so much sense.

[@stam9241]

Went to four different dealerships locally and no one had any in stock or in the showroom; for ALL of the Brands in this episode except the Chrysler

[@ZeroAlligator]

Love my Pacifica, great van.

[@Sev5454]

I just put a deposit down to order a 2022 Sienna Woodlands in cement. Actually excited about it.

[@markmiller3279]

A shame, but the supply channels are still messed up. The Kia is also quite new

[@SoulFire209]

Yep can't find a sienna hybrid here. Lots of odysseys though.

[@aryehrosenthal2138]

Alex. Great review. By the way the Honda Odyssey is due for a full redesign very soon.

[@yidingzhou5344]

Owned an Odyssey for 5+ years now, albeit only 40k miles. Total 5 oil change for $400 (the first 2 are free so it's really $240) and that's all the maintenance I have to do. I put winter tire on it so have to switch tire on/off every year but that's not part of mandatory maintenance. So I'm not sold on the maintenance/repair part in this video. (75k miles is bit more but that much.)

[@hong99sm]

Exactly what I wanted to see!

[@longochu8588]

Nice to see a comparison dedicated to minivans. I really wish you to include Ford Transit Connect Wagon or to review it at a later time. I think the Ford is really a great contender with a smaller footprint and price tag.

[@jamespenner1412]

We bought a awd pacifica as soon as they came out and we absolutely love it.... even me, a truck guy. One thing that always sounds interesting is the plug in pacifaca. If only they made it with awd with stow n go. That would be ultamite. Some day i guess. GREAT VIDEO AS USUAL!!

[@markmiller3279]

Have to put the battery under the floor. Those suckers are pretty big.

[@gamingwitharlen2267]

they bought the gas version bc only the gas version has AWD@@markmiller3279

[@sunnyguan716]

Love the shirt! Minivans need more appreciation 😂

[@hyrenaj2888]

The people in my local Chinatown love to use Siennas as cargo vans, often with the seats taken out. It might be a small sub-segment, but I get the feeling they'll be switching over to Carnivals in the next 5-10 years (or just hang on to old Siennas)

[@jeretso]

My neighbor posted his 09 sienna and it sold within an hour and buyer shipped it to Africa.

[@curiosityredpill7030]

You think Asians ain’t going to stick to Toyota lol first 😊

[@curiosityredpill7030]

@@jeretso shipping cost must be cheap in some country shipping a car is like paying for two car’s!

[@jeretso]

@@curiosityredpill7030 Some jobs include car shipping cost. Import Taxes on old cars is cheaper. And mechanics prices are a lot less.

[@markmiller3279]

@@curiosityredpill7030 I don't think they'll have anything against a Korean vehicle. I live in San Francisco, with huge numbers of Kias and Hyundais around me, driven by people from China.

[@davesmith3530]

Chrysler costs the same to repair as Toyota over 5 years SCOTTY KILMER HAS ENTERED THE CHAT

[@evac311]

Rev up your repair bills!!!

[@kristians2704]

I think that Scotty Kilmer doesn’t really know anything about new cars. He’s only good with 10+ year old cars

[@nolij7765]

Most engines/transmissions don't go out in 5 years. Even with the 'unreliable' Grand Caravan transmissions going out at 140k miles, that's still after 7-10 years for most people. With how much cheaper you can get an 'unreliable' car new, I don't think there's gonna be an ownership cost difference until at least 10 years of ownership. 10 years of ownership isn't an issue for most new buyers. We bought our 2018 Grand Caravan ex-rental during the pandemic selloff for $15k which was half the price of an Odyssey/Sienna of the same age/mileage. Even if the Dodge blows up when it hits 100k miles, we'll still have gotten years out of it and even if its worth nothing at 100k it still cost us $15k less to buy than a more reliable minivan.

[@James-il3tq]

At the 5 year mark repairs likely similar but resale value much lower on Chrysler. More importantly 5-10 year mark where Chrysler repair bills will be far higher and resale again much lower.

[@garrettw99]

@@kristians2704 nah Scotty’s not good with old cars either. His opinions flip every other video, and most of them are based on his personal experiences, which is a small sample.

[@JacobTJ1]

Alex you offer the Best quality Auto Reviewer on KZbin

[@THirayama]

Thanks Alex! I've been researching a minivan for quite a while now, your video is probably the best video on minivans! keep up the good work!

[@scaresandsparks]

I loved our last Honda Odyssey apart from the crappy electrics. You could take out all the seats and put 8x4 sheets of wood/insulation in. It was soooo flexible. Now we have a stupid 7seat SUV (QX60) that is so small inside I had to buy a roof box for family trips. And it wobbles about so much on long twisty journeys the kids have to take anti-sickness pills. SUV's suck. Minivans rule!

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Give your editor a big raise! As far as minivans are concerned, AWD Sienna is the winner.

[@Matthew-ip6xl]

The new sienna has some of the cheapest interior quality in the segment and lacks true refinement with its tin can feel and an engine/trans that feels like they belong in a Corolla. I’d take any of the others before the sienna.

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@Matthew-ip6xl same. Camry feels like a tin can as well. I hate Toyota. Go Chrysler.

[@markmiller3279]

I wish it's powertrain was more powerful. Performance is OK in the flats and lightly loaded, but for those in hilly areas or who want a family vacation vehicle, it's not ideal. The Pacifica gets that balance right, with plug-in efficiency for the daily grind, and an adequately powerful engine when needed.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@markmiller3279 The Peugeot Pacifica will have one third the lifespan of a Toyota.

[@ZapFlashD]

"Finding The Best Minivan" You already got me hooked at "Minivan". If I had to pick one, it might be the Chrysler Pacifica. As of now I can't figure out if the Kia Carnival should be tied with the Pacifica or just below it on my list.

[@devaannamalai]

Alex, there is no $3500 incentive for Pacifica. Most dealers in Atlanta area don’t have hybrids on stock and don’t know when they will get more. A few vehicles coming in are sold at MSRP now.

[@reaality3860]

Well done, as usual, Alex!

[@zschudrowitz155]

Im glad you added the line “you have to pay $7,500 in taxes to get the $7,500 tax credit”. When we shopped the insurance was noticably higher for the Pacifica compared to the Honda. Is there an insurance comparisons source by vehicle? I imagine that’d be a harder dataset to gather.

[@mountainhobo]

Wait, Alex, so the Pacifica (non-hybrid) and the Voyager did not make it into the numbers comparison? Or were they altogether removed from the comparison? It would be a pity, I find Pacifica's easy stow-away of both rows of seats quite appealing.

[@finalmage6]

Had to go look up the Voyager just to confirm you weren't messing with us...Also note that the entire Chrysler lineup consists of two Pacifica models, one Voyager model, and the 300...

[@ThAsSq30]

hi alex - great job and i think you should review Toyota Alphard - the king of minivan in other parts of the world. i bet it could easily beat these selections.

[@mnelson505]

Not being able to tow eliminated the pacifica hybrid for me, although I'm not sure I could've convinced myself to buy a Chrysler anyway due to reputation. Probably will buy a sienna awd eventually.

[@MountainSalsa]

Ty. Love the shirt too.

[@Steve-wo9uy]

I use my Prius Prime (plug in) for 27 miles one way daily commute (54 miles round way), that thing can drive pure EV for about 24 to 27 miles. I charge every night at home, and got free outlet at work. My 15,000 miles fuel + electricity spend is only 350 to 400 dollar. My current mileage is 43,000 miles, and I only spent total about $1000 on fuel and electricity.....I guess my point is, if I got the hybrid Pacifica, my fuel spend is similar...by the way, say gas price at $3 per gallon (actually more like $3.6) if you drive a small car with 30 MPG, your cost at 43,000 miles is $5,000. if you drive a pickup with 17 MPG, you cost at 43,000 miles is about $9,000. The sale of Prius (and all hybrids) went up crazy in past 2 years due to the gas price change

[@Profoundaj]

Everything looks great on paper for the Pacifica, but the problem I see with it is that it's still a Chrysler and it's probably going to be in the shop more than any other vehicle on the list and it's going to end up costing you money just because it's probably the least reliable. I definitely would like to see how it holds up after 5 years.

[@taMeska]

I knew someone with an older odyssey who rented a brand new Pacifica for a road trip, they hated it. People who buy Pacificas are first time minivan buyers.

[@Profoundaj]

@@taMeska sounds about right

[@Tully3674]

Good, informative video that kept my attention (and I don't need a minivan). Thanks Alex.

[@qbtc]

I'm one of those that have over 90% of my miles in EV mode on my Pacifica Hybrid. I fill my tank 4 times a year and only because the computer forces me to use up all the gas every few months or so. I chose all the high end upgrades and the $8500 in fed and state rebates paid for those upgrades. It was a no brainer. Pacifica Hybrid all the way.

[@jaydubau8755]

Went with a Sienna. No complaints.

[@taMeska]

Sienna is basically THE solid option, with only the Odyssey being a slightly different and more expensive alternative.

[@soulside]

Hey Alex, have you heard any chatter or speculation on a Sienna Prime in the near future? Based on the demand of the RAV4 Prime you would hope Toyota is at least considering it

[@MrKillerRC]

Yup. That’s the main reason I bought the Pacifica. I love the plug in. I do lots of short trips on EV, so I rarely have to gas up.

[@garrettw99]

I’m not totally sure, but I think that given the shortage of RAV4 Primes they are struggling to source parts for it. Especially for the larger battery. I would think the RAV4 Prime would be a huge moneymaker if they had enough of them.

[@markmiller3279]

It would be nice, for sure. I hope the battery supplies get straightened out soon so it would at least become possible.

[@runslowtorunfast6528]

Having just ordered a Sienna I am really curious how the EV mode works. Can I run on just electric if I am only going a few miles?

[@carenthusiast1629]

Awesomeness

[@markcatt3222]

Dads will choose the non-hybrid V6 revving engine sound with Sports mode and paddle shifter Honda Odyssey, Moms will choose the other minivans, Needless to say which Minivan is park in my garage right now :-)

[@FARFolomew]

No I rather think you do need to say it, because I'm not sure if you're poking fun at the public's seemingly irrational notion of image over utility and efficiency or if you're genuinely on the bandwagon of the minivan negative stigma. So which is it, are you being smart and funny or .... Being a man, I might presume the former, but then again now I'M being sexist, LOL ;-)

[@jillianj310]

This is a really great comparison, I just wish you also compared the non hybrid Pacifica. It is really a different vehicle than the hybrid and also a good contender against the two gas options.

[@abcdLeeXY]

Saw a kia carnival in person recently. It looks better than any economy CUVs out there. Hope my kids start to play soccer soon so I'll be eligible to get one

[@danh655]

Rest in peace Nissan Quest

[@BWayNew]

Hey Alex! I live in a rural area and my wife only commutes about 5 miles a day. However we take 440mile road trips several times a year. We're trying to pick between the Sienna and Pacifica Hybrid. We don't live in the mountains anymore and most of the driving would be South Georgia and Florida so hills aren't too much concern. Which of these two vans would you suggest based on the type of driving we're doing on fairly flat terrain? Also thanks for the great reviews!

[@gamingwitharlen2267]

Honestly, both are great, if you drove a bit more per day and took fewer road trips the Chrysler would easily win but in you're case, the Sienna gets better mpg overall with gas and electricity on those long road trips. Overall they probably are both great options since with the Chrysler you can just drive the 5 miles with EV mode while on the other hand, the Sienna would get better mpg on those longer road trips. I would say it's your choice in the end, both are great options.

[@adamesd3699]

I want a minivan, and with a growing family I sort of need a minivan. But each of these has one or more significant weaknesses. Chrysler Pacifica: I don’t trust Chrysler reliability, especially on complicated vehicles. Reading owners’ reviews didn’t make me feel any more confident. Crossed off the list. Kia Carnival: Very new, unknown reliability, reading new owners’ experiences not encouraging. Also, low availability and prices over MSRP. Crossed off the list. Toyota Sienna: This was the one I was most interested in. Attracted by Toyota hybrid reliability, and mpg. Interior was fine. Liked the tech. Don’t care that the 2nd row seats don’t come out, I’m hauling family and luggage, not plywood sheets. But the drive was really meh. Going uphill felt weak and loud, and that was with just me in the vehicle. With a full load of family and luggage, this could get annoying. Also, why does Toyota not give the option for 8 seats on mid and upper trims, especially if you want AWD? I think the only way to get 8 seats and AWD is on the base LE. So you lose out on a lot of the useful tech available in the upper trims, like the 360 degree camera, which I consider mandatory with today’s large minivans. I don’t necessarily expect to frequently have 8 people in the vehicle, but when we go on trips, it’s 5 people and a lot of luggage and gear, so we’d need to fold down the 3rd row. With only two seats in the second row, it turns the vehicle into a 4-seater, which is ridiculous. So reluctantly crossed it off the list. Honda Odyssey: INCREDIBLE to drive. I was shocked, kept thinking “this is a minivan?!?!” Also, the interior is really good and clever. And it has an 8 seat option for all trims. And can take out the middle seat in the 2nd row if you want to, for easier access to the 3rd row. But the Odyssey doesn’t have a 360 degree camera in any trim, just the backup camera. For crying out loud, Honda! Also, the Odyssey has basically no ground clearance. It’s almost a joke. Plus a very large turning radius. Combined with the lack of a 360 degree camera, just asking for lots of small nicks and scrapes in parking lots. So crossed off the Odyssey as well. Will see what 2022 brings.

[@markmiller3279]

You're not the first to find the Sienna marginal to drive. I love the idea of a hybrid minivan, but think Toyota put too much emphasis on efficiency, at the expense of performance. The Pacifica seems better than most Chrysler products, but I know what you mean.

[@bigby6023]

I actually leased it and got the 7500 tax credit upfront as a discount from Chrysler, also they didnt charge me sales tax until after and i bought out the car on an early lease buyout

[@Test9383]

Alex is the GOAT.

[@beowulfgrendel24]

Kia is bumper to bumper 60,000 miles a 100,000 powertrain. You can keep the 100,000 power train if bought certified used at a Kia dealer

[@davidr9876]

Long term cost of the hybrids over 10-15 years should probably include $8k for a replacement battery. That makes it a lot closer to the total cost of the Honda and Kia.

[@FoYo1005]

I love minivans' utility and I love their sliding side doors. I just wish they were still MINIvans. Each of these is ENORMOUS. I would have a hard time fitting it in my garage. They are also very pricey because of being so feature-packed. I don't see either of these trends reversing. I also hate their option structure. Why am I stuck with a 2 seat second row if I want a surround-view camera and cooled leather seats available on the top trim?

[@markmiller3279]

The longer version of the original Chrysler-Plymouth minivan back in the 1980s was almost exactly the same size inside as these - big enough to handle a 4x8 sheet of plywood. These probably are a little longer in the nose, and a few inches wider, for crash protection, but that's about the only size difference. Minivans have grown far less than cars have.

[@FoYo1005]

@@markmiller3279 according to Wikipedia, the first gen plymouth voyager in the long version was 190 inches. The 2021 Honda odyssey is 205 inches. That's about 5 inches longer than my 3 row crossover.

[@tigerrider6711]

The best minivan is a $2k beater so when you pull into Walmart or Costco and there’s a cart left in the parking spot you ram it out of the way without batting an eye.

[@anishsomani]

Cannot find the tshirt on the merch store in adult sizes.. would definitely want to support this video series

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Its at the bottom of the AoA Winter Collection. "The Answer Is Always Minivan" available in regular, v neck and Champion brand.

[@dylano7242]

The best mini van for reliability #1 2011 to 2019 toyota sienna #2 1999 to 2003 toyota sienna

[@PriestsandParamedics]

My wife and I cross-shopped the Sienna and the Carnival and unfortunately the local Kia dealer said they were selling them at $5-9k over MSRP because of supply restrictions. We ended up getting a Sienna Platinum cause we loved the hybrid powertrain and the interior design, although the Kia was definitely a close second.

[@miguelircontar]

I wonder whatever happened to the Nissan Quest lol

[@Henry_Jones]

This is Kias 2nd shot at making a suv looking minivan. 1st was the 2015 Sedona. They shoulda learned from GMs 2005 mistake the first time

[@joshua.harazin]

GM's mistake is that the Uplander looked like a fat platypus.

[@markmiller3279]

Everybody learned from GMs mistake. Those suckers were just plain homely, if not as bad as the earlier "Dustbuster" minivans.

[@dtay8913]

I'd have to go with the Chrysler. It's not the absolute best in any segment but it does excellent in all categories. It has a hybrid if you want good mpg (Competes with Toyota), it has the only stow n go in the segment (best cargo in segment), it has an excellent luxurious interior (competes with Kia) and an all wheel drive option

[@pryme2013]

Worst reliability too

[@benjaminwayneb]

Pacifica is a Fiat platform with Fiat wiring and Fiat electronics.

[@dtay8913]

@@pryme2013 Did you not watch the video, Alex literally addresses this.

[@terryl6706]

It evidently takes a lot of effort to watch a video for Scotty’s fans.

[@evac311]

Yes, although the hybrid does not offer the stow n go

[@Peter-mx6mn]

My 2020 AWD Pacifica is now averaging 16 mpg in city :p

[@ShaiyanHossain]

thats horrible a GLS450 gets the same and its a far larger and heavier car

[@shamanthjilla]

After listening to this video, I wonder why so few Pacificas sold last year (and even fewer Pacifica Hybrids)

[@benjaminwayneb]

Pacifica is a Fiat platform with Fiat wiring and Fiat electronics.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Pacifica had a refresh and as a result production stopped, then restarted with the new model. Generally speaking this happens with any car that gets a significant change or redesign.

[@prettydontcovercrazy]

There’s the Fiat thing of course, the Consumer Reports reliability surveys, and for me, the word of my mechanic and my auto broker…avoid the Chrysler. Alex, while I love his informative videos, is the only one that hear singing Chrysler praises. I will agree with Alex though on minivans as a whole, they really are the best option for many and I find it unlikely that I’ll be replacing my minivan with anything other than another minivan.

[@shamanthjilla]

@@prettydontcovercrazy I just got the extended warranty directly from Chrysler and the dealership I bought it doesn't seem shitty prima facie.

[@Threxx]

My kids are older and I'm not considering a new minivan to replace our 2014 Odyssey (that has served us well for 100k miles). So why am I watching a 5 part AoA mini-series on minivans? I have no idea, but I am...

[@SoulFire209]

Because dadlife lives forever

[@edwinyurigattorno]

Solo Toyota fue a la clase de Diseño moderno? 😹 Los otros modelos están anticuados 🙈

[@dygardion9130]

If Kia didn’t want to give the minivan image they would have hidden the rear door track better

[@Ajmc2014]

Yea, thats really bizarre.

[@TheKasai23]

That’s kinda minuscule compared to the overall design…

[@dygardion9130]

@@TheKasai23 I mean when I see that I see minivan, not suv 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TheKasai23]

@@dygardion9130 because that’s what it is, but compared to the competition it’s design resembles more of a truck…

[@makatron]

Once Toyota comes up with a Sienna Prime with 35 - 40 EV range it'll make loads of sense just get that and have the peace of mind of owning a Toyota that will last and hold its value.

[@La-yt1wr]

Pacifica or Odyssey for me I don't care about what you people think when it comes to reliability.

[@dtay8913]

Same, people copy and paste the same snotty Kilmer comments and don't even watch the video. Alex literally addresses reliability concerns.

[@bradleyscarreviews]

Kia carnival best

[@alanmay7929]

@@dtay8913 nonsense, if hou watch scotty kilmer videos, he has been talking about toyota issues too, there is no perfect brand so stfu!!

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@alanmay7929 no, he’s on camera saying buy Toyota’s that BURN OIL and Honda’s that have trans issues and leak power steering AND OIL. he says “just add it in” . That’s not reliability and that’s not him being honest.

[@alanmay7929]

@@Natethegreat200c bullshit, he also talks about rust issues, starter placement in toyota v8 engines, and sooo many other issues on toyotas.

[@bradyb9929]

Sienna all day long

[@JamesR1986]

Having the Carnival as an add on to this series is a stroke of accidental genius, it doesn't fit with the other three.

[@jayhiggins5239]

How so?

[@JamesR1986]

@@jayhiggins5239 I feel like the first 3 are more traditional minivans designed for young families whereas the Carnival is designed either for older smaller families or for adults

[@jayhiggins5239]

@@JamesR1986 Funny because I believe there is a 4 row 10 Pass version of the Carnival for Asian markets. So KIA could have a different configutration for NA.

[@JamesR1986]

@@jayhiggins5239 the US version has second row pilot seats that go so far back they make the 3rd row unusable, and a lack of kid friendly amenities that the other mini vans have

[@jayhiggins5239]

@@JamesR1986 Right

[@jayhiggins5239]

The sienna does drive like a Bus.

[@deniscdyck]

And the Odyssey like a higher Accord with a sweet sounding and powerful Vtech V6 + paddle shifters for added fun.

[@ttgnam81]

Alex, I think you underestimated the out of warranty cost for Chrysler. Things can go wrong and repair cost could be thousands based on their track record.

[@naveenthemachine]

Ales loves fca products so he’d argue that it could be a random occurrence. Even Toyota’s could have those kind of issues

[@ttgnam81]

@@naveenthemachine but the chance of 75k miles toyota having engine or trans issues far less than Chrysler. They are simply not the same. Most likely Alex never drives his Dodge past 60k miles so he is assuming there won't be such an issue.

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@ttgnam81 he said he’s always had his cars over 120k miles and has owned a Chrysler before and will push his new srt Durango that long he says. Also, all of Chrysler’s engines are bullet proof. 2.4 1.4t 3.6 and the hemis. You will have to worry about battery replacement cost in this ugly Toyota, however. Very unfortunate.

[@Natethegreat200c]

No he didn’t. You just watch way to much Scotty Kilmer. Chrysler Pacifica has a nice track record I’m on forums and fb groups.

[@mountainhobo]

@@naveenthemachine "Ales loves fca products" -- Alex goes by facts and numbers, not by hysterics and arm waving. To each his own.

[@ccpout9210]

pacifica beats all of them.

[@kokake]

Did he serious get 4 cars and ppt the half of the video?

[@longochu8588]

Are sliding doors on minivans really more superior than the conventional swing-open motion? It moves about 1' outward. In a tight parking space the sliding door completely blocks the access from the rear, while a person might still squeeze around a swing door.

[@markmiller3279]

It doesn't pop out nearly that much, more like 6-8". Try opening a conventional car door 8" and see whether you can get in. It doesn't matter that you can get between the two cars if you can't get into the car.

[@yazars]

Anyone else waiting for a: 1. BEV minivan 2. Whose battery can be used as a battery backup for your house?

[@markmiller3279]

Given the upcoming F150 Lightning, I don't think we're too far away. An Expedition with the same powertrain would be a cinch.

[@yazars]

@@markmiller3279 yep, that's why I'm eagerly waiting for what's coming up in the next few years!

[@sirnubenegra]

He looks like grü

[@DaddyDan77]

Toyota - 36 mpg, take it or leave it.

[@dlinares2006]

Time to hire a camera men.

[@daniel3144]

The cost should also consider the possible battery replacement cost for the hybrids which could be thousands thousands dollars.

[@prettydontcovercrazy]

I don’t think you’ll run into those costs within the first five or even ten years. Plus I’ve seen warranties for up to 10 years on the batteries.

[@daniel3144]

@@prettydontcovercrazy the average ownership of a vehicle is around 11years, battery will probably need to be replaced in 10years or so? So it is something many people will face and it would be helpful to consider this factor into ownership cost

[@markmiller3279]

Battery lives on hybrids are quite long. Most hybrids never need new batteries - they get old and die of something else first. The idea that they'd all wear out in 100,000 miles was a criticism of old Priuses that turned out to be untrue. Batteries don't just die, they gradually weaken. The vehicle can still be driven, though they lose performance and efficiency. Even when they get pretty bad they can often have the bad cells replaced, not the whole battery. The idea they'd all need thousands of dollars of work as they aged is seriously out of date.