Behind the Wheel

Interior and technology

Inside, these minivans are similar. Both vans have seven- and eight-passenger configurations, spacious cabins, comfortable and versatile seats, storage space galore and many kidfriendly touches. Even smartphone integration, intercoms and built-in vacuums are the norm on higher trims.

The interior is also a chance for differentiation.

Honda has an optional in-cabin camera system that displays a view of the rear passengers on the touchscreen. Toyota doesn’t offer one of those but counters with an optional refrigerator built into the center console, plus an optional surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The Odyssey has second-row seats that slide side to side, which helps with third-row access. Toyota offers second-row seats in the Sienna that slide backward more than the Odyssey’s. They even have optional extendable footrests.

For hauling cargo, both minivans have third-row seats that are easy to fold down. You can also take out the Odyssey’s secondrow seats for maximum cargo capacity, though they’re heavy and bulky. The Sienna’s second-row seats are no longer removable. WINNER » Odyssey

How they drive

Perhaps the biggest difference between the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey is how they drive.

For any vehicle, assessment of the ride often comes down to personal preference. Here’s our expert take.

Behind the wheel of the Odyssey, things are simple. It drives a lot like a sedan. The V6 and automatic transmission work well together, and there always seems to be enough power to do what you need to. Around town the Honda is as easy to drive as it is on the highway. The ride is agreeable over both small and large bumps in the road. Easy is the key here.

The Sienna hybrid requires a little adjustment. Remember that standout fuel economy? It comes at a cost.

The Toyota drives awkwardly at times, as the regenerative brakes decide how best to react. Its engine is loud when it’s working its hardest, and you’ll feel the comparative lack of power on freeway onramps or when going up grades.

That said, the Sienna has enough guts for most driving situations thanks to the hybrid battery torque. The Sienna’s ride quality is generally OK but gets overly bouncy and floaty over larger bumps.

WINNER » Odyssey

EDMUNDS SAYS » Minivan shoppers will find plenty to like from both the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna. This one is close. The difference makers are ultimately drivability and interior versatility. The Toyota Sienna stumbles just a bit in both areas, which gives the Honda Odyssey a photo-finish victory.