Starting in the mid-1980s, minivans served as the de facto family hauler. However, this vehicle type lost favor due to the rise of SUVs in the 2000s. Today, only four minivans are on the market: the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Carnival.
We’ve previously covered Honda-Toyota match-ups (check out our articles on Civic vs. Corolla, Pilot vs. Highlander, and others), and now it’s time to turn our attention to how these companies’ minivans compare.
The Honda Odyssey hit the U.S. market for the 1995 model year, followed by the Sienna in 1998 (the predecessor Toyota Previa, debuted for 1991). So, for 25 years, these two minivans have battled each other for sales success.
We’ve looked at FIXD owner surveys, manufacturer specifications, government data, and other vital information to identify what separates the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna from each other. In truth, there’s not a lot.
Both hold seven to eight people, perform well in crash tests, and have similar depreciation. While the differences are few, they’re notable. In particular, the Odyssey is more of a driver’s car thanks to a V6 engine (an increasing rarity these days), while the Sienna is focused on fuel economy over performance (this is especially the case with hybrid power being standard since 2021).
At the same time, the Odyssey offers cavernous cargo space compared to the Sienna, even though both vehicles are roughly the same size. Toyota fans will be surprised to learn that the Sienna has a worse history with check engine lights than the Odyssey. Nonetheless, some less-recent Sienna model years still make a great used vehicle. If a new minivan is on the shopping list, a base Sienna LE is hard to beat thanks to standard hybrid power.
Keep reading to discover the unique aspects of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. It’s useful information if you’re considering buying a new or used Honda or Toyota minivan (or already have one in the driveway).
| Income Bracket | Monthly Financing Cost Range | Cash Purchase Price Range | Honda Odyssey Years | Toyota Sienna Years | Best Model Year: | Why? |
| $5k- $10k | $83-$125 | $3,000-$4,500 | 2004 | N/A | 2004 Honda Odyssey | Low price and top safety scores |
| $10k- $15k | $125-$187 | $4,500-$6,750 | 2009 | N/A | 2009 Honda Odyssey | Good engine reliability a low price |
| $15k- $25k | $187-$312 | $6,750-$11,250 | 2012 | 2013 | 2013 Toyota Sienna | Modest price and solid engine reliability scores |
| $25k- $35k | $312-$437 | $11,250-$15,750 | 2015 | 2015 | 2015 Honda Odyssey | Excellent engine reliability scores |
| $35k- $50k | $437-$625 | $15,750-$22,500 | 2018 | 2018 | TIE | Strong engine reliability scores |
| $50k- $74k | $625-$925 | $22,500-$33,300 | NA | 2021 | 2021 Toyota Sienna | Top-notch engine reliability and exceptional fuel economy |
See the methodology for the table above.
Before you respond to the “For Sale” ad, check out this How to Buy a Used Car article for a step-by-step checklist.
Price History Comparison | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
Average Market Value – Based on Owners’ Self-Reported Mileages | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
Price is a big deal for most car shoppers. Arguably, it’s the most influential factor in a vehicle purchase. This chart highlights the average for private-party transactions involving Odysseys and Siennas from the 2001-2021 model years, based on Kelley Blue Book (KBB) data. Expect to pay 10%–40% more at the dealer. If this premium is unacceptable, look for an older minivan, that has more mileage, or comes with less equipment.
Mileage also affects what you’ll pay for a used vehicle, which is reflected in the chart data. A high-mileage vehicle will sell for a lower price than the same car with fewer miles. We also see that average market value increases with each more recent model year. This progression is typical with mainstream cars like these Hondas and Toyotas.
For the most part, market value is relatively consistent between Odysseys and Siennas from the same model year. So, assuming all relevant factors (mileage, condition, etc.) are equal, you’ll need to find a reason other than market value to favor a particular Honda over a Toyota, or vice-versa.
Mileage variances can explain the exceptions you see in the chart. Based on FIXD owner surveys, the market value imbalance between the 2017 Odyssey and Sienna is due to the higher average mileage for the Honda (this also applies for 2020). It’s the same issue with the 2018 model year, but the surveyed Siennas have more miles. So, the 2018 Odysseys are worth more.
The lack of Honda Odyssey data for the 2019 and 2021 model years is due to insufficient survey data.
Be sure to read our Best and Worst Years series of articles highlighting the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna winners and losers.
Depreciation vs. Maintenance Expenses
Depreciation is a genuine issue with new cars. Driving away from the dealer can cause a 10%-15% loss of value. Over five years, depreciation drops a car’s value by as much as half. A volatile market has lessened the effects of depreciation (used vehicles are worth more than in normal times).
Recent data and industry forecasts point to a return to normalcy in the coming months, meaning depreciation could once again take a toll on new and newer vehicles.
A decrease in value is less of a factor with older cars—wise car shoppers look for this. Someone else has already taken the depreciation “hit.” But just buying any old car won’t do. The secret is also finding a vehicle with a history of reasonable repair costs. This combination of low depreciation and reasonable upkeep expenses is the “sweet spot” marked by the outlined boxes in each graph. These are the model years to target for older Honda Odysseys and Toyota Siennas.
Maximum value for the Odyssey comes from the 2002-2011 model years. The Sienna has a similar range: 2002-2010. Here’s another case where these Hondas and Toyotas closely align.
But don’t assume every example within these ranges is a smart buy. Learn more by reviewing the best and worst years of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. There’s also an at–a–glance summary towards the end of this article.
Reliability Comparison | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
Two ratings are at the core of our look at the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.
- The FIXD Reliability Score measures the number of check engine lights recorded for a particular model year by installed FIXD sensors. Think of it as an engine reliability score. While every check engine light doesn’t directly translate into reliability concerns (such as a dead battery or loose gas cap), these indicators still provide insight into a car’s dependability.
- The second rating is the Owner Reliability Score. This is a subjective ranking of how surveyed owners feel about their respective vehicle’s dependability. Each owner estimates how capable their car is for trips of different lengths. A vehicle that can handle a cross-country adventure receives the highest score, while a car only suitable for a quick point A to point B trip gets the lowest score.
Both rankings are based on 1 being the lowest, 10 being the highest, and 5 being the average score.
We’ll also point out that both scores seldom align. The FIXD Reliability Score is determined by a definitive number, the frequency of check engine lights. On the other hand, the Owner Reliability Score is opinion-based. Owners tend to have pride in their automobiles, with higher ratings as a result. At a minimum, those with older vehicles are more accepting of check engine lights. For many, it’s the price of owning an aging car.
While previous sections highlighted similarities between the Odyssey and Sienna, all bets are off when it comes to check engine lights. Among the 19 years reviewed (there’s no Odyssey data for 2019 and 2021), Honda has a better FIXD Reliability Score for 12 model years. The Toyota only came out on top for three years. There’s a tie for four years.
Despite Toyota’s reputation for dependability, FIXD sensor data about the Sienna says otherwise. Admittedly, not every check engine light signals a significant (and expensive) problem. Sometimes, a failing car battery or loose gas cap is enough to trigger a dashboard warning light. That said, it’s surprising to see the engine reliability differences between these two minivans.
Yet, the Odyssey and Sienna get closer once again with Owner Reliability Scores. The Honda gets better ratings for 8 out of 19 years, compared to 4 years for the Toyota. Both vehicles were tied for seven years.
In short, despite a higher frequency of check engine lights, Sienna owners have strong positive perceptions about their vehicles. These feelings may explain why these Toyotas enjoy market values on par with the Odyssey.
Review the Best and Worst Years articles on the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna to learn more about these vehicles’ FIXD Reliability and Owner Reliability Scores.
Longevity Comparison | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
A look at owner-reported mileage averages for the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna tells us two things: both vehicles have similar usage histories and can hit the 150,000-mile mark or above. Several Odyssey and Sienna model years have reached or are getting close to 200,000 miles of use. Needless to say, these minivans get driven a lot and are up for the task (despite the Sienna’s poor showing with engine reliability).
While build quality certainly impacts longevity, regular maintenance, and responsible accident-free driving are part of the equation.
Review the individual articles on the best and worst years of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna for a more thorough look at longevity.
2023 Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna | A Guide to Trim Levels & Optional Features
Trim Levels: Starting Prices
Buyers who purchase a minivan usually have family transportation and a budget in mind. This is why the $36,885 starting price for the base Sienna may get many shoppers’ attention. That’s almost $1,000 less than the equivalent Odyssey ($37,840), and the price includes a standard hybrid engine with substantially better fuel economy (another money saver). We’ll cover powertrains and fuel economy later.
However, the choice gets less clear as you move up the trims. The next-tier Odyssey EX-L costs $40,918, while the equivalent Sienna XLE stickers are $42,195. Not only is the Honda cheaper, but it also includes leather upholstery. The Sienna has leatherette-trimmed seating. So, while these Toyota buyers would still get a hybrid setup, they’ll pay more and still not have cowhide on the inside.
If leather seating is a must-have in the Sienna, a buyer has to step up at least to the 25th Anniversary Special Edition for $48,170.
Meanwhile, the Odyssey Sport and Sienna XSE are matched in appearance. Blacked-out accents and other unique touches give these editions a more athletic look. No one will confuse these minivans for sports cars, but some buyers appreciate these details.
With a $41,860 MSRP, the Odyssey Sport undercuts the $44,445 sticker of the Sienna XSE by more than $2,500. The extra amount gives Toyota buyers navigation, parking sensors, a hybrid engine, and other goodies.
On the high end, the top-tier Odyssey ($49,970) just slides in under the $50,000 threshold, while the equivalent Sienna Platinum ($52,345) hasn’t seen that price tag for a few years. Both cars are evenly matched regarding features (leather, moonroof, heated and cooled front seats, etc.), so buyers can better determine if the $2,375 extra for a hybrid-powered Sienna is worthwhile.
At the same time, it’s hard to argue against the value of the base Sienna LE. It’s cheaper than the Odyssey EX and unmatched in fuel economy (36 MPG).
| 2023 Honda Odyssey Model | Starting Price |
| EX | $37,840 |
| EX-L | $40,918 |
| Sport | $41,860 |
| Touring | $45,100 |
| Elite | $49,970 |
| 2023 Toyota Sienna Model | Starting Price |
| LE | $36,885 |
| XLE | $42,195 |
| XSE | $44,445 |
| Woodland Edition | $47,695 |
| 25th Anniversary Special Edition | $48,170 |
| Limited | $49,145 |
| Platinum | $52,345 |
2023 | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna | Specifications | Safety, Interior and Exterior Features
There’s more to choosing a minivan than selecting among these different boxes on wheels. Understanding each vehicle’s specifications can help lead to a better-informed purchase.
Vehicle Class & Body Style:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies vehicles by interior passenger volume and cargo space. The agency has carved out a special category (“minivan”) for the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna (and other competitors: Kia Carnival and Chrysler Pacifica). It’s only fair because minivans have a unique body style.
Yet it will come as no surprise that these vehicles are nearly identical in passenger volume. Most Odysseys have 160.1 cubic feet inside (the EX comes with 163.6 cubic feet) against the Sienna’s 162.5 cubic feet. If an extra cubic foot or two of passenger volume might make a difference in daily driving, you’re probably looking at the wrong vehicle. Cargo space is another matter; this is detailed later.
We’ll examine the Odyssey and Sienna dimensions in greater detail later.
| 2023 Honda Odyssey | 2023 Toyota Sienna | |
| Class | Minivan | Minivan |
| 4-Door Minivan | EX, EX-L, Sport, Touring, Elite |
LE, XLE, XSE, Woodland edition, 25th Anniversary Edition, Limited, Platinum |
Powertrain:
Engine Options & Specifications:
The Odyssey’s and Sienna’s sameness goes away when talking about engines. As far as what’s under the hood, these vehicles couldn’t be any further apart.
Honda relies on a tried-and-true 3.5-liter V6 engine based on a design the company has used for decades. Its 280 horsepower is downright spunky for a minivan. A 0-60 MPH time of 6.6 seconds is faster than many cars. If strong acceleration is a must-have, you’ll feel right at home behind the wheel of an Odyssey.
Toyota takes a very different approach with the Sienna. Its 245-horsepower hybrid system is geared toward fuel economy. While the core 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine has been in Toyota’s parts bin for years, hybrid technology only came to the Sienna in 2021. An 8-second 0-60 time is pokey compared to the Honda. So, pedal stompers may find this Toyota to be lacking.
However, the Sienna’s 630-mile range is among its most impressive capabilities and overshadows the Odyssey’s 429-mile range. That extra 200 miles of travel ability can make all the difference during a long-distance road trip with a load of sleepy kids onboard.
Transmission Options & Specifications:
The powertrain disparity between the Odyssey and Sienna continues with the transmission. Honda uses a state-of-the-art ten-speed automatic gearbox to deliver a pleasing blend of performance and efficiency. This transmission type is well-suited to take advantage of what large engines (like Honda’s V6) can provide.
Toyota’s methodology for managing hybrid engine power is anything but conventional. Like all its hybrids, the company uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) to emphasize fuel economy over acceleration. It’s a newer technology that many other automakers also use with their hybrid systems.
See the “Tech Talk” section below the charts to learn about CVTs and eCVTs.
TECH TALK: CVTs
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) does not use gears like a typical automatic transmission. Instead, it has two pulleys connected by a belt. One pulley connects to the engine, and the other connects to the wheels. The belt transfers the power between the pulleys. This setup allows the pulleys to continuously change positions as needed. The CVT automatically adjusts the pulleys as required, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.
An electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) uses electronic controls and electric motors to vary gear ratios instead of a belt and pulley system. Unlike a regular CVT, an eCVT has no physical pulleys or belts—the gear ratio is adjusted seamlessly by controlling the speeds of electric motors and generators. This electronic control allows faster, smoother gear ratio changes compared to a traditional CVT. An eCVT also provides more flexibility, needing less space and having fewer moving parts.
Drivetrain:
If all you want in a minivan is front-wheel drive (FWD)—flip a coin because that’s standard equipment for the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. For most drivers, FWD can easily handle rainy weather and occasionally snow-covered roads.
However, the Sienna gains a distinct advantage by offering all-wheel drive (AWD) on all trims (it’s standard with the Woodland Edition). This availability is a smart move on Toyota’s part. Buyers needing extra space and the confidence of all-wheel drive (AWD) no longer have to focus just on SUVs. Only the Sienna and the Chrysler Pacifica offer AWD in the minivan segment.
| 2023 Honda Odyssey Wheel Drive | FWD | AWD | RWD |
| EX | S | ||
| EX-L | S | ||
| Sport | S | ||
| Touring | S | ||
| Elite | S |
| 2023 Toyota Sienna Wheel Drive | FWD | AWD | RWD |
| LE | S | E | |
| XLE | S | E | |
| XSE | S | E | |
| Woodland Edition | E | ||
| 25th Anniversary Edition | S | E | |
| Limited | S | E | |
| Platinum | S | E |
U = Available in upgrade
E = electric on-demand AWD
Safety:
NHTSA Safety Ratings
Parents and other caregivers rely on Odysseys and Siennas to secure their offspring. FIXD surveys reveal that 51% of Odyssey owners rely on their cars for family transportation. It’s 55% for those with a Sienna.
These vehicles also get used for “lots of driving,” meaning commuting and long trips. These activities are typical for 30% of Odyssey owners and 25% of Sienna owners. It all adds up to a great deal of time behind the wheel, often accompanied by valuable “cargo.”
Hence, the importance of safety can’t be overstated for the Odyssey and Sienna.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash test results show that these Hondas and Siennas deliver on safety. Both vehicles receive a perfect 5 out of 5 for overall safety performance. Yet, the Sienna takes a step back in frontal crash testing, receiving a 4. But we’ll chime in by saying that a 4 or better (out of 5) in NHTSA testing is still respectable.
Keep that in mind, with the Odyssey and Sienna ranking a 4 in the government rollover assessments. It’s not an unusual finding with top-heavy vehicles like minivans, trucks, and SUVs.
IIHS Awards:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) takes a somewhat different approach to safety testing. In particular, it focuses on its small frontal overlap crash test, which the organization feels represents a more real-world scenario (a single car running into a fixed object). IIHS also looks at side impact crashes, roof strength, headlight effectiveness, and advanced driver safety technologies (like automatic emergency braking).
While tested vehicles receive a Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor grade, the true measure comes if a car gets a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designation. If “Good” is a “B” grade, Top Safety Pick notches things up to an “A-,” and the Top Safety Pick+ signifies an “A+”
The 2023 Honda Odyssey and 2023 Toyota Sienna are rated Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS
| IIHS Award | Tested Vehicles | ||
| 2023 Honda Odyssey | MINIVAN | 2023 TOP SAFETY PICK + | 2018 Honda Odyssey LX, EX-L, and Touring |
| 2021 Honda Odyssey Elite | |||
| 2023 Toyota Sienna | MINIVAN | 2023 TOP SAFETY PICK + | 2021 Toyota Sienna LE and XLE Hybrid |
Airbags & Head Restraints:
Given the safety focus of many minivan shoppers, the Odyssey and Sienna are expected to have a full complement of airbags. These devices are crucial to crash survivability, according to IIHS and the Highway Loss Data Institute;
- Cars with front airbags have 29% fewer fatalities in frontal crashes. Front-seat passengers (13+) experience 32% fewer deaths with airbags
- Head-protecting side airbags cut driver death risk by 37% in cars and 52% in SUVs.
In addition to front, side, and side-curtain airbags, these cars use front-row knee airbags to properly position occupants in the event of collision. The Odyssey has these for both front seat positions, while the Sienna only has a knee airbag for the driver.
Neither the Odyssey nor the Sienna come with overhead airbags. This newer technology replaces traditional front-row units (steering wheel and dashboard) with overhead devices. Active head restraints are usually found in specialty and high-end vehicles to minimize whiplash injuries. Mainstream cars like the Corolla and Camry don’t usually come equipped with this feature.
Semi-Autonomous Driving:
While hands-free driving technology may come to future Odysseys and Sienna, it’s not available in the 2023 editions. If this feature is a must-have, you’ll have to skip minivans and shop for something else from Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, General Motors, Ford, or others.
However, the 2023 Odyssey and Sienna come with other driving aids, like adaptive cruise control (ACC). Toyota calls its system Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. ACC can automatically slow down or stop a car when there is slower traffic ahead on the highway. When traffic speeds up again, ACC brings the vehicle back to a preset speed. ACC makes driving easier by reducing the need to brake and accelerate constantly. However, the driver must still pay attention and keep their hands on the wheel, ACC is not fully autonomous.
The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna have lane-keeping assist technology to help a driver stay in their lane. The system relies on sensors to detect road markings and provides a gently correcting action if the car veers out of its lane.
Self-parking technology has yet to appear in the Odyssey and Sienna, even among the top-end trims. Drivers will still have to depend on their DIY skills while navigating tight spaces (although some versions come with parking sensors).
Driver Warning Systems & Telematics:
The 2023 Odyssey and Sienna are competitively matched with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Both have forward collision warning (FCW) that signals if there’s an obstruction that may cause a front crash. Lane departure warning is another standard feature. As the name implies, it alerts the driver if the vehicle moves outside the proper lane.
While not detailed in the chart, automatic emergency braking (AEB) is another critical component of safety systems in these minivans. AEB, which can respond faster than a human driver, automatically brakes the vehicle if it detects an impending collision. Such action can prevent a collision or minimize crash severity.
While not always the case with other Hondas and Toyotas, every Odyssey and Sienna trim level has blind-spot monitoring (BSM) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA). Similarly, both vehicles get traffic sign recognition, a convenience feature that shows speed limit and command sign information on a display for the driver.
If ADAS technology appears like alphabet soup, check out an effort from AAA, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and other groups working to standardize the terminology for these systems.
Road Visibility Features:
There’s no winner in the road visibility features department. The Odyssey and Sienna are similarly equipped with LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a rearview camera (which is required by law). Notably, even the base versions of both minivans get LED headlights with superior illumination over halogen bulbs.
Even the Odyssey Elite and Sienna Platinum are matched with rain-sensing windshield wipers. The only edge goes to the top-dog Sienna Platinum; it gets a head-up display (which shows speed and other key information on the windshield).
Interior:
Interior Features:
For minivan drivers who can’t live without their smartphones, there’s comfort in knowing that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard in the 2023 Odyssey and Sienna. Both Honda and Toyota also deserve bonus points for including heated front seats with all trim levels of the Odyssey and Sienna. Waiting for the kids to finish soccer practice on a chilly day won’t be so bad.
And speaking of heated seats, some automakers offer this feature through a subscription service. This hasn’t yet happened in the U.S., but in certain countries, BMW offered heated seats for a monthly fee. The advantage is you can shut off the service during warm months, but you’ll need to keep paying (or pay a one-time upfront fee) to activate the heated seats. Recently, BMW announced it was backing away from this practice. Moving forward, the automaker will only charge a subscription for software-based services (like upgraded navigation). Hardware-based features will be part of the vehicle’s initial purchase price.
One industry study shows mixed results for consumer acceptance of features on demand (FoD), with about one-fifth not even being aware of the concept.
Interior Dimensions:
As mentioned earlier, the interior space of the Odyssey and Sienna are similar (160.1-163.6 cubic feet for the Odyssey versus 162.5 cubic feet for the Sienna). As a result, don’t expect huge variations in how this translates into passenger room.
The Odyssey gains in front legroom (40.9 inches) over the Sienna (40.3 inches). It’s the same with second-row legroom: 40.9 inches against 39.9 inches. The third row has only a 0.6-inch difference (in the Sienna’s favor).
There is more back-and-forth, with the Honda having greater front-row shoulder room while the Sienna has the edge in hip room across all three rows. Frankly, the best way to see how everyone fits is to bring the entire crew to the dealership for a real-world test.
Meanwhile, we do need to point out where the Odyssey excels. This centers on cargo space. Behind the second row, the Honda offers 86.6 cubic feet against the Toyota’s 75.2 cubic feet. The difference gets more extreme behind the first row, with 140.7-144.9 cubic feet for the Odyssey and 101.0 cubic feet for the Sienna. Cargo capacity is important if you regularly carry bulky things instead of people.
You’ll also want to closely look at seating capacity if you’re more into people hauling. Although it’s a tight squeeze, every version of the Odyssey has room for eight. Transporting the same number in a Sienna means getting the base LE and next-level XLE (with a second-row bench seat). All other Sienna trims only have room for seven.
Exterior:
Exterior Features:
Wheels may also be an afterthought for many car buyers. But wheel size can impact ride quality. Larger rims can translate into better traction and cornering but may result in a bumpier ride. Bigger wheels also offer better aesthetics by filling out the wheel wells more completely. This is why the higher the trim, the larger the wheel. Different materials (steel or alloy) and finishes also help separate the wheels among the various trim levels.
One word describes the color pallets for the Odyssey and Sienna: muted. Even the reds and blues (and green for the Sienna) are subtle. After all, these are family vehicles. So, you won’t find any screaming exteriors here. However, you won’t be disappointed if you’re okay with white, black, gray, or silver.
Exterior Dimensions:
Minivans haven’t been “mini” for a long time. The breakthrough 1984 Dodge Caravan (and sister Plymouth Voyager) measured 175.9 inches in length. Today’s Odyssey and Sienna are about two-and-a-half feet longer. That’s just a few inches shy of a Chevrolet Tahoe.
Between the two, the Odyssey is slightly longer (about 1-2 inches) than the Sienna while the width and height measurements are virtually identical. The length may make a difference if you have a very tight parking space to deal with. Otherwise, exterior dimensions won’t matter.
However, there are two other measurements to consider. With a 4.5-inch ground clearance, the Odyssey sits closer to the pavement (the Sienna has a 6.37-inch ground clearance). This characteristic can make vehicle entry and exit easier, particularly for younger children. On the other hand, the Sienna’s taller ground clearance is more advantageous for driving over speed bumps and uneven surfaces.
Further, despite the Sienna’s shorter length, it has a longer wheelbase (120.5 inches) than the Odyssey at 118.1 inches. A greater wheelbase often translates into a more comfortable ride, especially while traveling over highway expansion strips. You’ll want to test-drive both minivans to see if you detect a difference.
Warranty
Another area where the Odyssey and Sienna closely match is with manufacturer’s warranty coverage. Each vehicle has a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a powertrain plan (engine, transmission, and drive axles) for five years or 60,000 miles.
However, Honda does offer modestly better protection via three years (or 36,000 miles) of roadside assistance versus two years (and no mileage limitation) from Toyota. Honda also includes an extra year of warranty for the air conditioner (which provides for recharging the system). In truth, this additional air conditioner protection seldom matters with newer vehicles.
| 2023 Honda Odyssey Factory Warranty Coverage: | 2023 Toyota Sienna Factory Warranty Coverage: | |
| Basic warranty: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 36 months/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty: | 60 months/60,000 miles | 60 months/60,000 miles |
| Corrosion perforation warranty: | 60 months/unlimited miles | 60 months/unlimited miles |
| Air conditioning warranty: | 24 months/24,000 miles | 12 months/12,000 miles |
| Battery warranty: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 120 months/150,000 miles |
| Emissions warranty: | Federal: 36 months/36,000 miles California: 36 months/50,000 miles | Federal: 36 months/36,000 miles California: 36 months /50,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance coverage: | 36 months/36,000 miles | 24 months/unlimited miles |
| Total unique recalls: | 1 | 0 |
Driver Experience | A Summary of The Top 10 Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna Reddit Posts:
Let’s examine recent Reddit comments (Reddit: r/whatcarshouldIbuy) comparing the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.
The Honda Odyssey earns praise from several Redditors for its powerful V6 engine, smooth ride quality, and reliability. One commenter states, “I’ve had the Honda Odyssey for a couple of years now and it’s been very reliable. The V6 engine is robust and the ride is smooth.” Another mentions, “I prefer the Odyssey for its engine performance. It feels more powerful and responsive on the road.” For many, the Odyssey seems to be viewed as having better engine power and greater longevity.
However, the Toyota Sienna’s hybrid fuel efficiency is a significant advantage highlighted by several commenters. One shares, “I have both the Odyssey and Sienna in my family—the Odyssey has been more reliable in the long run, though the Sienna’s fuel efficiency as a hybrid is hard to beat.” Another review says, “The Sienna’s hybrid engine is much more fuel-efficient. If you’re doing a lot of city driving, it’s a good choice.”
There are mixed views on comfort and maintenance costs. One person remarks, “I found the Odyssey to have much more comfortable seating than the Sienna,” while another counters, “If you’re looking at older models, the mileage on the Sienna tends to be better.”
In the end, both minivans have their pros and cons. As one user concludes, “The Odyssey has a more robust engine, but the Sienna is more fuel-efficient. It depends on what your priorities are.” The key seems to be weighing power versus fuel economy.
Who Should Buy These Cars: The Legacy of The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna
Guessing that minivans are primarily used for family transportation would be spot on. FIXD surveys confirm that Odyssey and Sienna owners use their minivans primarily to carry loved ones. Yet, these vehicles have a frequent secondary duty, “Lots of Driving,” essentially commuting and longer-distance traveling. All these uses are expected; both Odyssey and Sienna are spacious and comfortable.
Buyers looking for longevity will appreciate that the Odyssey and Sienna have excellent histories of reaching 150,000 miles with ease. Based on owner-supplied data, greater mileage doesn’t appear to be an issue either.
| Frequent Use Categories: | Honda Odyssey | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) | Toyota Sienna | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | * * * * * | * * * * * |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | * * * | * * * |
| Hauling/Towing | * | * |
| Office on Wheels | * | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * | * |
Best & Worst Years | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna | 2001-2024
This overview graphic of the best and worst years of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna offers insightful details. Mainly, you’ll want to avoid any Sienna from before the 2012 model year. The pickings are also slim among older Odysseys. If the budget is tight, stick with a 2004, 2009, or 2010 Honda Odyssey. You’ll have better odds for fewer repairs.
But the selection broadens, starting with the 2012 editions. Except for the 2014 model year, many Honda minivans make excellent second-hand vehicles. The same goes for the Sienna, with smooth used-car sailing from 2012 through 2021.
You’ll want to pay attention to the years marked in yellow. These fall into the undecided category because of insufficient data. We don’t know enough here to pass judgment (good or bad) about these model years. These may be the best or worst minivans ever made, but you’ll have to determine this on your own.
Important Features Timeline | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
This overview chart (it’s not exhaustive) highlights when the Odyssey and Sienna received major safety, comfort, and convenience features. It’s evident that Honda gets bragging for innovation.
The Odyssey got blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, parking sensors, and a rearview camera before the Sienna. The same applies to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, ventilated front seats, and a driver’s seat memory system.
Toyota does get credit for being first with a power front passenger seat and remote start. And, of course, the Sienna is available with all-wheel drive, a feature never offered with the Odyssey (even though it shares many components with the Honda Pilot SUV).
Maintenance Costs (Year-by-Year Average) | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
This chart details average Odyssey and Sienna maintenance and repair expenses based on FIXD surveys for the respective model years. Understandably, costs are higher for older examples (you’ll recall the 2012 dividing line in the previous section about these minivans’ best and worst years).
Interestingly, the combined average among all the analyzed years produced near-identical results. Overall, Honda Odyssey owners spent $606 to keep their cars on the road, compared to $617 for the Toyota Sienna.
Understandably, upkeep costs for specific years far exceed these averages. In particular, the 2002, 2007, 2011, and 2014 appear costly. The same can be said for the 2002, 2007, 2008, and 2001 Sienna.
These exceptions reinforce that each car is used differently and may not receive identical maintenance. It’s helpful to keep this in mind while used car shopping.
Review the best and worst years of the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna to learn more about maintenance and repair costs for these vehicles.
Safety Rating Comparison | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
Let’s start our discussion of the Odyssey and Sienna safety rating by saying that any score of 4 (out of 5) can be considered a good rating. Clearly, NHTSA testing shows that both vehicles meet this standard. Both manufacturers know minivans are bought primarily as family vehicles and safety sells.
Yet, a close-up look at the results uncovers that the Odyssey consistently edges out the Sienna in these government safety assessments. The contrasts aren’t that significant. In terms of letter grades, it might be the difference between an A and an A-. Yet, there is a separation, even if it’s modest. Awareness of this differentiation may only matter if you’re stuck between an Odyssey and a Sienna and need a deciding factor to break the tie.
It’s also worth mentioning the 2011 model year. This is when NHTSA introduced more stringent testing. The change, known a few years in advance, coincided with the release of all-new designs for the Odyssey and Sienna.
Honda took this to heart and built a minivan capable of delivering near-perfect safety scores. Seemingly, Toyota engineers didn’t do such a good job with the 2011 Sienna falling noticeably behind (but still receiving a good score). Toyota didn’t reduce the gap until the 2014 model year.
More details about crash test safety scores are covered in articles about the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison | Honda Odyssey vs. Toyota Sienna
2011 marks a transformative year in the Odyssey versus Sienna slugfest. This is when the Honda moved ahead of the Sienna in fuel economy. A few extra MPGs may not seem like much, but they provide a 5%–10% reduction in fuel costs and hundreds of dollars in annual savings for an Odyssey owner who drives a lot.
The Sienna’s consistent second-place status with fuel economy may have been one of the reasons for Toyota going hybrid-only with the Sienna in 2021. Performance of 36 MPG was once reserved for economy cars. So, seeing this achievement in a people hauler is remarkable.
For those with a singular focus on using less gas, 2021 and newer Toyota Siennas are the true fuel economy champions.
Methodology
- Compare two vehicles, Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna, and provide a comprehensive analysis.
- Gather relevant information and data on both vehicles from reliable sources, such as manufacturer specifications, expert reviews, customer feedback, industry reports, and data sources like manufacturer websites, FIXD App, Kelley Blue Book, FuelEconomy.gov, and NHTSA.
- Collect data on various aspects, including performance, safety features, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, reliability, owner satisfaction, and market value.
- Identify the key criteria that will be used to evaluate and compare the two vehicles.
- Ensure the criteria cover both objective factors (such as performance metrics, safety ratings, and fuel efficiency) and subjective factors (such as owner satisfaction, comfort, and features).
- Assess the performance of both vehicles based on factors such as acceleration, handling, braking, and overall driving experience.
- Compare engine options, horsepower, torque, transmission options, and any unique performance features.
- Examine the safety features and ratings of both vehicles.
- Evaluate crash test ratings, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), active and passive safety features, and any notable recalls or known issues related to safety.
- Consider both NHTSA safety ratings and IIHS awards for a comprehensive safety assessment.
- Analyze the fuel economy of both vehicles based on EPA mileage estimates.
- Compare their MPG ratings, average full-tank range, and any significant differences in fuel efficiency.
- Assess the average annual maintenance and repair costs for both vehicles.
- Consider data from surveyed owners and other reliable sources, such as FIXD App owner surveys, to determine the overall cost of ownership over time.
- Evaluate the reliability of both vehicles based on owner reports, FIXD App data, and any known issues or recalls.
- Consider factors such as engine reliability, common problems by model year, long-term durability, and owner reliability scores gathered from surveys.
- Consider owner satisfaction by gathering information from forums, online communities (Reddit: r/whatcarshouldIbuy), customer reviews, and owner reliability scores.
- Summarize key factors that owners appreciate and any common complaints or drawbacks mentioned by owners.
- Compare the features and technologies offered by both vehicles.
- Highlight any notable differences in terms of infotainment systems, connectivity options, driver assistance features, interior quality, and available upgrades.
- Assess the market value and depreciation of both vehicles.
- Compare average prices, resale value, and how the vehicles hold their value over time.
- Consider average private-seller valuations from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) for a comprehensive assessment.
- Summarize the findings of the comparison, highlighting the positives and negatives of each vehicle.
- Provide a fair and balanced recommendation based on the comparison, considering factors such as budget, personal preferences, specific needs of the buyer, and the comprehensive analysis conducted.
Sources:
- KBB Values: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Chevrolet Equinox with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov.
- Annual Maintenance/Repairs: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Chevrolet Equinox owners.
- Safety Ratings: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph. We also collected IIHS Awards for this article.
- Vehicle Features: Most or all information gathered on vehicle features were from the manufacturer websites, in this case, Hondacars.com and Toyota.com.
Dave Goldberg is an automotive journalist and lifelong car fanatic. He writes for numerous enthusiast and business outlets and is an ongoing contributor to HotCars.com, one of the most popular car culture websites. When he’s not writing or driving, Dave is either under a hood or asleep. His credentials include a BA in Journalism from The George Washington University.
