Best Minivan in Canada: Complete 2021 Guide
Looking for the best minivan in Canada? You’re not alone. Many drivers now see minivans as the most practical and versatile family vehicles on the road.
In this guide, we break down the best minivan in Canada options and help you choose the right one. While SUVs remain popular, modern minivans offer more space, better flexibility, and advanced features.
Years ago, drivers viewed minivans as basic family haulers. However, things have changed. Today’s models deliver strong performance, smart technology, and even premium comfort.
So, which one should you choose? Let’s take a closer look.
We’re jumping into a CarHub rundown. Full disclosure, CarHub is a licenced dealer of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles, so we carry a large number of Chrysler Pacificas and Dodge Grand Caravans. That being said, we maintain an unbiased approach when discussing vehicles.
Chrysler Pacifica
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica pushes the limits of what a minivan can be. It blends luxury, performance, and smart design.
Under the hood, it features a 3.6L V6 engine with 287 horsepower. This setup handles daily driving with ease. In addition, an available hybrid model improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions.
Unlike many SUVs, the Pacifica uses a low centre of gravity. As a result, it feels stable and smooth on the road. Its independent suspension also improves handling, especially on longer drives.
Inside, the cabin feels upscale. The Pinnacle trim offers Nappa leather seats and even second-row lumbar pillows. These small details make a big difference in comfort.
Cargo space is another strong point. You get:
- 32.3 cubic feet behind all seats
- 140.5 cubic feet with seats folded
Thanks to Stow ’n Go seating, you can fold seats flat into the floor within seconds.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna remains a reliable and practical choice.
For 2021, Toyota made a bold move. It now offers the Sienna only as a hybrid. A 2.5L engine works with electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup improves fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
All-wheel drive is also available. Because of this, the Sienna handles well in different weather conditions. Its multi-link rear suspension keeps the ride smooth and controlled.
Inside, the Sienna focuses on passenger comfort. It offers:
- Up to 101 cubic feet of cargo space
- Sliding second-row seats for easy access
- Available footrests for added comfort
With 18 cup holders, it’s clearly designed for families on the go.
Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey continues to stand out with strong performance and smart features.
It runs on a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth acceleration.
On the road, the Odyssey feels powerful yet controlled. It handles both city driving and highway cruising with confidence.
Inside, the cabin stays quiet and comfortable. The Magic Slide second-row seats move in multiple directions, making it easier to adjust seating layouts.
However, removing these seats requires effort. Unlike fold-flat systems, you must lift them out manually.
Technology adds to its appeal. An in-cabin camera lets you monitor rear passengers easily. The infotainment system includes an 8-inch screen, along with rear entertainment options.
Chrysler Dodge Grand Caravan
After three decades of being Canada’s favourite family mover, the Dodge Grand Caravan made a leap to a new name this year as the 2021 Chrysler Grand Caravan. The name change did nothing to affect the incredible value that the Grand Caravan has been known for since its inception.
Standard features in the Chrysler Grand Caravan continue to include seven-passenger seating, push-button start, keyless entry, and the Uconnect 4 system, with a seven-inch touch screen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone capability.
Under the hood, the Chrysler Grand Caravan features a 287-hp 3.6-liter, workhorse of a V-6 engine. The heart of the Grand Caravan is good for carrying you around town or kicking up the revs to hit the highway. If you’re in the Grand Caravan’s performance as a trailer hauler, you can read our rundown of the Dodge Grand Caravan towing capacity.
Bells and whistles that are available in the 2021 Chrysler Grand Caravan include 17-inch aluminum wheels, an active grille, automatic headlights, body-coloured mirror caps, and power-adjustable front seats, with eight driver and four-passenger positions to choose from.
The Winner?
With four respected vehicles up for judgement in this round of the CarHub comparison series, the conclusion must be met that each of these excellent minivans offers comfort, reliability, practicality and affordability that has become the trademark of the minivan. With features that vary from vehicle to vehicle dependent on their respective brand, the real work is delving into what suits your needs in a minivan. Is it towing capacity? Passenger comfort? Performance and handling? Safety? Whatever the answer is, each of the vans reviewed will be up to the task but there may be one that matches your needs more than any of the others.
Interested in checking out a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, 2021 Chrysler Grand Caravan or (if available) 2021 Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey today? You can book an appointment to speak with a CarHub Product Advisor today or stop in at either of the CarHub locations to speak with us in person!
