The minivan segment isn't the most popular vehicle segment in America, but it fills an important niche for drivers who want more cabin space than other vehicles can provide. Automakers have modernized minivans, creating models with standard hybrid powertrains and adding plenty of appealing features.
The best minivans of 2026 are versatile, have seating that's easy to adjust and come with features that aren't typical in other vehicles. Here are the best minivans of 2026 so far, based on vehicle testing from USA TODAY Cars and segment rankings.
The 2026 Toyota Sienna is the quintessential road-trip van
Minivans are attractive for road trips because they come with seating for seven to eight occupants, depending on the model, and have plenty of cabin space. The Toyota Sienna is arguably the best road-trip
minivan on the market because of its standard hybrid powertrain.
Every new Sienna comes with a hybrid powertrain setup, so gas mileage is maximized. The van achieves a whopping 36 miles per gallon combined and has an 18.0-gallon tank, so it can travel for 648 miles on a single fill-up. It can cover an extreme distances on a road trip without needing to refuel.
The 2026 Toyota Sienna starts at $41,320. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors to produce 245 horsepower. The Sienna is known for longevity and retaining its value over time.
Kia's Carnival Hybrid boasts amazing standard features
I recently tested the 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige on a road trip from New Jersey to Maryland with a full cabin of passengers. The configuration I tested has second-row captain's chairs that were easy to slide over for third-row access and slide back over for maximum second-row comfort.
The 2027 Kia Carnival Hybrid (the latest model year) starts at $41,490. It uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to produce 242 horsepower. The Carnival Hybrid earns 34 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway.
It comes standard with heated front seats, SynTex seat trim and a massive 12.3-inch infotainment display. Blind-spot detection, front and rear parking sensors and auto emergency braking are also standard.
The 2027 Honda Odyssey is a van made for drivers
Honda's van features seats that are easy to stow and arrange, but its powertrain is best enjoyed by drivers, not passengers. The Odyssey's mighty V6 and responsive steering make it engaging to drive.
The 2027 Honda Odyssey starts at $43,195, making it more expensive than the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival Hybrid. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine to produce 280 horsepower. The Odyssey achieves 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.
Honda's minivan has a maximum cargo capacity of 140.7 cubic feet. If you're looking for a traditional non-hybrid minivan that's fun to dive and has plenty of cabin and cargo space, the Honda Odyssey is a great option.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The best minivans of 2026 so far include a Toyota and Honda
