Best new van out there?
- Thread starter binny
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kimwim8
<font color=red>Won't admit to anything<br><font c
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I have a 2003 Potiac Montana & love it. It's my second Montana in a row. I stick with GM vehicles b/c I have the GM credit card to earn down payments, so I can't really help you out with other brands/models.
Good luck and enjoy your new van!
Good luck and enjoy your new van!
JessetheCowgirl
DIS Veteran
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We've been researching for new van and are very impressed with the Toyota Sienna.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Hi Binny!
Let me know what you find out! I, too, am driving a '96 wagon...we poured money into it last winter and are crossing our fingers that it will hold out for one more year. Anyway, I'm thrilled to be looking at the new vans out ther because I know I'll be buying one about this time next year. Good luck and have fun...I'm SO jealous!! Keep info coming, guys!
Let me know what you find out! I, too, am driving a '96 wagon...we poured money into it last winter and are crossing our fingers that it will hold out for one more year. Anyway, I'm thrilled to be looking at the new vans out ther because I know I'll be buying one about this time next year. Good luck and have fun...I'm SO jealous!! Keep info coming, guys!
In my research, when I was considering a van, it was either the Toyota Sienna or the Honda Odyssey. Both are more expensive initially but have great track records as far as long term reliability.
BUT, the dealers know this, aren't willing to negotiate much on the sales prices.
I would rather consider a nice Chrysler/Dodge GC product new, with great incentives. Their reliability has vastly improved. BTW, we looked at the stow and go seating, weren't willing to give up seating comfort for the storage capacity on those. The 04's are at/below invoice, with financing and cash incentives available.
Edmunds.com is an invaluable resource for car research!
BUT, the dealers know this, aren't willing to negotiate much on the sales prices.
I would rather consider a nice Chrysler/Dodge GC product new, with great incentives. Their reliability has vastly improved. BTW, we looked at the stow and go seating, weren't willing to give up seating comfort for the storage capacity on those. The 04's are at/below invoice, with financing and cash incentives available.
Edmunds.com is an invaluable resource for car research!
Thanks for the replys, for other wanting the info here is what a friend posted over at YDF...
The top two are the Toyota Sienna and the Honda Odyssey,although here is the info on the top few,according to Car and Driver and consumer eports. Happy Shopping!
Though sport utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to gain in popularity, the minivan market is still going strong with about a million sold per year. Car and Driver magazine says that minivans are better choices than SUVs for many families, with roomier interiors and better fuel economy. One model this year stands heads and shoulders over other models in reviews: The top-rated Toyota Sienna. No other minivan comes close to garnering more favorable reviews.
For the 2004 model year, Ford replaced its older Windstar with the similarly styled Freestar. This new vehicle does well in crash tests and has a large 4.2-liter 6-cylinder engine available, but Edmunds.com notes that it is underpowered, does not handle especially well, and has significantly less cargo capacity than either the Sienna or Odyssey. Ford subsidiary Mercury sells an almost identical vehicle called the Monterey, which replaces the Mercury Villager.
Kia introduced its value-priced Sedona minivan in 2002. Critics have praised the Sedona for its value pricing, starting at only $19,000. Even when fully loaded, prices climb to only about $25,000, less than a similarly equipped Sienna or Odyssey. The Sedona impresses with the best warranty in its class (5-year/60,000 basic and 10-year/100,000-miles for the powertrain). Even so, problems include poor fuel economyat 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, no minivan scores lowerand a lack of sophistication relative other minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna.
After fours years as reviewers favorite minivan, the Honda Odyssey has been unseated. The overwhelming critics choice for best minivan this year is Toyotas recently reinvented Sienna (*est. $24,000 to $39,000). Auto reviewers praise the Sienna for its considerate design, sturdy build and attention to detail. Like the Siennas top competitors, the third-row seats disappear into the floor. But in the Sienna, these disappearing seats are also split-folding to increase cargo/passenger versatility, and they can be folded into the floor without first removing their headrests. Experts say the folding mechanism itself is spring-assisted to make it easier to operate. Thoughtful details and practical niceties like this help propel Sienna to the top of reviewers lists, and to ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.
>> Where to buy
Reviewers say the Sienna is also one of the roomiest minivans. It has roughly the same exterior dimensions as the Dodge Grand Caravan, but has a more commodious interior. Despite its large size, the Sienna has a best-in-class 36.8-foot turning circle, which aids in parking and urban driving. Fuel economy is also best-in-class at 19 miles-per-gallon city/27mpg highway (only the massive Dodge Sprinter edges out the Sienna in fuel economy, but is far slower and only uses diesel fuel, say reviewers).
Critics note that the Sienna rides exceptionally smoothly and delivers performance on par with the best in this class. It can accelerate to 60 in less than 9 seconds and corners about as well as a family sedan. Toyota offers all-wheel drive models for those who deal with snowy or slick conditions; the all-wheel drive variant is slightly slower and less fuel efficient, but has better traction.
The Honda Odyssey (*est. $24,000 to $31,000, depending on options) also remains a solid contender in reviews. While the Odyssey lacks a few features found on the Toyota and gets less miles-per-gallon, it still offers a smooth ride, very good handling and the high resale value that stems from a reputation for reliability. Motor Trend notes that the Odyssey is relatively inexpensive and serves as a value leader in the minivan segment.
Though not quite equal to the Sienna or Odyssey, DaimlerChrysler vans, which include the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodges Caravan and Grand Caravan, have a reasonably high reliability and safety record. Critics say they also have good looks, excellent ride and handling, good visibility, strong brakes and a kid-proof interior. These models received substantial revisions recently, including second and third-row seats that fold flat into the floor. DaimlerChrysler has also lowered the base prices of these models. Prices range from $19,000 to $38,000, depending on options. With the same powertrains as older models (minus the all-wheel drive option thats been dropped due to poor sales) the new models are expected to fair well.
The Mazda MPV comes in only one sizesmall. At 187.8 inches long, reviewers say its less roomy but more maneuverable and better handling than most of its peers. Like the Sienna, it also boasts powered roll-down windows in its side sliding doors (most competitors have fixed side windows). For the 2002 model year, Mazda replaced a much-criticized 2.5-liter 170 horsepower engine with a 3-liter, 200-horsepower unit. Initial acceleration tests by reviewers dont indicate that the revised MPV is a rocket, but its no longer a sluggard.
General Motors is gearing up to replace its line of minivans late this year. For now, GM continues to offer the Pontiac Montana, Chevrolet Venture and the Silhouette from moribund Oldsmobile. Reviewers are not thrilled with these existing vehicles, criticizing their visibility, rear seats, and overall feel and build quality. Car and Drivers initial reports on the new vehicles seem under-whelming. The new vehicles will include Chevrolets Uplander and Pontiacs Montana SV6; as well as two brands that have never before offered minivansSaturn and Buick. Saturns offering is called the Relay and Buicks will be called the Terraza.
These new GM vans are narrower than some competitors, which may increase maneuverability at the price of interior room. Car and Driver notes these models do not have seats that fold into the floor, like some competitors. Nor do the new vans offer a power-liftgate option, curtain-airbags, or other side-impact protection for second- and third-row seats. The new vans will all be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine putting out 200 horsepower. All-wheel drive will be available.
Nissan recently released a new version of its long-running Quest minivan. The new van features very dramatic styling meant to appeal to those SUV buyers and others who may have found minivans too staid. Some experts have criticized the styling, especially on the interior, where they indicate functionality has been hindered. The Quest is built on a heavily modified Altima platform, and is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This engine, in different stages of tune, is available in a range of Nissan products, including the Z sports car. Car and Driver notes, however, that the Quests large size causes a performance lag. At 204 inches, it is the longest minivan sold in America, and is among the widest and tallest as well. The Quest seems to have earned the respect of some critics, but not as much as the Toyota Sienna in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.
Important Features
Minivans have to carry loads of children, their friends, groceries and hardware, and still provide an enjoyable driving experience. Here's what the experts say to look for:
Pay attention to how easily (and quickly) the interior space can be used and reconfigured. All the vans reviewed here are designed for seven to eight passengers. Second- and third-row bench seats that fold entirely into the floor are generally favored by reviewers.
Passengers (usually children) who'll be sitting in the rear seats should be part of your buying and testing process. All the vans reviewed have comfortable driver and front passenger seats, but there's some variation in rear-seat comfort.
All minivans have dual front air bags; some carmakers are beginning to offer other safety features. Options include side air bags and sensors to detect objects behind the vehicle when backing up.
Minivans should drive more like a car than a truck. One of the reasons minivans have become so popular is their car-like ride and handling. Obviously, a test drive is necessary to determine if a van's ride is acceptable to you.
Almost all minivans today are front-wheel drive, but reviewers say all-wheel-drive models have better winter traction. If you want all-wheel drive, models are available from Toyota and General Motors
The top two are the Toyota Sienna and the Honda Odyssey,although here is the info on the top few,according to Car and Driver and consumer eports. Happy Shopping!
Though sport utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to gain in popularity, the minivan market is still going strong with about a million sold per year. Car and Driver magazine says that minivans are better choices than SUVs for many families, with roomier interiors and better fuel economy. One model this year stands heads and shoulders over other models in reviews: The top-rated Toyota Sienna. No other minivan comes close to garnering more favorable reviews.
For the 2004 model year, Ford replaced its older Windstar with the similarly styled Freestar. This new vehicle does well in crash tests and has a large 4.2-liter 6-cylinder engine available, but Edmunds.com notes that it is underpowered, does not handle especially well, and has significantly less cargo capacity than either the Sienna or Odyssey. Ford subsidiary Mercury sells an almost identical vehicle called the Monterey, which replaces the Mercury Villager.
Kia introduced its value-priced Sedona minivan in 2002. Critics have praised the Sedona for its value pricing, starting at only $19,000. Even when fully loaded, prices climb to only about $25,000, less than a similarly equipped Sienna or Odyssey. The Sedona impresses with the best warranty in its class (5-year/60,000 basic and 10-year/100,000-miles for the powertrain). Even so, problems include poor fuel economyat 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, no minivan scores lowerand a lack of sophistication relative other minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna.
After fours years as reviewers favorite minivan, the Honda Odyssey has been unseated. The overwhelming critics choice for best minivan this year is Toyotas recently reinvented Sienna (*est. $24,000 to $39,000). Auto reviewers praise the Sienna for its considerate design, sturdy build and attention to detail. Like the Siennas top competitors, the third-row seats disappear into the floor. But in the Sienna, these disappearing seats are also split-folding to increase cargo/passenger versatility, and they can be folded into the floor without first removing their headrests. Experts say the folding mechanism itself is spring-assisted to make it easier to operate. Thoughtful details and practical niceties like this help propel Sienna to the top of reviewers lists, and to ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.
>> Where to buy
Reviewers say the Sienna is also one of the roomiest minivans. It has roughly the same exterior dimensions as the Dodge Grand Caravan, but has a more commodious interior. Despite its large size, the Sienna has a best-in-class 36.8-foot turning circle, which aids in parking and urban driving. Fuel economy is also best-in-class at 19 miles-per-gallon city/27mpg highway (only the massive Dodge Sprinter edges out the Sienna in fuel economy, but is far slower and only uses diesel fuel, say reviewers).
Critics note that the Sienna rides exceptionally smoothly and delivers performance on par with the best in this class. It can accelerate to 60 in less than 9 seconds and corners about as well as a family sedan. Toyota offers all-wheel drive models for those who deal with snowy or slick conditions; the all-wheel drive variant is slightly slower and less fuel efficient, but has better traction.
The Honda Odyssey (*est. $24,000 to $31,000, depending on options) also remains a solid contender in reviews. While the Odyssey lacks a few features found on the Toyota and gets less miles-per-gallon, it still offers a smooth ride, very good handling and the high resale value that stems from a reputation for reliability. Motor Trend notes that the Odyssey is relatively inexpensive and serves as a value leader in the minivan segment.
Though not quite equal to the Sienna or Odyssey, DaimlerChrysler vans, which include the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodges Caravan and Grand Caravan, have a reasonably high reliability and safety record. Critics say they also have good looks, excellent ride and handling, good visibility, strong brakes and a kid-proof interior. These models received substantial revisions recently, including second and third-row seats that fold flat into the floor. DaimlerChrysler has also lowered the base prices of these models. Prices range from $19,000 to $38,000, depending on options. With the same powertrains as older models (minus the all-wheel drive option thats been dropped due to poor sales) the new models are expected to fair well.
The Mazda MPV comes in only one sizesmall. At 187.8 inches long, reviewers say its less roomy but more maneuverable and better handling than most of its peers. Like the Sienna, it also boasts powered roll-down windows in its side sliding doors (most competitors have fixed side windows). For the 2002 model year, Mazda replaced a much-criticized 2.5-liter 170 horsepower engine with a 3-liter, 200-horsepower unit. Initial acceleration tests by reviewers dont indicate that the revised MPV is a rocket, but its no longer a sluggard.
General Motors is gearing up to replace its line of minivans late this year. For now, GM continues to offer the Pontiac Montana, Chevrolet Venture and the Silhouette from moribund Oldsmobile. Reviewers are not thrilled with these existing vehicles, criticizing their visibility, rear seats, and overall feel and build quality. Car and Drivers initial reports on the new vehicles seem under-whelming. The new vehicles will include Chevrolets Uplander and Pontiacs Montana SV6; as well as two brands that have never before offered minivansSaturn and Buick. Saturns offering is called the Relay and Buicks will be called the Terraza.
These new GM vans are narrower than some competitors, which may increase maneuverability at the price of interior room. Car and Driver notes these models do not have seats that fold into the floor, like some competitors. Nor do the new vans offer a power-liftgate option, curtain-airbags, or other side-impact protection for second- and third-row seats. The new vans will all be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine putting out 200 horsepower. All-wheel drive will be available.
Nissan recently released a new version of its long-running Quest minivan. The new van features very dramatic styling meant to appeal to those SUV buyers and others who may have found minivans too staid. Some experts have criticized the styling, especially on the interior, where they indicate functionality has been hindered. The Quest is built on a heavily modified Altima platform, and is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This engine, in different stages of tune, is available in a range of Nissan products, including the Z sports car. Car and Driver notes, however, that the Quests large size causes a performance lag. At 204 inches, it is the longest minivan sold in America, and is among the widest and tallest as well. The Quest seems to have earned the respect of some critics, but not as much as the Toyota Sienna in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.
Important Features
Minivans have to carry loads of children, their friends, groceries and hardware, and still provide an enjoyable driving experience. Here's what the experts say to look for:
Pay attention to how easily (and quickly) the interior space can be used and reconfigured. All the vans reviewed here are designed for seven to eight passengers. Second- and third-row bench seats that fold entirely into the floor are generally favored by reviewers.
Passengers (usually children) who'll be sitting in the rear seats should be part of your buying and testing process. All the vans reviewed have comfortable driver and front passenger seats, but there's some variation in rear-seat comfort.
All minivans have dual front air bags; some carmakers are beginning to offer other safety features. Options include side air bags and sensors to detect objects behind the vehicle when backing up.
Minivans should drive more like a car than a truck. One of the reasons minivans have become so popular is their car-like ride and handling. Obviously, a test drive is necessary to determine if a van's ride is acceptable to you.
Almost all minivans today are front-wheel drive, but reviewers say all-wheel-drive models have better winter traction. If you want all-wheel drive, models are available from Toyota and General Motors
When we were looking, it came down to a new Honda or a lease return Grand Caravan. We thought the Toyota Sienna was too small -- it's size may have increased by now since it's been a couple years. We were going to go new with the Odyssey b/c they depreciate so slowly that you didn't save much buying used. We were going to go used with the Grand Caravan b/c one that was two or three years old was half the price of a new one. We literally couldn't find an Odyssey to test drive and a Caravan with all the bells and whistles came along while we were waiting -- 31,000 miles and just over half the cost of a new one. We went with the Grand Caravan and are mostly happy with it.
If you were to decide to get a lightly used one, remember the extended warranty is not a fixed cost -- its price can be negotiated!
If you were to decide to get a lightly used one, remember the extended warranty is not a fixed cost -- its price can be negotiated!
I drive a 98 toyota sienna LE van. I have 140,000 miles on it. It got a new tranny last year compliments of toyota and have been very good about routine maintenance although I go to a foreign car specialist in my area rather than the dealer. Great service, great prices. Other than the normal things wearing just because it has hauled 4 kids around for the past 5 1/2 years, it has been a great car. I'm gonna just keep it till it falls apart. I'm going for 200,000 now and it looks like it'll be no sweat.
It handles like a dream, is very comfortable to drive long distances, has a 6 cylinder engine that really kicks butt on the highway and still gets 21 MPG fully loaded with the whole family and all our luggage when we make the trek to WDW 308 miles from my driveway!
I used to go through a set of tires every year until I finally put the Bridgestone Torenza LST's on it. They were much better suited to the type of driving conditions we have here in the south. The tire store I went to kept selling me these crummy other tires and told me that it was the way I was driving that was wearing them out so fast. Consequently they would sell me a new set after 14 mos. or so at a prorated price.
Finally I got smart and did a little internet research. I live in a hot climate. The tires I USED to have were rated very poorly for hot roads. They were literally MELTING off the car. It had nothing to do with me or how I drove.
The torenza LST's are rated better for a hot road surface and even though they are all season radials, they are specifically engineered for driving in the rain. These tires are now one year old and are showing absolutely NO wear whatsoever. They still look and perform like they are brand new. My gas mileage went down 1-2 MPG after we put them on but I'll gladly exchange that for a better grip on the road when it rains, which is often here, in the winter or when the road is hot, which is usually!
It handles like a dream, is very comfortable to drive long distances, has a 6 cylinder engine that really kicks butt on the highway and still gets 21 MPG fully loaded with the whole family and all our luggage when we make the trek to WDW 308 miles from my driveway!
I used to go through a set of tires every year until I finally put the Bridgestone Torenza LST's on it. They were much better suited to the type of driving conditions we have here in the south. The tire store I went to kept selling me these crummy other tires and told me that it was the way I was driving that was wearing them out so fast. Consequently they would sell me a new set after 14 mos. or so at a prorated price.
Finally I got smart and did a little internet research. I live in a hot climate. The tires I USED to have were rated very poorly for hot roads. They were literally MELTING off the car. It had nothing to do with me or how I drove.
The torenza LST's are rated better for a hot road surface and even though they are all season radials, they are specifically engineered for driving in the rain. These tires are now one year old and are showing absolutely NO wear whatsoever. They still look and perform like they are brand new. My gas mileage went down 1-2 MPG after we put them on but I'll gladly exchange that for a better grip on the road when it rains, which is often here, in the winter or when the road is hot, which is usually!
I had my Honda Odyssey for the past 5 yrs. and the only major work we had done on it was oil changes...it had 111, 000 miles on it....my DH just went out and got me a new one last night!
What a sweetie!
Anyway I love it! and can you believe it we paid less for this one that is fully loaded than we did for our first one.
I know the initial out lay of cash is usually the deciding factor but in terms of work having to be done...in the long run our 99 Od....was a great deal!
Good luck!
Holycow
What a sweetie!
Anyway I love it! and can you believe it we paid less for this one that is fully loaded than we did for our first one.
I know the initial out lay of cash is usually the deciding factor but in terms of work having to be done...in the long run our 99 Od....was a great deal!
Good luck!
Holycow
I am on my second Odyssey and I love them. We usually don't buy new or often, but these hold their value so well that we traded up from the base model after a couple of years to get the power doors. The new Siennas look nice too.
IMGONNABE40!
<font color=green>Okay, I already am 40, but if I
- Joined
- Jul 1, 2003
- Messages
- 9,167
Another Odyssey lover here. Bought my 2000 used in 2001. It came with the navigation system. Not an option I would have chosen, but it was a used car. I love the Odyssey and the navigation. I am anxiously awaiting the newly renovated '05 to see what changes have been made and to see if it is time to trade in.
Go Honda!
Go Honda!
sgtdisney
DIS Veteran
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- Apr 28, 2001
- Messages
- 3,770
I can second that. Way too many transmission failures (and other issues) both on Chryslers I owned in the past and everyone I know who owned one as well. Maybe they have improved since Mercedes Benz bought them, but I won't risk it. We are on our 2nd Montana and love it.
I have a 2001 Honda Odyssey and love it. It has about 74K miles and still runs like the day I drove it off the lot. I'm really hoping to drive it for about 200K.
Prior to the Odyssey I had a Pontiac van and it was junk. So many things broke on that van it was unbelievable.
Stick with Honda or Toyota and you will do just fine.
Prior to the Odyssey I had a Pontiac van and it was junk. So many things broke on that van it was unbelievable.
Stick with Honda or Toyota and you will do just fine.
CJMickeyMouse
DIS Veteran
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- Mar 22, 2000
- Messages
- 3,229
Personally I would not buy a Honda anything.
We stick with Ford - we have had a few problems but they were fixed to our satisfaction in a hurry. (no cost). We have a 2003 Windstar right now (our third Ford van) and don't look to trade anytime soon.
We stick with Ford - we have had a few problems but they were fixed to our satisfaction in a hurry. (no cost). We have a 2003 Windstar right now (our third Ford van) and don't look to trade anytime soon.
disneyfan551
Focusing on the FIGHT and not the FRIGHT! 🟠🙏
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- 4,210
I had a Dodge Caravan for 4 years, 90,000+ miles and never had the first problem out of it. Recently I sold it to my Mom and bought the new Kia Sedona. With the 10yr/100,000 mile warranty, and the fact that it scored 5*'s on every safety test, we were sold. I shopped around, and finally got the top of the line, leather seats/cd/ABS brakes/sunroof. We were able to get them down to 18,7 even though their list price was 24,! The van has alot of little extras and drives like a dream. My dh is a state trooper and says that he has never heard anyone complain about their Kia Sedona when he stops them. Everyone has been very pleased with theirs.
Good luck van shopping!
Good luck van shopping!
soccerchick
Dis Veteran<br><font color=red>My husband has rice
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Since reliability and safety are your two criteria, Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey are at the top of the field. Consumer Reports ranks Sienna 1 and Odyssey 2, but both received excellents in their overall ratings, as well as in the two categories you named. The Nissan Quest and Mazda MPV ES both scored very good. We have a 2001 Odyssey and love it. We also have a Nissan, though not a minivan by them. Our Nissan Altima is 11+ years old and still chugging along as DH's commuter car. You might be able to deal a little on the price of an Odyssey since the Sienna is so popular right now.
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