Reader Review of the Week: 2010 Toyota Sienna

“This van easily cruises at 80-85 mph through the Eastern states on I-95, keeping with the traffic flow, of course. Amazing that the torque was always right there for you and the buffeting from the big rigs was minimal.

“The headlights were the only drawback. Xenons should be standard or at least a better projector beam headlight. I recommend the cloth interior; it hides dirt well and is durable. The seats seem too firm at first but are very supportive and soft where they should be. Great cargo area, steering feel and brake feel. Even the steering felt very “connected.” I think for what a Sienna sells for, Bluetooth and an iPod plug should be standard. The radio is average; see if they can give you satellite radio for free.

“I thought the Sienna was a little futuristic-looking at first, but the low drag coefficient explains the profile. I will tease, belittle and criticize anyone purchasing a minivan who didn’t buy a Sienna. It’s built by Americans, much bigger than the VW/Chrysler minivan, reliable as you can get and safer than a box of bubble wrap. The AWD is great in the snow. The nose isn’t too low, so steep driveways, speed bumps and parking curbs don’t affect it, which is great for a multitasking parent not paying attention.

“We are leasing and plan to buy it out. The residual is strong, and we plan to keep it forever.”