Do you think you want one?

Our family purchased a Sienna last year as our new primary vehicle. We were looking for a van to replace our full-sized Ford conversion. After looking around we decided that the best van in our price range would be a 2001 Sienna LE.
The Engine:
The engine is the same 3.0L V-6 found in many Toyota products, including the Camry, upon which the Sienna is based. This engine is the first 6 cylinder engine on a toyota van. The engine provides smooth and quick acceleration and good fuel economy, which is in the upper teens for city driving and low to mid 20's for highway crusing. Toyota engines can last up to 300,000 miles with scheduled services.
The Suspension:
The best thing about the test drive was how smooth the ride was. We experienced almost complete isolation from the road, besides the low howl of the tires. On might think that the suspension must be independent, but it isn't with respect to the rear.
Inside:
The inside is small for a minivan. The Sienna's major shortcoming is that it is shorter and narrower than just about every other minivan. The Sienna was supposed to be made and designed for Americans "Hence the vehicle is only sold in America as of right now." American's are big people, generally speaking. The Van should be able to carry a 4X8 sheet of plywood. It should also be able to fit 6 averaged sized adults in comfort. Only the 4 captains chairs are comfortable for long trips. The rear most seat, although it reclines, is uncomfortable for average sized people.
Sienna Vs. Previa:
The Previa was the van that was replaced by the Sienna in 1998. In my opinion the Sienna is a poor replacement for such a great van. The Previa offered all-trac, a 4WD for winter weather, the Sienna lacks this feature. The Previa is also bigger inside than the van that replaced it. The Previa was designed without the aid of pre-existing parts. The Sienna was cheaply spun off the last generation Camry sedan. Toyota has done this to add to its profit.
The Bottom Line:
The Honda Odyssey offers more power and room for a lower price and should be about as reliable, according to consumer reports. If you can wait until 2004 when Toyota will redesign the Sienna making it larger.2004 should be a good year to buy a minivan, because of redesigns from different manufactures including the Nissan Quest.
The Sienna is a fine choice (a much better one than a domestic van), and it has proven reliable according to consumer reports. Remember to test out the Honda Odyssey before buying the Sienna.