Minivan Shopping

HI,

Dh and I are in the process of looking at mini-vans. We are planning on purchasing a new one in the next 12-18 months. Most likely 18 months, since that is when our current van(1998 Windstar) will be paid off.

These are the vans we are going to look at:

Kia Sedona(test drove and almost bought, but decided to wait and save money and research first)

Honda Odyssey

Ford Freestar

Toyota Sienna

We REALLY liked the Sedona, BUT if we can afford to, I really want to get a van that has more of the SAFETY features I would love to have(ie: side curtain airbags, l/s belts in all positions...ect). I priced a Sienna online, and while it wouldn't be fully loaded, to get one we would be happy with would not cost that much more then a Sedona would. So, if you were me, had up to 18 months to decide on a new vehicle, are these the only vehicles you would consider? Would you take any off the list? Would you add any?

FWIW, we have 3 children who are CURRENTLY 8.5(in a booster...likely out in a yr to 18 mos), 6(in a harnessed seat, will be in a booster by then and for sometime) 3(will be in harnessed seat). We are not having anymore children, but I do watch my nephews(now 7). So, ideally I want a car with 7 lap/shoulder belts. (I guess that takes the Kia off my list...).

Thanks for getting through this and sorry I was so wordy! LOL

Angie

For safety, I currently like the Freestar/Monterey, Sienna and Quest. Also see our page at:

http://www.suvsafety.info

The Sedona is a nice value, but the center seat in the third row is not very functional at all.

In 18 months, the new 2005 Honda Odyssey may be a very good choice, too.

Darren made some good suggestions. Also, there's no telling what will be available in 18 months. If it were me, I'd keep my eye on the latest reviews and crash test results between now and then, rather than trying to decide sooner.

Thanks

I'm definately not deciding now, as I know things will change. But we want to test drive, watch for reviews and all of that jazz between now and then. That way when we DO buy we can make the most informed and best purchase possible.

Thanks!

Angie

Thanks Darren

We'll have to check the Quest out as well. I am excited to see the changes that may be made in the next year as well.

Thanks again,

Angie

We really like our new Quest. We got it about 1 month ago and I can say I have no complaints. It is classy looking and functional, it doesn't at all feel like a mini van or look like on IMO.

Shauna
CPS Tech