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Whatever you do, stay away from the Chrysler minivans. The transmissions are designed to fail at about 75,000 miles, just after warranty expiration. And they certainly live up to that design! We were a Chrysler family for many years, but that ended with our 1993 Plymouth Voyager. A piece of #@$%!!
Well , then there is what "we've" experienced over here with an 06 toyota sienna ( new trans(reman)
These are somewhat significant because from the 1950s forward in roughly 120-150???( Many shorter term ) vehicles we have previously replaced three other ATs - all between 125-150K - all with some "history of abuse" behind the failure .
Our best "long term" do considerably better than that ie no failure thru 250-450K .
The very best are/were two old MOPAR A727s and one somewhat unusual HD A904/9?? as well as either behind numerous slant sixes .
The sienna has other issues as well - probably most annoying would be the 4/5 rattles that just are not going to go away w/o the dash and some other pieces coming out that "we" are unwilling to do ( The dealer is trying ) . The door "thingie" only took three tries . The tire "thingie" was resolved rather peacefully w/o benefit of the class action settlement .
At Xmas the toyota member in the familly rented a somewhat equiped 06 Chrysler TOWN/COUNTRY .
Still rated the sienna interior superior in " interior feel/appearance/quality" - but couldn't believe how much better the fuel economy was - to the point of not believing the gauge and "independently" measuring it on gas receipts/odometer/known distance which all checked out . The TC had a rental twin in a Dodge Caravan - both were tight and trouble free and very pleasant to drive . The lack of rattles was noticeable to some . I should add here in the interest of fairness , the old Land Cruiser and a very old Accord are still held in high regard . Its just for these tribes things are a bit different now - maybe shaken but not yet stirred?
If you look around , this is a somewhat "troubled" segment (MV) with some "sources" unwilling to make a full recommendation on what is without a doubt the most "practical" segment in the industry for many , many people (including retired) and families .( Vehicles in general are increasingly complex - Minivans are no exception - in some ways the "worst" . They also are some of the most "abused" vehicles on the market)
None are perfect in any sense - but then these days what really is ?
I should mention there is also an old 95 ODYSSEY thats everybodies favorite come summer(perfect "cottage" runner) and some memories the same way concerning an older TC as well .
"Our experience" with the 06s has us waiting thru until 08 - on a desire to replace at least another 4/5 if not more - including at least the possibility of 2/3 Minivans . I say possibility because I do think some of the new crossovers will be on many peoples lists - particularly GM/Fords newest - or at least based on what people saw at the Chicago Auto Show . I believe there will be more .
I wouldn't be afraid in the least on KIA/HYUNDAI and CHRYSLER/DODGE if you want an 07 Minivan .
Realistically , look at them all - and buy the one you like that has a
good dealer behind it .
Go long and you will probably use that dealer at some point regardless of your choice .
I think there is truly a kind of parity in this segment with each offering a different bundle of pluses and minuses . Maybe price and discount can break a tie . In competitive markets they all are dealing - and that will continue for at least awhile .
), so we're looking for recommendations. Of course, the Toyota and Honda seem to be highly rated. The Kia & Hyundai also get high marks. How about the domestics? My primary reason for getting the mini-van is access to the 3rd seat. I'm looking for space, safety, reliability, & fuel mileage. Any suggestions are appreciated.
