The minivan segment has definitely shrunk considerably in recent years. Two of the last models left are the Toyota Sienna and the Chrysler Pacifica.
These are two strong picks that have been around for a decent amount of time. Which model should you consider? Let’s find out.
Best For Families
In general, minivans are the ideal vehicles for families. They have tons of room inside, easy access, plenty of cargo space, and a car-like ride. You can’t beat the power sliding doors for getting in and out. If you don’t need the towing power of a big SUV, a minivan is an excellent alternative that still provides a comfortable interior and lots of room.
To open up this battle between minivans, the Toyota Sienna will set you back a little less than the Pacifica. The Sienna starts at $36,885 for the base model, while the Pacifica starts at $37,270. If you go for the highest trims, the Toyota Sienna still comes in at roughly $2,000 less than the Pacifica.
Dependability for a family vehicle is a must, and the Toyota Sienna comes out on top of the Pacifica for predicted reliability. The Pacifica gets a J.D. Power score of 67 out of 100, but the Sienna tops that with 74.
Interior Quality and Space
Both minivans offer pleasant interiors and comfortable seats, but the Chrysler Pacifica does deliver a few comfortable extras that the Sienna doesn’t include as standard features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard on the Pacifica, but only optional on the Sienna. Both minivans otherwise sit seven or eight, depending on whether you get captain’s chairs for the second row.
The Toyota Sienna has slightly more room behind the third row than the Pacifica, but the Pacifica has more room behind the other two rows, which gives it a higher cargo capacity overall.
When it comes to interior quality, the Toyota Sienna prevails over the Pacifica with a more upscale design and more soft-touch materials. The Sienna’s cabin also has a more intuitive layout with many storage cubbies for small items.
Power and Performance
The Toyota Sienna comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that makes 245 horsepower with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and dual electric motors. However, the Pacifica comes with a standard 3.6-liter V6 that makes 287 horsepower, which gives it a bit more acceleration than the Sienna.
The Sienna’s hybrid powertrain is more efficient than the Pacifica, however. The FWD Sienna delivers 36 MPG for both city and highway driving. It goes down to 35 MPG only in the city with the AWD Sienna. The Pacifica only manages 28 MPG on the highway with a FWD layout.
The Pacifica does edge out the Sienna for towing ability at 3,600 pounds vs 3,500 pounds. However, these are average numbers for minivans, and if you really need to tow a lot, you’d be better off with a full-size SUV.
Both minivans are good choices, but the Toyota Sienna wins our head-to-head for its lower price point, better reliability scores, and more efficient powertrain.