Kia refers to the refreshed 2025 Kia Carnival as an SUV-like MPV, but it also admits the model competes in the minivan segment. See what's new for the 2025 Kia Carnival.

<p>When Kia introduced the Carnival as a replacement for its Sedona minivan, it emphasized the model&rsquo;s &ldquo;SUV-like&rdquo; character and referred to it repeatedly as a &ldquo;multi-purpose vehicle,&rdquo; or MPV. But Kia did not call it what it was: a minivan.</p><p><strong><img alt="2025 Kia Carnival HEV Gray Front Quarter View" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2025%20Kia%20Carnival%20HEV%20Gray%20Front%20Quarter%20View.jpg" /></strong></p><p>Apparently, times have changed. While Kia still refers to the refreshed 2025 Carnival as an SUV-like MPV, it also admits the model competes in the minivan segment. Available trim levels include LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, all featuring a standard V6 engine. However, one of the significant changes for the 2025 Kia Carnival is a new <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/hybrid-vs-electric-cars-how-they-work">hybrid</a> model called the HEV. It comes in all but LX trim.</p><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>What&rsquo;s New for the 2025 Kia Carnival? - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><ul>	<li>Updated exterior styling</li>	<li>New <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/whats-the-difference-between-turbocharging-and-supercharging">turbocharged</a> hybrid powertrain option</li>	<li>Next-generation infotainment technologies</li>	<li>Enhanced collection of advanced driving assistance systems</li>	<li>The 2025 Kia Carnival release date is the summer of 2024</li></ul></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Exterior - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2025 Kia Carnival HEV Gray Rear Quarter View" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2025%20Kia%20Carnival%20HEV%20Gray%20Rear%20Quarter%20View.jpg" /></strong></p><p>The <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2022-kia-carnival-review?make=kia&amp;model=carnival">2022 Carnival</a> had a technical exterior appearance with SUV styling cues that set it far apart from other minivans. Thematically, its styling most closely recalled the <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-kia-sorento-review?make=kia&amp;model=sorento">Sorento SUV</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>The refreshed 2025 Carnival continues taking its cues from the Sorento, but this time, it&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/new-car-previews/2024-kia-sorento-preview?make=kia&amp;model=sorento">the updated 2024 version of the SUV</a>. They have a very similar look in the front, while in the back, the Carnival&rsquo;s distinctive full-width taillights adopt new vertical outer blades similar to those of its SUV sibling.</p><p>To shake off the stench of a minivan classification, the 2025 Carnival features SUV styling cues such as gray lower perimeter body and wheel arch cladding, wheels that resemble what you might see on the Sorento and <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2023-kia-telluride-review-update?make=kia&amp;model=telluride">Telluride</a> models, silver trim to simulate skid plates, and utility-style roof rails. A new Carnival Dark Edition is also available with, you guessed it, dark exterior trim and detailing.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Interior - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2025 Kia Carnival HEV SX Prestige VIP Lounge Seats" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2025%20Kia%20Carnival%20HEV%20SX%20Prestige%20VIP%20Lounge%20Seats.jpg" /></strong></p><p>Get into a Kia Carnival, and it feels like anything but a minivan from the driver&rsquo;s seat. With its broad dashboard, full center console, and a large padded armrest between the front seats, you&rsquo;d swear you were sitting in an SUV.</p><p>This year, the restyled dashboard is a model of minimalism. In addition to the available curved dual-display panel on the upper half of the dashboard, the only controls on the lower half reside on a dual-function touch-sensing panel. It provides access to the climate controls and other secondary functions and some may find it challenging to use while driving.</p><p>Ambient lighting is available, and it spans the width of the dashboard. In addition, illuminated seatbelt buckles make them easier to find and use after dark.</p><p>Depending on the configuration, the 2025 Carnival seats up to eight people. Models with a second-row bench include a Slide-Flex function, allowing the seat&rsquo;s middle part to scoot forward. That way, it&rsquo;s easier for parents to tend to a child seated there.</p><p>Choose the Carnival SX Prestige, and you can get the VIP Lounge Seat Package (seen above). It equips the minivan with two cushy, individually power-adjustable second-row seats with a relaxation mode offering reclining and an ottoman-style leg rest.</p><p>All versions of the Carnival, except for the SX Prestige, have removable second-row seats. With those stored in a safe location, this Kia can carry up to 145.1 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. That&rsquo;s more than a <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-chevrolet-suburban-review?make=chevrolet&amp;model=suburban">Chevy Suburban</a>!</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Specs - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2025 Kia Carnival HEV Gray Front Quarter Action" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2025%20Kia%20Carnival%20HEV%20Gray%20Front%20Quarter%20Action.jpg" /></strong></p><p>In standard specification, the Carnival has a carryover 3.5-liter V6 engine making 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-torque-in-cars">torque</a>. An eight-speed automatic transmission powers the minivan&rsquo;s front wheels. Unfortunately, all-wheel drive is unavailable.</p><p>However, you can get a new turbocharged hybrid powertrain in the 2025 Kia Carnival HEV. It uses a 1.6-liter turbo four and a 54-kW electric motor to generate 242 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission powers the front wheels, so you don&rsquo;t need to worry about a continuously variable transmission (<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-cvt-or-continuously-variable-transmission">CVT</a>) droning with every push of the accelerator pedal.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, when driving the 2025 Carnival HEV in Eco or Smart mode, you can use the paddles on the steering wheel to choose between three levels of <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-s-regenerative-braking">regenerative braking</a> deceleration force. The Carnival HEV also has exclusive E-Ride and E-Handling technologies to better manage the heavier model&rsquo;s ride and handling traits.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Safety - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p>Kia also upgraded the 2025 Carnival&rsquo;s safety features this year. Newly available equipment includes intersection assistance, <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-evasive-steering-assistance">evasive steering assistance</a>, and lane-change assistance.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-kia-highway-driving-assist-2">Highway Driving Assist 2</a> is also available, giving the Carnival a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist system that pairs the adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance and lane-change assistance functions. Drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel for it to work.</p><p>The 2025 Carnival HEV also has E-Evasive Handling Assist, adding extra control when the driver makes a sudden emergency steering maneuver.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Technology - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2025 Kia Carnival HEV SX Prestige Interior Dashboard" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2025%20Kia%20Carnival%20HEV%20SX%20Prestige%20Interior%20Dashboard.jpg" /></strong></p><p>Kia says the standard dashboard setup includes a set of analog gauges with a 4.2-inch driver information display and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Seven USB-C ports are accessible from all three rows of seats.</p><p>This year&rsquo;s excitement pertains to the available curved dual-display panel containing a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation screen and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It has a next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCNC) operating system promising faster response to inputs, and it allows <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-are-over-the-air-updates-for-cars">over-the-air updates</a> to its software. In addition, it offers Quick Controls to give you rapid access to frequently used features.</p><p>For the rear passengers, a Connected Car Rear Cockpit (CCRC) system equips the Carnival with two 14.6-inch high-resolution screens. Using this technology, passengers can stream content from popular platforms, use Bluetooth-paired headsets, and mirror external devices on the displays via the HDMI port.&nbsp;</p><p>The Carnival also features a new multi-zone voice recognition system that allows anyone in the minivan to say &ldquo;Hey, Kia&rdquo; to execute a command. Good idea? Bad idea? You decide.</p><p>Additional tech options include a full-color head-up display, <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-rear-camera-mirror">a rear camera mirror</a>, and a <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-digital-key-for-a-car">digital key system</a> for your smartphone or a smart card that you can carry like a credit card.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>2025 Kia Carnival Competitors - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=kia&amp;model=carnival" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Kia Carnival deals!</a></strong></h2><p>The 2025 Kia Carnival might be a minivan, but it offers plenty of innovation in a stylish SUV-adjacent wrapper. The Carnival HEV resolves one of the Kia&rsquo;s competitive shortcomings compared to the <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-chrysler-pacifica-hybrid-review?make=chrysler&amp;model=pacifica">Chrysler Pacifica</a> and <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2023-toyota-sienna-review-update?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna">Toyota Sienna</a> and makes the <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-honda-odyssey-review?make=honda&amp;model=odyssey">Honda Odyssey</a> the only model in the segment lacking an electrified powertrain. All the Carnival needs to bring to the party now is an optional all-wheel-drive system.</p><p><em>Kia is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of February 7, 2024, but it may have changed since that date.</em> <em>Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker&rsquo;s website or your local dealership.</em></p><p><em>Christian Wardlaw is a veteran automotive journalist with nearly 30 years of experience in test-driving vehicles. In addition to</em><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/"> <em>JDPower.com</em></a><em>, his work has appeared in numerous new and used-car buying guides, newspapers, and automotive industry trade journals.</em></p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Related Resources</strong></h2><ul>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars">Research a Vehicle</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars-for-sale?engine=electric-engine">New and Used Electric Cars for Sale</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars-for-sale">All Cars for Sale</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/sell-my-car-2">Sell My Car</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/compare-cars">Compare Cars</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/car-finder">Car Finder Tool</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/ratings">Car Ratings</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/new-car-previews">New Car Previews</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews">Expert Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div>

2025 Kia Carnival Preview

Minivans have extended seating due to the availability of large storage space. Before deciding to buy a minivan as a family vehicle, look for one that is suitable and safe for your family.  Let’s discuss the benefits and features of some of the top reliable minivans.

<p>Looking for a vehicle that can accommodate a big family, look no further than a minivan. Minivans are considered the official family car and count as one of the safest vehicles for the family.&nbsp;</p><p><img alt="Most Reliable Minivans" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/Most%20Reliable%20Minivans.jpg" /></p><p>Minivans have extended seating due to the availability of large storage space. Before deciding to buy a minivan as a family vehicle, look for one that is suitable and safe for your family. Let&rsquo;s discuss the benefits and features of some of the top reliable minivans available in 2022.</p><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Benefits Of A Minivan</strong></h2><p>Minivans are family-friendly because they have lots of room for passengers and luggage. The seats in a minivan can get lowered or removed to allow more storage room for luggage or cargo.</p><p>A minivan can hold a large group of people. About seven individuals can fit into a minivan. Certain models can comfortably sit up to nine and still have enough space for luggage.&nbsp;</p><p>A minivan is an ideal vehicle for families. A minivan&rsquo;s sliding doors are unbelievably useful for families with preschoolers, infant car seats, or older family members and patients who have to get wheeled in a wheelchair. It can even serve you well if you want to take your family on vacation.</p><p>Minivans are also the safest light vehicles on the road. Minivans have lower rides and bumper-to-bumper contact with other vehicles is minimal, which means that the capability of both vehicle zones to engage and absorb the crash energy is optimized.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Most Reliable Minivans in 2022</strong></h2><p>Before deciding to buy a minivan, look for features based on storage, safety, practicality, comfort, and reliability. Safety and dependability should be the primary concern above all.&nbsp;</p><p>Here are the highest-rated, most dependable, and most reliable minivans available in the United States.</p><h3><em>Chrysler Pacifica</em></h3><p>The Chrysler Pacifica is easily one of the most reliable minivans you can buy. The Pacifica is a solid build and will be a comfortable, quiet ride for you and your family. Some standard features of the Chrysler Pacifica include a trip computer display in the instrument cluster and steering-wheel-mounted controls.&nbsp;</p><p>The Pacifica has power sliding doors on all but its base trim. The seating trims have second-row Stow &#39;n Go on all trims except its hybrid models. Cargo space is generous; with the seats folded into the floor, the expansive flat cargo space will hold a large stack of 4&#39; x 8&#39; sheets of construction material.</p><h3><em>Kia Sedona</em></h3><p>The Kia Sedona will be one of your best mid-level priced minivans.&nbsp;</p><p>This dependable family-friendly people mover is one of the safest vehicles. The Kia Sedona is equipped with multiple seating options for seven or eight passengers.&nbsp;</p><p>Some standard features include an AM/FM/MP3/satellite four-speaker audio system with a seven-inch touchscreen dash rear camera display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sedona has Cruise control with a dual sunroof on its top trim. This minivan scored almost five out of five on all the safety tests, so it is near perfect in safety for your family&rsquo;s safety.</p><h3><em>Toyota Sienna</em></h3><p>The Toyota Sienna lives up to the dependability of the Toyota name. The Toyota Sienna is the only minivan that offers available all-wheel drive for its 2017&ndash;2020 models, giving you extra confidence to tackle just about any type of road condition. Wide third-row seating allows for the storage of anything you can imagine.&nbsp;</p><p>Some standard features include a suite of six driver-assist features available on all trims with three-zone automatic climate control. The Sienna also has a six-way adjustable driver seat.</p><h3><em>Dodge Grand Caravan</em></h3><p>The Dodge Grand Caravan is one of the most simple, practical, and reliable minivans of 2022 and comes with the well-known Super Stow &#39;n Go&reg; seats. The cargo space is generous with lots of room for cargo and luggage.</p><p>Some standard features include a 3.6L Pentastar&reg; V6 engine with dual power sliding doors on the top two trims. The Grand Caravan has an optical multimedia entertainment system with an HDMI port and a rearview backup camera.</p><h3><em>Honda Odyssey</em></h3><p>The Honda Odyssey is another excellent option when searching for top-of-the-line reliable minivans. The Odyssey has a generously spacious cabin that could double as a cargo van for anyone looking for maximum flexibility for weekend projects.&nbsp;</p><p>Some standard features include a one-motion 60/40 split 3rd-row Magic Seat&reg; and an accessible USB port. The Honda Odyssey has a rearview camera with guidelines and Bluetooth&reg; connectivity.</p><h3><em>Ford Flex</em></h3><p>The Ford Flex is a cool-looking minivan but its production ended with the 2019 model. The Ford Flex looks more like a wagon, but it has all the power you need in a minivan. The multi-panel panoramic sunroof allows more natural light into the cabin and a better view of the sky, which makes it feel even more spacious.</p><p>Some standard features include a standard 3.5L V6 engine with six-speed automatic transmission. The&nbsp;</p><p>front-wheel-drive has an optional all-wheel drive on standard SEL and Limited trims.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Summary</strong>&nbsp;</h2><p>Minivans are family-friendly because they have lots of room for passengers and luggage. Before deciding to buy a minivan, look for features based on storage, safety, practicality, comfort, and reliability.</p><p>The most reliable minivans in 2022 are the Chrysler Pacifica, Kia Sedona, Toyota Sienna, Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, and Ford Flex.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Related Resources</strong></h2><ul>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars">Research a Vehicle</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars-for-sale">Cars for Sale</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/sell-my-car-2">Sell My Car</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/ratings">Car Ratings</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/automotive-news">Automotive News</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides">Shopping Guides</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/new-car-previews">New Car Previews</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews">Expert Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div>

Most Reliable Minivans

Volkswagen is going to perform two miracles with the 2025 VW ID. Buzz. First, the automaker’s latest electric vehicle (EV) will make minivans cool again. Second, despite its battery-powered drivetrain, the new VW ID. Buzz might be the first electric vehicle that proves popular.

2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Preview

The 2023 J.D. Power Highest Quality award is based on verified owner feedback detailing the number of problems they experienced with their new Vans during the first 90 days of ownership.

The 2023 J.D. Power Most Dependable award is based on verified owner feedback detailing the number of problems they experienced with their Vans throughout three years of ownership.

from $15,000 to $35,000

from $35,000 to $55,000

The Toyota Sienna brings a solid list of family-friendly features and all the safety tech a minivan buyer could want. And it does that with a standard fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain. Factor in an improved interior, and it makes the 2023 Sienna a compelling pick.

<div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Introduction - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Toyota deals!</a></strong></h2><p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-toyota-sienna-review?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna">Toyota Sienna</a>&nbsp;is a reasonably plush family hauler that aims to please with solid fuel economy and not-so-minivan-like styling. It&#39;s now three years into its fourth generation. It comes in several configurations, including a lightly rugged Woodland Edition that offers improved capability when the pavement ends.</p><p>Changes for 2023 are minimal but include a limited-edition 25th Anniversary trim with exclusive wheels and fancy interior finishes. Trim levels include LE, XLE, XSE, Woodland Edition, the limited 25th Anniversary Edition, Limited, and Platinum.</p><p>The minivan market is surprisingly strong in 2023, as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/kia">Kia</a>&nbsp;has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2022-kia-carnival-review?make=kia&amp;model=carnival">recently redesigned Carnival</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/chrysler">Chrysler</a>&nbsp;continues on with the venerable <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2020-chrysler-pacifica-review?make=chrysler&amp;model=pacifica">Pacifica</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-chrysler-pacifica-hybrid-review?make=chrysler&amp;model=pacifica">Pacifica Hybrid</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/toyota">Toyota</a>&nbsp;is the only automaker to offer a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/hybrid-vs-electric-cars-how-they-work">hybrid</a>-only van, though Chrysler offers a plug-in version of the Pacifica. The Sienna is also one of two minivan models that offer all-wheel drive (<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/whats-the-difference-between-awd-and-4wd">AWD</a>), making it ideal for families living where the air hurts their faces for portions of the year.</p><p>Toyota equips the 2023 Sienna with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. The combined output lands at 245 horsepower, which isn&#39;t thrilling but is enough to get the 7- or 8-passenger van moving with gusto. A continuously variable automatic transmission (<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-cvt-or-continuously-variable-transmission">CVT</a>) and front-wheel drive (FWD) come standard, but AWD is available. Despite the CVT, the powertrain remains well-mannered and relatively quiet. The ride quality is smooth enough to keep the little ones napping over rough roads.</p><p>Though it looks the part, the Sienna is not sporty, nor is it as rugged or capable as an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-does-suv-stand-for">SUV</a>. Even the beefier Woodland Edition trim with its expanded ground clearance and camp-ready features can&#39;t do what even a middling SUV can off-road, though light trail driving to an off-the-beaten-path campsite might be the extent of its needed capability. The van can also tow 3,500 pounds, which is plenty for a small camping trailer and gear hauler.</p><p>The Sienna comes standard with a second-row bench seat for 8-passenger seating while adding the available captain&#39;s chairs cuts capacity to seven. The new cabin design places a large center console between the front seats with a large storage area. Top trims get unique two-tone interior color schemes, and the overall feel of the Sienna&#39;s cabin is more upscale than in years past.</p><p>Toyota improved the Sienna&#39;s infotainment with the updated generation, and it&#39;s easier to use than previous models. Menus flow more smoothly, and navigation is much more intuitive. The base LE trim gets a 9-inch touchscreen, but all other variants are available with an 11.6-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with Amazon Alexa functionality and over half a dozen USB ports.</p><p>Previously, J.D. Power reviewed the 2021 Toyota Sienna. This review focuses on the Sienna&#39;s updates for 2022 and 2023 and how they potentially impact its overall appeal to consumers.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>What Owners Say About the Toyota Sienna - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Toyota deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2023 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD Front Quarter View" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2023%20Toyota%20Sienna%20Platinum%20AWD%20Front%20Quarter%20View.JPG" /></strong></p><p><strong><em>Photo:&nbsp;Chris Teague</em></strong></p><p>The Toyota Sienna competes in the Minivan market segment. According to data collected from verified new-vehicle buyers for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/j-d-power-2022-apeal-study-high-gas-prices-negatively-affecting-new-vehicle-appeal?make=&amp;model="><em>J.D. Power 2022 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study</em></a>, 65 percent of new Toyota Sienna buyers are male (vs. 63 percent for the segment), and the median age of a new Sienna buyer is 45 years (vs. 45).</p><p>As part of the&nbsp;<em>APEAL Study</em>, owners rated the Sienna in 10 primary categories. Listed below in descending order, you&#39;ll find their preferences, from their most favorite thing about the vehicle to their least favorite:</p><ul>	<li>Fuel economy</li>	<li>Exterior styling</li>	<li>Driving feel</li>	<li>Feeling of safety</li>	<li>Interior design</li>	<li>Driving comfort</li>	<li>Getting in and out</li>	<li>Setting up and starting</li>	<li>Infotainment</li>	<li>Powertrain</li></ul><p>In the&nbsp;<em>2022 APEAL Study</em>, the Sienna ranks 2nd out of five Minivan models.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>What Our Independent Expert Says About the Toyota Sienna - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Toyota deals!</a></strong></h2><p>In the following sections, our independent expert analyzes a Sienna Platinum equipped with the following options:</p><ul>	<li>All-wheel drive</li>	<li>Entertainment package with options (Rear entertainment with headphones, remote, and a digital rearview mirror)</li></ul><p>The test vehicle&#39;s price was $56,355, including the $1,335 destination charge.</p><h3><em>New Woodland Edition Targets Outdoor Enthusiasts</em></h3><p><strong><img alt="2023 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD Interior Dashboard" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2023%20Toyota%20Sienna%20Platinum%20AWD%20Interior%20Dashboard.JPG" /></strong></p><p><strong><em>Photo:&nbsp;Chris Teague</em></strong></p><p>People love vehicles that look ready to tackle the great outdoors, and the new Sienna Woodland Edition fulfills that promise for family buyers&mdash;at least to a degree. The van gets increased ground clearance and updated interior electrics to support power outlets for camping and off-grid living. Toyota also offers exclusive colors for the trim.</p><p>Though it&#39;s not the most capable off-roader, Toyota hopes to capture some of the SUV market with the Sienna Woodland Edition. Its beefier ground clearance helps, but it&#39;s still only 6.9 inches&mdash;almost two inches short of what buyers get in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2024-subaru-crosstrek-review-driving-impressions?make=subaru&amp;model=crosstrek">Subaru Crosstrek</a>. The Woodland Edition&#39;s price tag also skews to the higher end of Sienna pricing, so the tradeoff might not be worth it for some buyers.</p><p>Buyers wanting an off-road-ready family hauler should look at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-jeep-grand-cherokee-l-review?make=jeep&amp;model=grand-cherokee-l">Jeep Grand Cherokee L</a>&nbsp;or a similar vehicle that offers legitimate ground clearance and a more rugged attitude. While a nice thought, the Woodland Edition doesn&#39;t bring enough capability to be compelling as an SUV alternative.</p><h3><em>Living With a 2023 Toyota Sienna for a Week</em></h3><p>Two kids in booster seats, an 80-pound dog, and two adults can put a strain on even the most capable vehicle, but the Toyota Sienna is up to the task. The large side doors with powered sliding action make it simple for kids and dogs to get in and out. Also, the van&#39;s friendly ride height helps achy middle-aged adults slide into the leather-bound seats without issue. The test vehicle had the optional second-row captain&#39;s chairs, which affords a few extra inches between kids and makes accessing the third row a breeze.</p><p>Powertrains and performance might not be top of mind for many minivan buyers, but the Sienna does a fine job around town and on the highway. It has a CVT, which doesn&#39;t afford much responsiveness or engagement. Still, the gearbox is one of the better units around and doesn&#39;t let the engine wail under heavy throttle. New England is out of winter at this point in the year, but there has been plenty of heavy rain and partially flooded roads. The van&#39;s AWD system helped it confidently conquer all of it.</p><h3><em>Is the 2023 Toyota Sienna Safe?</em></h3><p><strong><img alt="2023 Toyota Sienna Infotainment Touchscreen" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2023%20Toyota%20Sienna%20Infotainment%20Touchscreen.JPG" /></strong></p><p><strong><em>Photo:&nbsp;Chris Teague</em></strong></p><p>According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2023 Toyota Sienna is a safe minivan. Indeed, both the FWD and AWD versions of the van received the highest-possible 5-star overall safety rating from the government agency.</p><p>The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently updated its rating system to include a more intense side-impact crash test. As a result, many models fell off the Top Safety Pick list with the move. Still, the Sienna remained, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating&mdash;the Institute&#39;s highest&mdash;for the 2023 calendar year. Only the Honda Odyssey matched its performance.</p><p>In IIHS testing, the 2023 Sienna&#39;s report card includes a &quot;Good&quot; score in the updated side-impact test.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-toyota-safety-sense-2-point-0">Toyota Safety Sense 2.0</a>&nbsp;comes standard, bringing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/lane-departure-vs-lane-keeping-vs-lane-centering-tech?make=&amp;model=">lane-departure warning</a>, pedestrian detection,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-automatic-emergency-braking?make=&amp;model=">automatic emergency braking</a>, and more. Higher trim levels add parking sensors and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/what-is-a-blind-spot-monitor?make=&amp;model=">blind-spot warning</a>.</p><p>The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has more standard safety gear than the Sienna, but as this article was written, the IIHS hadn&#39;t subjected the Chrysler to the new testing regimen. To be fair, the 2023 Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating for the 2022 calendar year, so there&#39;s a chance it could perform well in the new 2023 tests. The Kia Carnival also gets a load of safety gear and has yet to undergo the updated test.</p><h3><em>Is the 2023 Toyota Sienna the Best Minivan on the Market?</em></h3><p>The Toyota Sienna is a solid family hauler, but others in its class offer a more compelling package. The Honda Odyssey lacks a hybrid option, but its standard V6 provides strong acceleration and power. Plus, its interior is one of the most comfortable in any vehicle. It also offers removable second-row seats that increase cargo capacity, and its ride quality is fantastic.</p><p>The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is another solid alternative to the Toyota that brings all-electric range to the table. It&#39;s only available with FWD, but a good set of winter tires are all that stand between it and snow dominance.</p><p>A more recent marketplace arrival, the Kia Carnival offers more cargo space and is available with more luxurious interior finishes.</p><p>Though Toyota doesn&#39;t equip the same helpful tech that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/honda">Honda</a>&nbsp;and others do, it offers some nifty upgrades that make the van easier to live with. The two range-topping trims are available with a built-in vacuum cleaner&mdash;a move Honda made years ago. There&#39;s also Toyota&#39;s &quot;Driver Easy Speak&quot; system that makes it easier to yell at kids in the back. Still, the van lacks an in-cabin camera system like the one in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2021-honda-odyssey-review?make=honda&amp;model=odyssey">Honda Odyssey</a>.</p><p>The Sienna&#39;s interior is upscale but lacks some of its competitors&#39; innovative seating configurations. The second-row seats are not removable like the Honda and Chrysler vans, so there&#39;s less flexible storage. Toyota does equip sliding second-row seats that move more than two feet to enable better legroom or cargo space, depending on the need.</p><p>The Sienna provides 33.5 cubic feet of room behind the third-row seats and 75.2 behind the second row. With the back two rows folded flat, space climbs to 101 cubic feet. Though generous, that number is far short of the space provided by the Pacifica, which lands at 140.5 cubic feet.</p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Independent Expert Opinion - <a href="https://www.jdpower.com/quotes?make=toyota&amp;model=sienna" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank">Find the best Toyota deals!</a></strong></h2><p><strong><img alt="2023 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD Rear Quarter View" src="https://cdn.jdpower.com/JDP_2023%20Toyota%20Sienna%20Platinum%20AWD%20Rear%20Quarter%20View.JPG" /></strong></p><p><strong><em>Photo:&nbsp;Chris Teague</em></strong></p><p>Toyota last gave the Sienna a&nbsp;complete overhaul for the 2021 model year, shifting it to a hybrid-only layout and giving it a more up-to-date interior that finally catches up to the best from Honda, Chrysler, and Kia. The hybrid powertrain and improved interior make the Sienna a compelling pick. That, combined with Toyota&#39;s legendary reputation for reliability, makes the Sienna a compelling option. Available AWD also makes the van a good choice for people in colder climates, such as New England, where surprise snowstorms can happen as late as May.</p><p>Toyota also generally does an excellent job with pricing and value, though the mid-range Sienna trims are better for penny pinchers. They offer <em>most</em> of the good stuff without reaching the nearly-$60,000 top-end price that my Sienna Platinum AWD test vehicle achieved. That said, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid easily crests $61,000 before options, though it also comes with an all-electric driving range.</p><p>Ultimately, the midrange XSE trim is a good choice for Sienna buyers. It brings many desirable features, including more safety gear, without breaking the bank. All-wheel drive is a must in some areas of the country, and the van&#39;s stellar safety scores should put it high on any minivan shopper&#39;s list.</p><p>That said, there are better choices in the segment that bring more cargo space or more powerful engines. Even so, Toyota did a good job updating the van&#39;s tech and cabin to align it more with competitors that have been closer to the cutting edge for years.</p><p><em>Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to&nbsp;</em><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/"><em>JDPower.com</em></a><em>, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.</em></p></div><div style='display: inline-block; width: 100%;' class='js-ad-module'><h2><strong>Related Resources</strong></h2><ul>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars">Research a Vehicle</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars-for-sale">Cars for Sale</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/sell-my-car-2">Sell My Car</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/compare-cars">Compare Cars</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/car-finder">Car Finder Tool</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/ratings">Car Ratings</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides">Shopping Guides</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/new-car-previews">New Car Previews</a></li>	<li><a href="https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews">Expert Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div>

2023 Toyota Sienna Review Update

If you're shopping for a new minivan, and you don't want a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 2022 Kia Carnival is an excellent example of the breed. In fact, Kia may have built the best family car in history.

2022 Kia Carnival Review

For 2021, Toyota brings significant advances in fuel economy to the minivan segment. The 2021 Toyota Sienna also doubles down on its unique long-travel second-row seating and brings to market the brand's latest in connectivity and driver-assistive and safety tech. 

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