Need advice: Sienna XLE - 8 passenger

[UlrikeDG]

I know this van isn't available in the US, but it's the only way to get the 8 passenger version here in Germany. The model we looked at today was NICE. It had: Three-row side curtain airbags
ABS
LATCH in 5 positions/5 tether anchors
Audible Parking Assist
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC)


It did not have AWD, and I can't get a model with AWD here. Of course, it also had quite a few bells and whistles (DVD, 6-CD changer, etc), but I'm most concerned about safety. We'll be bringing this van back to Iowa, if we get it. Is there anything else that I should be considering? Would you go for this model?

It's $33,750 with no sales tax at all. Does that sound like a decent price?

[CPSDarren]

The Sienna is my top pick for a minivan right now, in that the new Odyssey does not have complete crash test information. If they released a hybrid this version soon, I'd probably buy one. Unless something like the Highlander hybrid catches my eye, I'll probably wait for the Sienna.

Since you have the 3-row side curtain airbags and VSC, I'd say it's a winner as long as you like the seating flexibility. If we purchased a Sienna, I probably wouldn't bother with AWD either. We have AWD on our Outback. It's nice, but not necessary. I've never had an issue with our Odyssey or any previous front wheel drive car.

[mamamia]

That price does sound good. Mine is a 2004 7 passenger LE with VSC and TRAC, ABS, three rows of side curtain airbags. No DVD player, only a single CD player and only 1 power door. The sticker price on it in April 2003 was around $28,000. In New England the DVD alone adds $2500.

We opted against AWD mainly because they were so new, and the packages available at the time just didn't make it possible.The AWD was packaged with a DVD player and leather interior and other things we didn't want to pay extra for. I have driven the van many times in snowy/icy conditions, and it handles great.