2002 Kia Sedona

Hardly any debate surrounded this choice, with only the driver-oriented Honda Passport and newly repowered and substantially larger VW Eurovan considered as alternatives. Kia has a handle on value, and the Sedona is no exception.

Plenty of seat configurations and things like two gloveboxes, two map pockets in each door, and 10 cupholders mean if you can't find space in this 127-cu-ft box you shouldn't be bringing it.

The basic Sedona comes with cruise, tilt wheel, dual air-conditioning (with vents over the greenhouse windows where they do the most good), power windows and locks, electric windshield de-ice to free the wipers faster, torquey 3.5L V-6, five-speed automatic, and a five year/60,000-mile basic warranty. The fancier EX version adds alloy wheels, foglamps, CD system, and power front seats.

Add a few options, like a power moonroof, leather, and two-tone paint, and the Sedona just clears $23,000. A basic Toyota Sienna, infinitesimally larger and 15 hp stronger, costs almost a grand more without power windows, locks, or cruise, and doesn't even offer the options of leather, moonroof, or dual air. This is a no-brainer.