Honda Odyssey
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Resale, reliability, interior room, features, fuel economy, safety
Below Average: Horsepower on early models
Consensus: One of the most reliable, most practical and most enjoyable minivans you can buy.
Nissan Quest
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Unique interior, comfortable seats, fuel economy
Below Average: Only seats seven, no advanced driver assists
Consensus: An older, somewhat quirky design without much to challenge the segment leaders, the Quest appeals to those who prefer form over function.
The Honda Odyssey offers value galore, with some of the best fuel economy numbers in the segment. It’s interior is big, roomy and versatile, with unique features such as its Magic Slide 2nd-row seats and an in-cabin vacuum to clean up unexpected spills. The Nissan quest isn’t as large as the Odyssey, with seating for seven and a polarizing exterior design you’ll either love or hate. Inside, the Quest offers one of the most unique interiors ever put in a minivan, with bold colors, a radical dash design and unique features like a dual panel moonroof. The Quest’s V6 is as powerful and fuel efficient as the Odyssey’s V6, but its steering isn’t as precise. However, the Quest does offer a very smooth ride. The Odyssey uses a traditional transmission, whereas the Quest relies on Nissan’s CVT (continuously variable transmission) which has proven problematic on early models. Late model Odyssey vans offer advanced collision mitigation, as well as other driver assists unavailable on the Quest. The Quest also doesn’t score as well as the Odyssey in IIHS crash testing, and there is no advantage for either when it comes to factory and CPO warranty coverage.
Honda Odyssey Advantages
Seating for 8, resale and reliability, built in vacuum on some models, cargo bay, advanced driver assists, Magic Slide 2nd-row seats
Nissan Quest Advantages
Cool interior, unique features, fuel economy
Similarities
Both vans offer a strong V6 and good fuel economy. Passenger comfort is high and upper level trims offer a number of luxury features.
Final Recommendation
The Honda Odyssey is the better of the two vans. It can seat more passengers, has a more kid-friendly interior, offers better resale and reliability ratings and a better driving experience. The Quest has its positives, but they are mostly in the areas of features, interior design and style, not necessarily the top priorities for most families.
OK, so what’s next?
I’m ready for one of these cars, and I’d like to trade in my current car while I’m at it.
