HONDA
ODYSSEY |
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TOYOTA
SIENNA |
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CHRYSLER
TOWN & COUNTRY |
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NISSAN
QUEST |
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| Base price |
| $25,000 to $34,000 |
$23,440 to $37,445 |
$20,995 to $35,750 |
$25,250 to $33,550 |
| Performance |
| The strongest engine, peerless handling and top economy put the Odyssey out front. |
Creamy ride and operation but a bit soft and squishy compared with Honda. |
Compliant ride and under-rated handling; the 215-hp V-6 lacks oomph, lags rivals. |
Terrific V-6, precise handling, but high-effort steering overdoes the sport. |
| Interior |
| Ultra-refined, faultless ergonomics, an oasis for families of every size. |
Warm, inviting cabin approaches Lexus levels of features and craftsmanship. |
Upgraded cabin, excellent seats up front. Quiet and competent. |
Trendy design, poorly placed controls, chintzy plastics -- the kids may want an apology. |
| Notable features |
| New split-folding third-row seat, big safety list, V-6 shuts down cylinders to save fuel. |
Available back-up camera, comprehensive safety, every imaginable option. |
Clever stow-and-go seats fold flat in both second and third rows. |
Break-the-mold styling, fold-flat seats in both rear rows, the roomiest interior. |
| Bottom line |
| Brilliantly designed, the high-value Honda becomes MONEY's top-rated minivan. |
Every bit a Toyota -- well-mannered beautifully built; gets pricey with options. |
Nicely redesigned for '05 but not as potent or polished as the Honda or the Toyota. |
The Quest strives to be different but drops the soccer ball in overall refinement. |
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