New minivan options have dwindled, but you still have a few splendid models to consider. Two of your most viable options for a brand-new minivan are Honda’s  Odyssey and Kia’s Sedona. We’ve noticed that buyers often ask: which is better, the Kia Sedona or the Honda Odyssey?

Driving the 2021 Kia Sedona vs. the 2021 Honda Odyssey 

Judging based on outward appearances alone, the Sedona and the Odyssey serve up completely different flavors. The Sedona entices with its sleek shape, which makes it look more like an SUV. On the flip side, the Odyssey unabashedly looks like a minivan. Honda has given the Odyssey a sharper look over the years, but it’s still a pretty bulky vehicle.

Despite its somewhat understated appearance, the Odyssey provides an unusually agile driving experience. As with the outgoing model, the 2021 Odyssey has a 280-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Odyssey offers plenty of power, and it’s well-mannered. 

The Sedona also earns acclaim for its punchy power. This Kia comes with a 276-hp, 3.3-liter V6 paired to an eight-speed automatic. Critics like the U.S. News are impressed with the Sedona’s “poised handling” and relaxed nature.

However, the Sedona isn’t as agile as the Odyssey, and sometimes it feels too stiff. Regarding fuel economy, these minivans are more evenly matched. The 2021 Odyssey has an EPA rating of 22 mpg over; the Sedona’s rating is a point lower. 

Comparing creature comforts 

The 2021 Sedona begins at $30,400; the 2021 Odyssey starts at $31,790. Both the Sedona and the Odyssey have high-quality cabins. Furthermore, the Sedona and the Odyssey can seat up to seven or eight, depending on the trim level. Both minivans also have good storage space. But as you can imagine, there are some trade-offs with the minivans’ features. 

The Sedona comes with a 7-inch touchscreen plus Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. You have to upgrade for infotainment gadgets like these on the Odyssey since its standard features include a 5-inch display screen and Bluetooth. Although, the Odyssey is more impressive in the active safety department.

The Odyssey has Honda’s advanced driver’s assistance technology, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. With the Sedona, these functions are available as upgrades but aren’t standard. Like the Odyssey, the Sedona has an optional rear-seat entertainment system for the kiddos. However, the Odyssey offers more family-friendly amenities, including a wifi hotspot, an in-car PA system, and a vacuum cleaner. 

So which is better, the Sedona or Odyssey?

RELATED: Is the Toyota Sienna the Most Reliable Minivan?

What made the Sedona more attractive for the 2020 model year is its reliability ratings. Consumer Reports gave the outgoing 2020 Sedona a three out of five rating for predicted reliability while the 2020 Odyssey got a two out of five. Simultaneously, Consumer Reports also recognizes the Odyssey as a model most likely to go for 200,000 miles or more; the Sedona didn’t receive the same recognition. 

That said, the Odyssey has more going for it than the Sedona. The Odyssey is more fun to drive and has more family-friendly features. While the Sedona is a standout for its style, it lacks many of the available comforts minivans are known for.