Actually everything about the Sienna is smooth, especially its ride. That news might fly in the face of the desert-racing image the commercials attempt to portray, but again its velvety suspension will be much more appreciated by the majority of Toyota buyers than one firm enough to perform optimal lateral Gs. But smooth doesn't mean it's a slug in the corners. The van's fully independent suspension, low-slung chassis and extreme track width, 100 mm (3.9 in) wider front and rear than the outgoing model, helps it to handle quite well. But is it as good as the class leading Honda Odyssey and Mazda MPV? Independent tests might prove its capabilities are greater than either competitor vans, but it doesn't feel as formidable through the esses at high speed. While my LE tester came equipped only with P215/65R16 tires, it is quite possible the optional P225/60R17s on the XLE 7 would improve matters.

The current Sienna was awarded the safest minivan tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and my guess is the 2004 van will at least improve matters. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

Its stopping power is impressive though, helped along by standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). My LE test model had Vehicle Stability Control and traction control, optional on XLE FWD as well as LE and XLE 4WD models. Front side-impact and optional curtain shield airbags on all three rows join standard dual front airbags too. The current Sienna was awarded the safest minivan tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and my guess is the current van will at least improve matters.

With the Sienna's giant-sized interior and savvy split-flat-folding rear row of seats, it's the most convenient van I've ever tested. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

The new Sienna's improved performance and ride quality is aided by a much longer wheelbase, increased by 130 mm (5.1 in) over the outgoing model, but the ultimate winner is interior accommodations. The added dimensions increase interior volume by more than 1,246 L (44 cu ft), with a class leading 1,235 L (43.6 cu ft) of cargo space behind the 3rd row seats. It really is giant-sized inside, with the added convenience of a 60/40 split-flat-folding rear row of seats. The rear bench is actually so slick I bet techno-dads will opt for the Sienna just to play with this feature alone. It flips, flops and folds flat into the floor with the flexible grace of a contortionist. The middle row folds almost flat too, or the seats can be removed. Added to the feeling of spaciousness are power actuated side door windows that now slide down for increased airflow, just like in the Mazda MPV and Kia Sedona. But of all the vans I've tested the Sienna is the most convenient, period.