Ok.. we're pretty convinced that we're gonna be getting a Toyota Sienna LE minivan. I'm thinking that there are some things for it that we could get cheaper and better online. Where is a good online store to go to for purchasing some of these items: One or two center consoles (the sienna can have a console between the middle seats, as well as the front seats), roof liner (so that anything we put on the roof doesn't scratch up the top), dvd system, tow mount, cargo nets, and miscellaneous other 3rd-party accessories. Where's a good site for buying stuff like that?
Considering that many people on this site are still in high school or in college or single or married with no kids, I think you are going to have a hard time finding people who have the experience that you are looking for. BTW - I listened to your conversation on the radio recently, droxford, and was very impressed. I just wished that one tool would have let you have a rebuttal instead of cutting you off like he did.
Thanks, Manny! It felt good to let out the steam, even if it was only to a couple of nit-wit radio guys. I kinda figured that most of the people here would be younger and might not be able to help. But, hey... this is the Hangout on the best bbs in Houston. It doesn't cost anything to ask, and maybe I'll find someone who can help out.
If you want a removable/portable system that you can use as a vacation "in hotel" dvd player, the one I got from *gulp* Wal-Mart for like $250 (with 2 screens, available 2 inputs, 3 headphones) is really not bad at all. It has 6.5" screens, and a remote. The TOYOTA is a good minivan, but oddly enough the one we bought, a Chevy Astro, is actually the best MPG according to the federal report... the problem is finding a dealer that has one. I would imagine the TOYOTA has better resale value anyway... and plenty styles to choose from. Have you tried anywhere like J.C. Whitney? I know they have a catalog in print, but haven't checked online... also for car electronics try Crutchfield. I used to sell car audio/video equipment, and they are very reasonable from all of my experiences comparing prices. Hope some of that helps. Since I mad this .gif for an Astro BBS, I've put 2 JL 15's in it too. Ahh, the family ride!
My suggestion is to go to a Toyota forum and ask. (I really liked the suggestion to get a Porsche GT instead of a Toyota Sienna... that one had me rolling for 5 minutes... lol)
Go to fred haas toyota world on i45/1960? They have awesome deals online, about 20-30% off retail on accessories etc for toyota parts.
Huh, this reminds me of a website I frequented during my last purchase of a Toyota car. Droxford, I am pretty sure you can find plenty of help on this site. Notice there are already discussion threads on: DVD/Entertainment system Toyota Sienna Owners: Accessories & Modifications
Chevy Astro has better MPG than Toyota Sienna according to a federal report? I'd love to see that report. I hope it was not sponsored by GM (Chevrolet). According to what I read from Edmonds.com: 2005 Chevrolet Astro (Drive Type) City/Highway MPG: - (RWD) 16 mpg / 21 mpg - (AWD) 14 mpg / 17 mpg 2005 Toyota Sienna (Drive Type) City/Highway MPG: - (FWD) 19 mpg / 26 mpg - (AWD) 18 mpg / 24 mpg These numbers are backed by fueleconomy.gov: 2005 Chevrolet Astro - 2WD (Passenger) - AWD (Passenger) 2005 Toyota Sienna - 2WD - 4WD
I don't know how important gas mileage is to you, Drox, since you already know what you want, and the Sienna is an excellent choice, but we got a Honda Odyssey EX-L with "an i-VTEC featuring Variable Cylinder Management (VCM, standard equipment on top trim levels). VCM increases fuel-efficiency by "shutting off" three of the engine's six cylinders during cruising and deceleration, and switches back to using all six cylinders when added power is needed. The VCM system, noted to increase fuel economy by as much as 12 percent over the regular VTEC V6, is virtually undetectable. As an added bonus, Honda Odyssey models with VCM are extra quiet because they're equipped with Active Noise Control (ANC) technology that works with the audio system to effectively cancel inherent noise produced by the VCM system (along with some road noise)." (Edmonds) http://www.edmunds.com/new/2006/honda/odyssey/100625410/researchlanding.html) We average about 24 mpg, and can seat 8, although we normally have it set up for seven. Really love it. You can't go wrong with the Seinna, but if you haven't checked this out as well, you might want to. Good luck!
Thanks! That sounds pretty sweet! We considered the Odyssey, but there were some factors up front that kinda steered us away: 1) price is higher. 2) It's actually dropped quite a bit in its reliability ratings 3) Every person we know who's had an Odyssey has had electrical problems, and/or problems with the auto-opening power doors. 4) no ability to choose options
