1998 Toyota Sienna

Versatility is the name of the minivan game, and our staff has played hard with the Sienna. The well-equipped Toyota has naturally become a choice weekend vehicle for family folk, with the room to handle a hyperactive brood and their gear, which a sedan or wagon simply can't match. Possessing a tighter interior than several minivan competitors, the Sienna works best with "younger" families without varsity basketball players. Drivetrain and performance dynamics receive regular praise for being Camry-smooth and quite capable. Logbook entries from devout "car guys" comment on how the Sienna is even relatively fun to drive despite its conservative people-moving intentions. Winner of the simple-but-much-loved-feature award goes to the little cargo nets beside the front buckets that make perfect catch-alls for items like eyeglass cases and wallets. However, the sliding doors require a hearty slam to keep the "door ajar" warning light from blinking on. The 15,000-mile servicing totaled a $145.47 for a full round of filter and fluid replacement, inspections, adjustments, and tire rotation. While at the dealership, a broken spare tire mount was repaired under warranty.

Base price: $27,100
Price as tested: $30,090
Body style: 4-door, 7-pass.
Engine size/type: 3.0-liter V-6
Transmission: 4-speed auto.
Driveline configuration: Front engine, front drive
0-60 mph, sec.: 9.4
EPA mpg, city/hwy.: 18/24
Total mileage: 17,497
Test mileage: 17,342
Fuel consumed, gal : 871.46
Fuel cost: $1002.18
Average mpg: 19.9
Additional oil/cost: None
Routine maint.: $145.47
Additional maint.: Warranty
Previous maint.: $49.95
Problem areas: Spare tire mount
Total operating cost: $1197.63
Operating cost/mile: 6.9c