Hi Scotty,
I have own Toyota minivans for the past 16 years. All have been front wheel drive. My current one is a 2006 LE. We are finally at the point where we are considering buying a new one (a first for us). We love the hybrid configuration. But, should we spend the extra $2000 (plus additional markup) that the AWD models go for? They are also harder to get (longer wait periods). Never having driven an AWD (there isn't one to drive in any dealership around here) I honestly don't know if it's worth it. We love in Illinois and get our fair amount of bad weather, which is why we always liked (in platonic terms) the idea of an AWD Sienna. What's your take? Also, does the AWD reduce gas mileage?
Thanks!
If you haven't had the AWD and you were fine with it, so most likely you don't need it. I would just get a FWD to save money both for purchase and in the long run.
Cheaper than AWD, and more effective in snow (you can steer and stop better, too) is to get a set of winter tires - not only the tread is different, the rubber has a low-temp friendly mixture. Get a set with steel rims, and you'll probably get quite a few years from them. Plus, with the AWD you lose your spare tire.
