I Used to Think the Honda Odyssey Was the Best Family Van, but These 10 Options Are Incredible

For many years now, I've been towing my family around in a Honda Odyssey. The vehicle has been good to us, especially as our family has expanded. The Odyssey has plenty of interior space and good gas mileage. However, as time goes on, better vehicles are appearing on the scene. The newest models on the market have made us start to think about what the best family van really is.

If a van won't fit your needs, then an SUV might be better for the job. Either way, we have a list of 10 different vans and SUVs that are the best of the best on the market right now. Check them out, and if one catches your eye, head to a dealership for a test drive.

The first step to finding the best family van is to think about your budget and whether you want to purchase a new or used model. There are points to consider for both. New vehicles are typically free of issues when you drive them off of the lot and you may get a vehicle with good gas mileage, but you'll pay more. Used vehicles can be nice because they are typically more affordable, but they may not last as long. Weigh the pros and cons and go from there.

When you're looking for a van to rival the Honda Odyssey, you will want to think about the features and bells and whistles that you want. Newer vehicles will be loaded with safety features, which may be good if you have younger kids. If you travel a lot, you may also want a high-quality display and GPS system. If you have a larger family, you may want a vehicle with additional rows of seating. Finally, choose between a gas and an electric vehicle. Consider the perks of each vehicle before your purchase.

Finally, on this list, we'll be talking about both vans and SUVs. Think about what you need for your family. A van is good if you have a large brood and you go to a lot of events because you'll have all of that extra space. An SUV is also a good choice, especially if you plan to tow a trailer or equipment on a regular basis. When you're choosing between the two, also consider the fuel efficiently. If you don't need a larger vehicle, then don't get it because you will pay more for fuel even if you don't need it.

When it comes to choosing the best family van, it's essential that you find a vehicle that's safe. Luckily, the automobile industry has been prioritizing safety over the last several years. Now, just about every newer vehicle is equipped with lane departure alerts, tech that alleviates distracted driving, more advanced air bags, and more. Do your research before purchasing a vehicle. Ensure that it has the safety bells and whistles that you need.

Rated as the best family van by Car and Driver, the 2025 Volkswagen has a very modern style that will fill you with pride as you drive down the street. It has seven seats and a nice interior, and it can go from zero-60 mph in 6.7 seconds. That can be helpful for the days that you're late for soccer practice. The van is also loaded with features that will keep your family safe during long road trips.

Your search for the best family van may end with the newest Chrysler Voyager. For just under $40k, at the time of this writing, you can get this sleek van that has a seating capacity for seven. There's plenty of head and leg room, so you can keep this vehicle in your family as your kids get older. It also has great safety features and it gets good gas mileage.

The new 2025 Toyota Sienna models are top notch, and they're great for families. It has many technical bells and whistles, including a large infotainment system with a touchscreen so you can find directions with ease. It's also a fast car, getting you from zero to sixty in 7.5 seconds. The Sienna features ten airbags, a 360-degree exterior camera, lane departure alerts, and more. New models also come with a three-year warranty.

While the Honda Odyssey is nice, many people are flocking to Kia. The company has really upped its game over the years. The 2025 Kia Carnival starts at just over $40,000, so it's affordable for new parents. It also has a sleek design that makes it look more like a powerful machine, so you won't be embarrassed driving it around. You can get a hybrid model that uses both electricity and fuel.

For the more traditional minivan look, check out the powerful and dependable Chrysler Pacifica. You can get the newest model in either gas or hybrid, and they're both great. This is a quick van that can quickly get from zero to 60. Plus, it has an incredible fuel economy and is super safe. The Pacifica also has many cubbies, slide-out bins, and cupholders so you can prevent spills and clutter.

Mazda is the brand that many people turn to when they want something sleeker than the Honda Odyssey. The CX-70 gets high marks for having a luxurious interior, tons of cargo space, strong powertrain options, and easy and responsive handling. The vehicle sits five, so it's better for newer families. Gas milage is 23 city and 28 highway.

The hefty Kia Telluride is a great choice for folks who want something a little more substantial than the Odyssey, and it's a powerful ride. It has a huge, modern interior cabin, easy handling on almost all terrain, a vast infotainment system, and more. Plus, it seats 7-8 people, so you can fit all of your kids and more. The fuel economy could be better, but if you don't drive all the time, it will even itself out.

If you only have one or two children but you want to be prepared for the future, then a Hyundai Tucson may be right for you. This is a powerful vehicle that provides a gentle ride, a roomy cabin, and tons of cargo space. The interior has been newly refined, so you can feel classy while you bring your family back and forth.

Another great SUV for growing families, the Toyota Highlander has something for everyone. It's very easy to drive, and itprovides a gentle ride, which is great, especially for newborns. The SUV also has roomy first and second rows, which is great because it can seat seven comfortably. Plus, the Highlander has all-wheel drive, so you'll never find yourself stuck.

Jeep has always been one of the most dependable brands, and the newest model is no exception. There's plenty of room inside for kids and their equipment. It also has an upscale interior, so you can drive in class without paying more. Unlike the Honda Odyssey and many other vehicles, the Jeep provides ample towing capacity, so you can go camping and enjoy other outdoor activities without concern.