Toyota Sienna

This is arguably the best among imported minivans, and it's currently in the second year of its latest generation. It was redesigned last year, and this year's model has several convenience and comfort enhancements such as an adjustable front passenger seat and auto headlights.

Prices range from just over $25,000 for the 4-cylinder base model to $40,570 for the Limited version which has a V6. Just below that are the base model V6, the SE and the XLE. All but the base model and the LE come with a V6 engine, and all come with either seven- or eight-passenger seating. All-wheel drive is offered on the XLE and LE models, and there is also a basic cargo van for this year.

Toyota has the distinction of being the only car maker to offer a 4-cylinder minivan; it's the first offered in the Sienna line and the first in a Toyota minivan offering since the Sienna replaced the Previa in 1998. The engine is a 187hp, 2.7L that puts out 186 lb. ft. of torque. It's mated to a six-speed automatic, and the combination gets 19mpg city and 24 on the highway.

Be that as it may, the V6 provides better fuel mileage with highway driving. It puts out 266hp and 245 lb. ft. of torque, getting 18mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. Other than price, there are no compelling reasons to choose the 4-cylinder over the V6. Base and LE models come equipped with cruise control, adjustable driver's seat, power windows, AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input, keyless entry, triple-zone climate control, and power outlets.

The LE also gets a power tailgate and two power sliding doors, power driver's seat, a dimming rearview mirror, a backup camera, sunshades for the rear windows, and a stereo with an auxiliary input, a USB port, Bluetooth compatibility, and audio controls on the steering wheel. All of the above features are options on the four-cylinder model.