Are you planning to upgrade your vehicle as retirement approaches? Buying a new car every few years can be an unnecessary expense, especially with ever-increasing prices. If you’re searching for a minivan built to last throughout your retirement years, here’s a helpful guide.
This article highlights five minivans to consider buying in 2025, focusing on their reliability and suitability for long-term ownership. The information is based on data from iSeeCars, which analyzed data from over 312 million vehicles.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is a popular choice among minivans, consistently earning high marks for dependability. The iSeeCars study ranked it number one, with a reliability score of 8.7 out of 10. The Sienna offers 39.1 cubic feet of cargo volume and is recognized as one of the safest minivans available. With regular maintenance, a Sienna can easily last over 200,000 miles.
“One of the best things about a Sienna is that it’s available in all-wheel drive (AWD), which makes driving in wintery conditions easier and safer,” explains Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with CarInsurance.org.
Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey is another excellent contender for a long-lasting minivan, ideal for retirement. The iSeeCars study gives the Odyssey a reliability score of 8.7 out of 10. It also leads the pack in gas mileage among minivans, averaging 22 mpg. Like the Sienna, the Odyssey can last over 200,000 miles with proper care.
Musson highlights, “The safety features that come standard in the Odyssey are technologically advanced and surpass industry standards. The Odyssey is often named one of the cheapest vehicles to insure, which helps keep the cost of ownership low, an important consideration for retirees on a budget.”
Kia Sedona
The Kia Sedona comes in third place. The iSeeCars score for the Sedona is 8.1 out of 10. This minivan provides ample legroom, which is ideal for long road trips, and offers an affordable starting price of $36,500 for base models. If you envision cross-country travel in your retirement, the Sedona is worth consideration.
Dodge Grand Caravan
Next up on the list is the Dodge Grand Caravan, with a reliability score of 8.0 out of 10. The Grand Caravan is a strong performer for towing, offering a capacity of 3,600 pounds. This minivan is a good selection if you’re planning to haul a small camper, trailer, or boat during retirement.
Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica also makes the list of minivans that provide long-term value, with a reliability score of 6.1 out of 10. It matches the Grand Caravan’s towing capacity of 3,600 pounds and achieves competitive fuel efficiency, ranging between 20 and 22 mpg. While the base model’s price is higher at $42,450, it’s still a strong choice.
Joe Giranda, a car expert and the Director of Sales & Marketing at CFR Classic, notes, “The Chrysler Pacifica stands out for its upscale feel and innovative features. It’s available as a plug-in hybrid (Pacifica Hybrid), which offers up to 32 miles of all-electric range, perfect for short trips around town or running errands. The Pacifica also features Stow ‘n Go seating, allowing the rear seats to fold flat into the floor for maximum cargo flexibility. Its quiet cabin and smooth ride make it an ideal option for retirees who value comfort.”
The Bottom Line
Have any of these minivans caught your eye? When approaching retirement, it’s crucial to think about the longevity of the vehicle you plan to buy. Unexpectedly trading in your minivan after only a few years can disrupt your financial plans. Before you head to the dealership, consider these minivan options to find the perfect fit for your retirement lifestyle and budget.
