Auto Geeze

A van is a vehicle that lives up to your expectations for both personal and business use. Even though it has a reputation of being a “fairly boring” 4-wheeler by appearance, it is still worth considering it to be your next family car. Moreover, it seamlessly transforms itself to a business vehicle, if you need one.

A van, owing to its various uses has been given different names-people mover, people carrier, minivan, multi-use vehicle and more; depending on the place where the automobile is manufactured, or driven. A van is usually bigger than a hatchback or a station wagon. Vans are designed to have more interior space to hold a number of passengers comfortably; they are often used to transport luggage and goods as well.

Let us talk a little about the three most popular minivans around. There are many models in the minivan segment market. The majority of minivans are sold by reputed auto brands such as Toyota, Honda and Nissan. While Dodge and Chrysler dominated the market in the 1980s, Toyota and Honda have emerged as leading brands now.

Toyota Sienna Van

This minivan has found an esteemed place as a leader in the class. With its 8-passenger seating, a 3.5L V6 engine that pumps 266 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque, it is undoubtedly a dream vehicle for anyone with an eye for a minivan! The base price starts at the mid-20s, making it the first choice for those who can afford it. Ideal for a growing family, soccer moms and dads love the vehicle.

Honda Odyssey Van

The Honda Odyssey is another minivan with a 3.5L V6 engine that gives 248 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. It is considered to be among the best minivans in the market for its rough and tough exteriors as well as plush interiors. Fold-down seats makes the Odyssey quite spacious at 148.5 cubic feet. It comes at a higher price tag as compared to the Toyota Sienna Van, at above $28k.

Chrysler Town & Country

Great for those who want top-end features in their mini-van, this one comes with alloy wheels, Stow ‘n Go rear seats, a rear-seat entertainment system for the kiddos and a power tailgate. It has a 3.6L V6 engine with 283 horsepower.

It is true that a new vehicle has an aura of its own. However, with so many economic adversities around, not many can rake up the cash for that new sparkle of a new car or van. This does not mean that buying a new vehicle is impossible; but for those on a limited budget, buying a used van can be a wise decision. In fact, one can save a lot by participating in online auto auctions, sometimes as much as 60-80% of a vehicle’s market price. For example, one can even find a Honda Odyssey Van on auction at a very low price.

Just in case you are looking for any of the minivans mentioned above, search online for salvage car auctions. Even if the vehicle restoration costs are included, one can still save thousands of dollars by buying a salvage Toyota Sienna Van. Such auctions sell damaged, repossessed, theft recovered vehicles at very low prices. Yes, they may have massive damage, but with some good online research one can find fair deals.