Blending Toyota's quality reputation, a family-sized spacious interior, and the most powerful engine in a minivan, the popular Toyota Sienna returns unchanged for 2009. It earns high marks for a safe and comfortable ride and utilitarian seating flexibility, both important requirements when seeking a family van. It also boasts a long list of standard features often found only in pricier vehicles.

The 2009 Sienna comes in CE, LE, XLE, and Limited trims. All are available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, except for the CE, which comes only as a two-wheel drive. The AWD system lacks low-range gearing and off-road capability, but does provide extra traction in slippery conditions. It comes packaged with larger 17-inch wheels with run-flat tires. One engine powers all trims – a muscular 24-valve, 3.5-liter DOHC V6, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Together they deliver 266 hp and 245 lb-ft of torque. Variable valve timing improves fuel efficiency, which clocks in at 19/25 mpg.

Nothing if not family-friendly, the 2009 Sienna comes with ten cupholders and plenty of storage compartments. Three rows of seats include reclining first and second row captain's chairs and a third row bench, for up to seven passengers. An optional second row bench expands capacity to eight. Both second and third rows fold, with the 60/40 third row folding into the floor. The second row captain's chairs can be removed, and a power folding option for the back seat is available. Cargo capacity starts at 43.6 cubic feet and expands to a cavernous 149. Plenty of legroom abounds to make long trips more comfortable, with 43 inches up front and nearly 40 in the second row. All trims feature dual sliding doors for easy entry, with power doors and a power liftgate standard on the XLE and Limited.

Equipped with the STAR Safety System (traction and stability control, ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution) and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for each row, the 2009 Sienna earns four and five stars in NHTSA crash tests, continuing its tradition of safety and solidity. Parking sensors are optional on all trims, but standard on the high-end Limited. Standard features on the CE include tilt and telescopic steering, power locks, a CD/MP3 player and 6-way and 4-way power front seats. The LE adds a roof rack, power windows and mirrors, and wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls. The XLE makes the power driver's seat 8-way and includes a trip computer, and wood and leather trim. The standard Limited sunroof, memory settings, and leather upholstery are optional for all other trims.

The 2009 Sienna remains a solid choice for families needing versatility, comfort, and security. Owners appreciate the spacious cabin and cargo capacity, along with the AWD option. The V6 power proves just right for confident highway and city driving, with surprisingly good fuel economy. Most negative reviews disparage the pricey bundled options not offered as stand-alones, such as a DVD player, navigation system, and rearview camera. The lack of standard automatic headlights on some trims also disappoints.