2016 Honda Odyssey vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

With several automakers (Ford, for instance) completely bowing out of the minivan segment entirely to focus on building more crossovers, interest in vans has tapered off in recent years.

The Chrysler Town & Country and its nearly identical Dodge Grand Caravan sibling are the Odyssey's closest rivals, offering innovative seating options as well as class-leading entertainment features and good performance.

But the Dodge and Chrysler minivans are lacking compared to the Odyssey and the latest Toyota Sienna.

The Sienna has somewhat better acceleration, as well as comparable features and more available luxury items at a lower price, but it's a heavier-feeling vehicle that doesn't handle as well—and its seating setup simply isn't as handy nor as flexible as the Honda or Chrysler vans.

The Kia Sedona recently returned to the market, and while spacious and comfortable it's somewhat thin on innovation.

The Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex aren't minivans, but they can be cross-shopped as a close alternative.

Their wide-opening, front-hinged back doors make these three-row models great picks for big-family duty, without the van stigma.