10 Family Vans With Max Cargo Space For Your Next Road Trip

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey has long reigned as one of the top family haulers, beloved for its practicality, versatility, and reputation for reliability. With spacious dimensions and clever cargo solutions, the Odyssey shines as an ideal minivan for Canadian families.

Behind the third row, the Odyssey offers a generous 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to a cavernous 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and a massive 144.9 cubic feet with all rear seats stowed. This flexibility allows the Odyssey to swallow an impressive amount of gear, from strollers and sports equipment to luggage for family road trips.

Where the Odyssey truly excels is its array of family-friendly features that make life on the road more convenient and entertaining. The innovative CabinWatch rear seat camera lets you keep an eye on the kids, while the CabinTalk in-car PA system allows you to easily communicate with third-row passengers. A rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch screen helps keep little ones occupied on long drives.

Fuel efficiency is respectable, with the Odyssey achieving up to 12.6 L/100km in the city and 8.5 L/100km on the highway. Safety is also a strong suit, with the Odyssey earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and offering advanced driver aids like forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Pricing for the 2023 Honda Odyssey starts at $38,300 for the base LX trim and climbs to $53,600 for the range-topping Touring model, making it a competitive value among premium minivans packed with family-focused amenities.

Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna received a full redesign for 2021, emerging with a bold new look that ditches the minivan stigma. Its slick styling borrows from SUVs with a planted stance, muscular body lines, and an aggressive front fascia. Yet it maintains all the versatility and family-friendly traits that make minivans so appealing.

Cargo space remains one of the Sienna’s strengths. Behind the third row, there’s 33.5 cubic feet for groceries and gear. Fold the third row flat into the floor, and you gain a massive 101 cubic feet of space. For maximum hauling capacity, the second row also folds to open up a van-like 150.9 cubic feet of cargo volume.

Toyota packed the new Sienna with family-focused tech conveniences. The available kick sensor for the hands-free power liftgate is a game-changer when your arms are loaded down. There’s also a rear seat reminder to prevent leaving children or pets behind. And the available digital rearview mirror provides an unobstructed view when the van is packed to the roof.

For eco-conscious families, Toyota now offers the Sienna as a hybrid. This efficient powertrain achieves up to 36 mpg combined, a 33% improvement over the previous generation’s V6. The hybrid also provides instant torque for snappy acceleration.

Pricing for the 2023 Toyota Sienna starts at $35,925 for the base LE trim. The range-topping Platinum AWD model comes in at $52,284. Safety ratings are impressive, with the Sienna earning a 5-star overall score from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.

Chrysler Pacifica

The Chrysler Pacifica stands out with its surprisingly upscale interior and loads of family-friendly features. Despite its minivan practicality, the Pacifica has an elegant cabin with high-quality materials and a modern, car-like design.

In terms of cargo capacity, the Pacifica offers a generous 32.3 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Fold the third row flat, and you get a massive 87.5 cubic feet for hauling larger items. With all rear seats stowed, the maximum cargo volume expands to a cavernous 140.5 cubic feet.

One of the Pacifica’s standout family conveniences is the Stow ‘n Go folding seat system for the second row. With the flip of a lever, the second-row seats can fold into neat compartments in the floor, creating a flat load space for hauling bulky cargo. It’s an ingenious solution for maximizing versatility.

Keeping rear passengers entertained, the available Uconnect Theatre rear entertainment system features 10-inch touchscreens mounted on the front seatbacks. Kids can watch movies, play games, or connect mobile devices via HDMI or USB ports. An optional built-in vacuum cleaner also helps tidy up after messy family adventures.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica starts at $41,995 for the base Touring model and tops out around $57,000 for the luxurious Pinnacle trim. Safety ratings are impressive, with a 5-star overall score from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS when equipped with specific headlights.

Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival burst onto the minivan scene for 2022, bringing a fresh and modern take on the segment with its bold SUV-inspired styling. Don’t let the rugged looks fool you though – under the skin, the Carnival packs all the family-friendly utility and versatility minivan buyers crave.

When it comes to hauling cargo, the Carnival’s boxy shape translates into impressive room for your family’s gear. With all seats upright, there’s a generous 25.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Fold the third row flat and volume expands to 86.9 cubic feet. For maximum capacity, folding both rear rows opens up a cavernous 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room.

Families will appreciate the Carnival’s well-executed convenience features. The sliding rear doors make entry and exit easier, especially in tight spaces. An available rear seat reminder system can detect movement in the back and prevent kids or pets from being left behind. The Carnival also offers a clever in-car intercom system, allowing the front seats to easily communicate with rear passengers.

Under the hood, the Carnival comes powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing a strong 290 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway are about average for the minivan class. Pricing starts at $32,100 for the base LX trim, while a fully-loaded SX Prestige model tops out around $46,100.

Dodge Grand Caravan

The Dodge Grand Caravan has been a staple in the minivan segment for decades, offering a no-frills, value-focused option for families on a budget. While the Grand Caravan has now been discontinued, there is still some remaining new inventory available at dealerships, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a low-cost minivan.

In terms of cargo space, the Grand Caravan delivers ample room for hauling gear and luggage. With all seats in place, there’s 33.0 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third row. Fold the third row flat, and you get a generous 83.3 cubic feet of space. For maximum capacity, folding both the second and third rows opens up a cavernous 143.8 cubic feet of cargo room.

However, the Grand Caravan’s age does show in its lack of modern tech and safety features. While it offers basic amenities like Stow ‘n Go seating and a rear entertainment system, it misses out on the latest active safety aids, infotainment systems, and family-friendly conveniences found in newer rivals. Buyers seeking cutting-edge technology and advanced driver assists will need to look elsewhere.

Where the Grand Caravan shines is in its pricing, with remaining new models offering significant discounts compared to brand-new minivans from other manufacturers. For families on a tight budget, the Grand Caravan presents an opportunity to get into a spacious, practical minivan at a lower cost, albeit without the latest bells and whistles.

Top Minivan Comparison Chart

To directly compare the key practical specs families care about, here’s a side-by-side look at cargo space, engine choices, fuel economy ratings, and pricing for the top minivans:

What Families Want in a Minivan

When shopping for a new family vehicle, minivans check all the boxes for practicality and convenience. But within the minivan segment, certain priorities rise to the top for families evaluating their options.

Cargo flexibility is paramount, with the ability to haul a massive Costco run while also stowing strollers, sports gear, and more. Easy access to the cargo area and fold-flat seats that create a flat load floor are key. Generous cargo volumes behind the third row and with all seats folded down provide the ultimate versatility.

Passenger room and comfort are also crucial. Minivans need to provide ample space for growing families, with roomy second and third rows. User-friendly access to the third row makes life easier, along with amenities like sunroofs, climate control, and entertainment systems to keep kids and parents happy.

Family-focused technology features deliver unmatched convenience. Hands-free power liftgates, built-in vacuum cleaners, rear seat monitoring cameras, and driver communication systems all cater to the realities of family life. Connectivity tech also rates highly to keep devices charged and integrated.

Safety is non-negotiable for family haulers, so minivans need top safety ratings and advanced driver assistance features. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and 360-degree camera views provide extra peace of mind.

While outright performance takes a back seat, respectable driving dynamics help minivans avoid feeling like cumbersome whales on the road. A reasonably responsive and composed driving experience makes them more pleasant for daily family use.

“The cargo room and easy access to the third row sold us,” said one Odyssey owner. “But we were surprised by how well it drives for a big van.” A Sienna owner noted, “The sliding doors, hands-free liftgate, and all the family tech like the intercom system make this so much easier with kids.”

Odyssey Test Drive Review

The Honda Odyssey continues to impress with its well-rounded driving dynamics and family-friendly versatility. From the driver’s seat, the Odyssey feels composed and relatively car-like, belying its minivan proportions. The steering is precise and nicely weighted, lending confidence in everyday driving situations.

Access to the third row is simplified by Honda’s ingenious Magic Slide second-row seats, which tilt and slide forward with the pull of a lever. Even with a child seat installed, you can easily crawl through to the rearmost seats. Once back there, the third row offers enough room for adults, though taller passengers will want to claim one of the front two rows.

Where the Odyssey really shines is with its bevy of family-focused features. The CabinWatch rear seat camera lets you keep an eye on the kids from the front, while CabinTalk lets you project your voice to the back rows without shouting. The rear entertainment system with ceiling-mounted display helps keep little ones occupied on longer drives. And the multitude of cupholders, storage cubbies, and USB ports make it easy to keep the whole crew satisfied.

Ride quality is another Odyssey strong suit. The suspension does an admirable job of soaking up bumps and ruts, resulting in a comfortable and composed experience even on rougher roads. Road and wind noise are also well-muted, contributing to an impressively serene cabin ambiance. While not overtly sporty, the Odyssey handles nimbly and inspires confidence when hustling through corners.

Sienna Test Drive Review

The redesigned 2021 Toyota Sienna immediately impresses with its bold new styling that gives it a more SUV-like presence on the road. Sliding into the driver’s seat, the upright seating position affords excellent visibility out the front and sides. The interior layout is intuitive, with controls easily within reach.

Putting the Sienna into gear, the available hybrid powertrain delivers smooth and responsive acceleration around town, with a seamless transition between the gas engine and electric motor. There’s ample power for merging onto the highway. In EV mode, the Sienna operates whisper-quiet on electric power alone at lower speeds. The hybrid also boasts impressive fuel efficiency for a vehicle this size.

The sliding rear doors open wide to allow easy access to the second and third rows. Once inside, there’s generous headroom and legroom, even for adults in the third row. The second-row seats tilt and slide forward at the pull of a lever, simplifying entry and exit to the rear. With both rear rows folded, the Sienna boasts a voluminous and flat cargo area.

On the road, the Sienna exhibits a comfortable and composed ride, soaking up bumps with ease. The cabin remains well-isolated from wind and road noise. While not sporty, the Sienna handles respectably for its size. The strong brakes inspire confidence. Overall, Toyota has engineered the new Sienna to be an exceptionally family-friendly vehicle that simplifies everyday driving.

Pacifica Test Drive Review

The Chrysler Pacifica immediately impresses with its premium cabin that feels a step above other minivans. The interior exudes an upscale, almost luxury aesthetic with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating is brilliantly convenient – the second-row seats effortlessly fold into the floor at the pull of a lever, opening up a vast cargo area. Even with all seats up, the deep well behind the third row swallows a surprising amount of luggage or groceries.

Out on the road, the Pacifica delivers a more refined driving experience than expected of a minivan. The ride is smooth and well-damped, with responsive steering and handling that makes this big van feel relatively agile. The 3.6L V6 provides ample power for merging or passing, with a polished and quiet demeanor. The Pacifica’s cabin is impressively hushed at highway speeds, with minimal wind and road noise.

Accessing the rearmost seats is simple thanks to the Pacifica’s wide sliding doors and a cleverly tilting second row. Once inside, even adults will find generous head and legroom in the third row. Creature comforts like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and the available rear entertainment system make long trips more pleasant. The Pacifica pampers its passengers with a level of luxury unexpected in a family hauler.

Kia Carnival Test Drive Review

The all-new Kia Carnival sets itself apart with a bold SUV-inspired look that’s a far cry from the typical minivan shape. This boxy exterior styling translates into a cavernous interior with acres of space for passengers and cargo. Sliding into the driver’s seat, the Carnival feels more like piloting a large SUV rather than a traditional minivan.

Out on the road, the Carnival’s planted stance and composed handling make it feel surprisingly car-like and easy to maneuver despite its full-size dimensions. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, soaking up bumps nicely. Under the hood, the 290-hp V6 provides plenty of gusto for merging onto highways or passing, while the 8-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly.

For families, the Carnival impresses with its spacious cabin and wealth of kid-friendly features. Access to the third row is simplified thanks to the Carnival’s long sliding rear doors and supportive grab handles. Once inside, even adults will find plenty of head and legroom in all three rows. Outward visibility from the tall greenhouse is excellent.

Cargo room behind the third row measures a useful 25.6 cubic feet, expanding to 86.9 cubes with the third row folded. Lowering both rear rows reveals a voluminous 145.1 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Families will also appreciate the Carnival’s innovative Passenger Talk intercom system, allowing the driver to easily communicate with those in the rear rows.

Grand Caravan Test Drive Review

Driving the discontinued Dodge Grand Caravan is a bit like taking a trip back in time. The cabin feels dated compared to newer minivans, with hard plastics and lack of modern tech features. However, it retains the simple, functional layout that made Chrysler minivans so popular for decades.

The 3.6L V6 engine provides decent power for merging onto highways, but fuel economy lags behind newer models. Handling is car-like for a vehicle this size, though the steering feels numb and disconnected. The ride quality is smooth enough for family duty.

Access to the third row is a bit tighter due to the Grand Caravan’s lower stance and narrower cabin compared to newer minivans. However, the second-row Stow ‘n Go seats are a versatile highlight, folding neatly into the floor to maximize cargo space. With all seats stowed, you get a voluminous 143.8 cu-ft of room.

Overall, the Grand Caravan feels behind the times in areas like tech and cabin quality. But it still delivers impressive cargo flexibility and space that families need, even if the experience is far less refined than today’s minivan leaders.

Analysis: Best Minivans for Cargo & Family Use

After evaluating the cargo dimensions, passenger accommodations, and family-focused features across the top minivans, a few models clearly stand out as the best choices for Canadian families.

The Honda Odyssey remains a frontrunner, offering immense interior flexibility with its removable second-row seats and generous cargo volume behind every seating row. With up to 3,976 litres (140.4 cu ft) of total cargo space, it provides ample room for strollers, sports gear, and luggage for family road trips. The innovative CabinWatch rear seat camera and CabinTalk intercom system also make it easier to monitor children from the front seats.

The redesigned Toyota Sienna impresses with a maximum 4,247 litres (150 cu ft) of cargo space, edging out even the Odyssey’s volume. Its kick-open rear hatch and sliding second-row seats make loading cargo a breeze. While the Sienna’s cabin tech may not be as cutting-edge as the Odyssey, the available hybrid powertrain delivers superior fuel efficiency for eco-conscious families.

The sleek and boldly-styled Kia Carnival is a newcomer worth considering, blending SUV styling with minivan practicality. With up to 4,110 litres (145.1 cu ft) of cargo space, it falls just shy of the Odyssey and Sienna’s volumes but compensates with innovative family features. The sliding rear doors reduce the risk of dents, while the intercom system allows easy communication with third-row passengers.

Value & Pricing Considerations

While cargo space, family features, and driving impressions are crucial factors, pricing remains a major consideration for budget-conscious families. The minivan segment offers a range of options to suit different budgets and value equations.

At the higher end, the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna command premium pricing, with top trims reaching into the mid-$40,000 range. However, these models offer a compelling blend of practicality, refinement, and long-term reliability that can justify the investment for families seeking a minivan to serve them for many years.

The Chrysler Pacifica and Kia Carnival strike a balance, delivering upscale features and generous cargo space at a more accessible price point, typically in the mid-to-high $30,000 range for well-equipped models.

For families on a tighter budget, the outgoing Dodge Grand Caravan presents an enticing value proposition, with remaining new inventory often available for under $30,000. While lacking the latest tech and safety features, the Grand Caravan still delivers impressive cargo versatility and passenger room for the money.

Ultimately, the ideal minivan choice depends on your family’s specific needs and budget constraints. Those prioritizing cutting-edge features, safety tech, and long-term ownership may find the higher prices of the Odyssey and Sienna worthwhile investments. Families seeking a balance of amenities and value could gravitate toward the Pacifica or Carnival, while the Grand Caravan caters to those seeking maximum cargo space and passenger room at the lowest possible cost.

Parting Advice for Minivan Buyers

Choosing the ideal minivan for your family involves more than just evaluating cargo space and passenger capacity. As versatile and family-focused as modern minivans are, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and lifestyle factors when making this significant investment.

First, determine your priorities beyond just hauling people and cargo. Are you frequently embarking on long road trips or mostly running local errands? Do you need all-wheel drive capability for winter conditions? How important are fuel efficiency and hybrid options to minimize your environmental impact and operating costs?

Next, carefully assess the available technology, safety, and convenience features that can make family life easier. Rear-seat entertainment systems, hands-free power liftgates, driver-assistance technologies, and innovative seating configurations can all contribute to a more enjoyable and stress-free journey with kids in tow.

Don’t overlook the overall driving dynamics and comfort levels either. While minivans prioritize utility, you’ll still want a reasonably engaging and composed driving experience, especially if you’ll be spending significant time behind the wheel.

Finally, consider long-term ownership costs beyond just the initial purchase price. Factors like predicted reliability, maintenance expenses, and resale value can vary significantly between minivan models and should factor into your decision.

By carefully evaluating your family’s unique needs, desired features, and long-term costs, you can confidently select the minivan that will provide years of faithful service as your family grows and evolves.

The Enduring Minivan Appeal

While SUVs and crossovers have surged in popularity, minivans continue to hold an enduring appeal for modern families. Their spacious interiors, versatile cargo configurations, and host of family-friendly features make them the ultimate utility vehicle for those with kids.

Beyond just hauling people and cargo, today’s minivans are designed from the ground up with families in mind. From built-in vacuum cleaners and rear entertainment systems to innovative seating configurations and easy access sliding doors, minivans are all about making life easier for parents on the go.

Safety is also a major selling point, with minivans often outperforming SUVs in crash tests due to their low center of gravity and robust construction. Advanced driver assistance technologies like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert help give parents extra peace of mind.

While they may not have the rugged image or sporty styling of an SUV, minivans more than make up for it with unmatched interior flexibility, superior fuel efficiency, and unparalleled family-focused features. For families who prioritize practicality and convenience over all else, there’s simply no better vehicle choice than a well-equipped minivan.