Minivan buyers typically prioritize the safety of their loved ones above all else. That’s why the 2021 Chrysler Voyager and 2021 Kia Sedona aren’t the best options for families.

This dwindling segment is becoming more competitive by the year. Minivans are becoming more advanced, techy, eco-friendly, and safe. But as some models innovate, others are left behind in the dust.

How are the Voyager and the Sedona falling behind, and are these minivans a safe choice for your family? Let’s explore what these models have to offer.

The 2021 Chrysler Voyager and 2021 Kia Sedona’s affordability comes at a price

Everyone likes a good deal, and the Voyager and Sedona look the part. However, these minivans have a low price point for a reason.

Other models in the segment are packed with smart safety systems that sense and react to dangerous situations. For instance, the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey come with a suite of standard safety features. These include front-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more.

Plus, the Chrysler Pacifica – the brand’s upscale minivan – features next-generation technology like adaptive cruise control on its base model. Meanwhile, the 2021 Chrysler Voyager and 2021 Kia Sedona remain in the dark ages.

It’s no wonder why the U.S. News & World Report ranked the Chrysler Voyager and Kia Sedona last among all 2021 minivans. 

These are the only two new minivans on the market that lack significant standard driver-assistance technologies. In fact, drivers will only be able to make use of a rearview camera on base models.

Thankfully, Chrysler and Kia offer smart safety systems via packages and higher trim levels. 

How much does it cost to add safety systems to these minivans?

At $27,235, the 2021 Chrysler Voyager has the lowest starting MSRP in its class. While this budget-friendly minivan is tempting, it’s better to invest more money into it or choose another model altogether.

Thankfully, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to get some basic driver-assist systems on the Voyager.

Shoppers can add the SafetyTec package to the base trim for just $895. It includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors.

While this package doesn’t make the Voyager the most tech-savvy model in its class, it’ll appease safety-conscious shoppers.

Turning the 2021 Kia Sedona into a safer minivan is a much more daunting task. This model has a starting MSRP of $30,400. But you’ll have to upgrade to the EX ($33,700) trim to get blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors.

However, it’ll cost an additional $4,800 to gain the most crucial driver-assistance technologies through the EX Premium Package. It includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a driver drowsiness monitor.

The final verdict

The 2021 Chrysler Voyager and 2021 Kia Sedona need significant overhauls. Thankfully, one might be on the horizon.

The Sedona’s lack of popularity and lackluster reputation may have prompted Kia to change its branding. The Sedona will soon become the Carnival – a name the South Korean manufacturer uses in foreign markets.

In the meantime, the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Sienna remain superior options in the class. Starting at $31,790, the Odyssey is the cheapest of this bunch. And while it can’t match the Voyager’s low price – even with the added safety package – it’s well worth the extra money.