Looking seriously at minivans means you've already decided cargo room and utility is more important than fuel efficiency, which is why it's especially important to get as much as you can out of each gallon. While the combined city and highway fuel rating is pretty even across most minivan models, there are a few standouts.
Fuel economy estimates are courtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA estimates are based on laboratory tests conducted by manufacturers according to federal regulations. EPA re-tests about 10% of vehicle models to confirm manufacturer's results. Your results may vary. Learn more at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/.
7. 2010 Kia Sedona
Like its namesake town, this offering from Kia is just a little on the funky side, but in a good way. The 2010 Kia Sedona (view photos) fairs just fine among a class of minivans where the degrees of quality and differences between models aren't too stark. Obviously, the big advantage is being the lowest-priced player in the field and the 10-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.
6. 2010 Toyota Sienna
Another strong Asian contender, the 2010 Toyota Sienna (view photos) is roomier and a little more plush on the inside than most of its competition. A new generation of the Sienna is expected for the 2011 model year, as Toyota looks to keep up with the Odyssey in the race to maintain a front-running slot in the class. Word is that modest fuel efficiency improvements of a few miles per gallon are also expected.
5. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
The Routan came out of a bizarre partnership between VW and Chrysler which basically took Chrysler models like the Grand Caravan and tried to dress them up with some VW parts, retuning and interior touches. The result is not universally loved, but does seem to improve upon the Chrysler vans that have undeniably lagged behind their imported competitors in recent years. A few of the 2010 Volkswagen Routan's (view photos) strong points are its high safety ratings and lower starting price than the Odyssey (the Routan MSRP starts at $25,900 vs. $26,805 for the Honda Odyssey).
