2009 Toyota Sienna

Not a Mini-van, nor a full-size van either, Toyota slots their Sienna into the segment of 'Family Van.'

Available in a seven, or eight-passenger configuration, depending on seating options, it can be had in four different trim levels: CE, LE, XLE, and the top-of-the-line Limited. All four come standard with front-wheel drive; LE, XLE and Limited also offer an all-wheel-drive option.

In designing the Sienna's interior, Toyota has tried to optimize space utilization wherever possible. By placing the gated transmission shifter on the dashboard, it has opened up a step-through path to the rear. Middle row seating can be had as either a versatile captain's chair arrangement, or a bench. CE and LE versions offer a Front and Center® middle seat that moves the chair forward for easier access to infant and toddler seating. All Sienna models ride on a 119.3-inch wheelbase, which allows for a third row fold-flat bench seat that folds into the floor for 'flat-floor' access. Not that anyone hauls plywood in their family vans, but with the third seat stowed, and middle seats removed, four by eight sheets of plywood can be loaded flat onto the floor.

The Limited model is standard with leather-trimmed upholstery, a 10- speaker stereo system, and heated front seats. An available DVD-based navigation system is an option in XLE and Limited models, and includes a backup camera that is enabled when the Sienna is placed in Reverse.

Power for the Sienna comes from Toyota's ubiquitous 3.5-liter, 266- horsepower V6, which produces 245 lb-ft of torque. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) provides optimal performance and efficiency throughout the power band. Energy is transmitted to the wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy checks in with EPA ratings of 17 City / 23 Highway.

Safety cues on the Sienna include front-seat mounted side airbags and curtains that extend for all three rows. The second row is equipped with the LATCH system for child seats, As in most Toyotas, expect to find the usual alphabet soup array of safety features: Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The base Sienna CE comes equipped with all-season P215/65 R16 tires on 16-inch steel wheels. Also standard is a Tow Prep package, capable to 3,500-pounds of towing capacity. The XLE features such niceties as dual power sliding doors and power rear door, three-zone automatic climate control and wood grain style interior trim. In addition to these, the Limited features larger P225/60 R17 tires on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

Although not the newest design on the block, the Sienna offers Toyota build quality in a vehicle built to haul the family and all its accoutrements, too!