Minivans may have their detractors. Too boxy, they say. Mommy-mobile. Boring as dirt. But you can let the naysayers enjoy their snooty little jokes while you and your passengers laugh all the way to the mall, because no other type of vehicle is as adept at carrying you, your family, and your stuff in comfort.
Both of our recommended minivans offer plenty of kit and kaboodle to keep rear passengers occupied, a reasonably easy-to-use third row seat that folds into the cargo floor when not in use, a full list of safety features, and peerless crash test scores. Considering their car-like handling characteristics, cargo versatility, high driving positions, and greater fuel economy than many SUVs, there’s no better method of transport for larger families.
About Vehix Buying Guide and JDPower.com Ratings
Vehix 2010 Minivan Buying Guides feature ratings by JDPower.com. Learn more about the criteria and ratings.
There are two vehicles highlighted in the 2010 Minivan Buying Guide. All vehicles are listed in alphabetical order.
It may be getting a little long in the tooth, having last been redesigned for 2005, but no one should shop for a minivan without putting the 2010 Honda Odyssey (view photos) on their list. It’s remarkably agile, with lively handling and off-the-line pep from its 244-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6. Combined with a lengthy list of available family-friendly amenities, entertainment features, and third-row seats that stow effortlessly, its usefulness will have you wondering how you ever got along without one. It may be pricier than other minivans, especially when accessorized with goodies, but the durable Odyssey has very high resale values.
Note to shoppers: 2011 should see a brand-new Odyssey, so if you’re into the latest and greatest the automotive world has to offer, you may want to consider holding off your purchase for a year. Then again, pricing will likely increase next year so 2010 may be the year to park a Honda minivan in your garage.
- No. 1-ranked Minivan in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study (IQS)
- 17 city/25 highway miles per gallon
- MSRP: $26,805 - $40,755
Research the 2010 Honda Odyssey
View the 2010 Honda lineup
