When I drove it I felt as if I was driving a cross-over, lots of room and power…

The Toyota Sienna has evolved and adapted to a changing market continuously since its introduction in 1998.

Looks

The Sienna van has a very familiar front end. Look no further than the Toyota Venza where it not only shares the same face but also the same platform. In fact, this platform is used in the Highlander, RAV4, and Camry.

This new look is attracting buyers that in the past would not see themselves driving a minivan. When I drove it, I felt as if I was driving a crossover, lots of room and power. I like the LED taillights, very bright and easy to see. The optional power sliding doors have retractable windows and are larger making it easier for getting in and out. They are controlled by a push of a button on the key fob.

In The Cab

There is plenty of leg room for the driver and front passenger. Unlike previous Sienna vans where the driver’s seat would only go back so far and taller people ended up with their knees up around the steering wheel. This version has full adjustability with a longer and wider seat cushion that can make drivers of any size comfortable. The second row has captain’s chairs that have a one touch walk-in feature and the third row is a 60/40 split one-touch split and stow mechanism that folds seats flat for storage. The XLE Limited comes with a multi-panel moon roof that features two independently controlled sunroofs. The front is a tilt and slide, while the rear just slides.

Safety First

There are seven standard airbags, including dual stage front and seat mounted side airbags for driver and front passenger, plus a new driver side knee airbag. Side curtain airbags covers the entire length of the van.

Power

Power is provided by a 3.5 Litre V6, aluminum block, with 266 horsepower and 245 lb ft of torque. The transmission is a six-speed automatic with lock up torque convertor and a transmission cooler. All-wheel drive models include Bridgestone run flat tires.

Pump Frequency:

V6 FWD 11.5/8.1L (city/highway)

V6 AWD 12.8/9.0L (city/highway)

Warranty Support:

Basic 60,000 km/ 36 months

Powertrain 100,000 km/ 60 months

Corrosion Perforation Unlimited km

Roadworthy

I had the opportunity to drive this vehicle out to Abbotsford a few times and I was impressed with the handling. Most minivans tend to have a lot of body motion and this one did not. Power was there to pass and with the driver seat further back it felt more relaxing. The area behind the third row has a large space for the seats to fold into and when the seats are up, it provides tons of space for storage.

Verdict

I like the improved styling in this vehicle and the roomy interior. Although there is enough power to move this vehicle along very well, I did notice the transmission constantly shifting down looking for more power when fully loaded with 7 passengers.

Sticker Price:

Sienna fwd – $29,120

Sienna LE FWD 8 Pass – $33,365

Sienna  SE FWD 8 Pass – $37,205

Sienna XLE 7 Pass FWD – $39,740

Sienna XLE AWD 7 pass – $36,190

Contact: ian [dot] harwood [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca