L.G.
I just got an 09 Toyota Sienna (minivan) this past Sept and I love it! It handled all the snow so much better than my car did! I have the 8 passanger, but they make a 7 passenger too. (we are a family of 4 but often go places with others and it's nice to be able to fit 4 extra people in!) I love all the extra room! the middle seats are captains chairs and independent of each - the middle one can be pulled forward for better access to a small child! the middle row can also be removed. the back row folds flat - TONS of cargo room - plus grocery bag hooks on the backs of seats, another unexpected joy - no bags dumping all over! It also has the automatic sliding door - very nice when you have full hands! I just wish I had it on both sides - my only regret for this vehicle, but I bought used, so you can't get everything you want, right? also, gets the same MPG my car did - mid 20s on average for me with mixed city/highway driving.
Good Luck - I hate car shopping!