Road Test: 1998 Toyota Sienna

Accruing miles faster than U.S. war planes in Iraq's "no fly" zones, the Toyota Sienna has proven its versatility by luring even anti-family editors to spend not just days, but weeks, behind the wheel. For these single guys, it's the allure of smooth power, soft around-town-oriented suspension, and multi-passenger comfort that make the Sienna a compelling sedan alternative. The cargo-hauling talents have been employed recently for "MT TV" equipment hauling, leaving the editors wishing the third row bench seat had fore/aft adjustments. The family guys have loaded the minivan and headed off on road-trip vacations, finding the interior a bit tight, necessitating some luggage be tied down to the roof rack. Unfortunately, the rear speakers are easily blocked by luggage. The low-mounted stereo has continually frustrated our drivers. Find a good radio station, shut the Sienna off, and the receiver resets to another station, as if the minivan makes its own selection. On the plus side, excellent 400-mile highway range per tank has challenged our bladder fortitude. Recently, the tire-pressure warning light has illuminated on several occasions despite the pressure being correct.