The 2011 Sienna lets you choose from five different trims namely the base, LE, XLE, Limited and the sporty new SE. Among the big changes, the base and LE models now come with a more fuel efficient (but less powerful) four-cylinder 1AR-FE engine (although the 3.5-liter 2GR-FE is still available as an option for whom power is important). Toyota expects EPA-estimated mileage figures of 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway for models powered by the 4-cylinder engine, 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway for 2WD V6 models, and 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway for All Wheel Drive (AWD) models - all very reasonable figures for a minivan. Additionally, the Sienna remains the ONLY minivan that offers the All Wheel Drive option. An Electric Power Steering (EPS) system also replaces the hydraulic system that was previously used.
Buyers looking for a safe choice in the minivan segment will undoubtedly find themselves considering the Toyota Sienna. Since its introduction in 1998, the Sienna has posted some of the best crash test scores of any minivan on the market. That fact alone makes it a good choice, new or used, for buyers who prize safety above all other attributes when shopping for a family vehicle.
Besides that, the Sienna has an excellent reputation for overall quality and long-term dependability, which make it a hassle-free vehicle to drive day in and day out, while contributing to peace of mind on long road trips. Add a refined and fuel-efficient V6 engine, a smooth ride and surprisingly upscale interior accommodations to the mix, and it's easy to see why the Toyota Sienna minivan is a strong seller.
Current Toyota Sienna
The fully redesigned Toyota Sienna minivan comes in five trim levels -- base, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. The LE and XLE come in seven- and eight-passenger configurations, while the base and Limited are seven-passenger only and the SE is eight-passenger only. All trims come with front-wheel drive while the LE, XLE and Limited can also be had with all-wheel drive. The base and LE models come with a 2.7-liter inline-4 that makes 187 horsepower; available on those two trims and standard on all others is a 265-hp 3.5-liter V6. Both engines are partnered with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The base Sienna includes alloy wheels, dual sliding rear doors, tri-zone air-conditioning and full power accessories. The LE adds niceties like a back-up camera, while the LE V6 tacks on power-sliding side doors and an upgraded audio system. The SE includes bigger wheels, sporty styling cues and unique upholstery and instrumentation. The XLE goes to town with a power liftgate, a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control and leather upholstery, and the XLE AWD includes second-row lounge seats with pop-up footrests. The Limited features dual sunroofs, the second-row lounge seats, a power-folding third-row seat and JBL audio. Adaptive cruise control, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a navigation system highlight the options list.
In reviews, we've been impressed with the current Sienna's versatile interior, even if the dashboard materials and design are a notch below the previous Sienna's upscale standard. Seven-passenger Siennas allow the second-row captain's chairs to be pushed together to create a bench seat. The eight-passenger version uses a second-row bench, while models fitted with the lounge seats offer La-Z-Boy comfort to those in the second row, provided their legs aren't particularly long. On the road, the V6's smooth and powerful acceleration impresses, and while the four makes just adequate power, it compensates with better fuel economy. The cabin is quiet at speed, and the ride is comfy. Overall, the Sienna belongs on any minivan shopper's short list.
