For 2015, Toyota offers only a single engine in the Sienna: a 266-horsepower 3.5L V6. The engine comes linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission and is estimated to deliver 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg highway.
While the Sienna's suspension is tuned toward comfort, the SE trim gets revised springs/dampeners for better handling that aims to be more like that of a car. The standard 19-inch wheels on the SE trim are a nice complement to that model's privacy glass, roof rails and smoked chrome exterior pieces.
The Sienna is the only vehicle in its class to offer optional all-wheel drive. Toyota's system utilizes a center differential to split power 50/50 between the front and rear wheels under normal driving situations, but transfers more to the wheels that have traction during slippery conditions. Two-wheel drive Siennas are configured as front-wheel drive.
Safety is an important factor in designing any minivan, and the Sienna comes with a long list of such features. Electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with brake assist are standard, as are front seat-mounted side airbags and side-curtain bags for all three rows. Driver knee airbags are also included. All-wheel drive models are also fitted with run-flat tires that allow the Sienna to go up to 100 miles at 55 mph once the tire loses air. Blind spot monitoring is optional on the XLE.
Interior accommodations in the Sienna include three rows of seating and a capacity of either seven or eight passengers. The 8-passenger configuration--offered on SE, LE and XLE trims--includes a second-row bench seat that can slide fore and aft. The 7-passenger models substitute two captain's chairs for the bench. Second and third-row seats are removable to expand cargo space.
L, LE, XLE and Limited trims for the Sienna span a wide range of equipment, depending on whether the buyer wants simple and basic or luxurious. The base L does include most popular equipment such as keyless entry, power windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control, 3-zone air conditioning and a 4-speaker CD sound system. At the top of the range, the Limited adds a JBL premium stereo, 18-inch alloy wheels, Smart Key remote keyless system, a power moonroof, heated seats, automatic climate control system, woodgrain interior trim, a parking-assist system and a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface.
Options at the top of the line include a unique dual-view entertainment system that allows rear seat passengers to watch two different programs on one display, navigation satellite radio, HID headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and adaptive cruise control.
Available All-wheel Drive
V6 Power
Fuel Economy
Spacious, Comfortable Interior
True Car-like Handling
Up To 8-passenger Seating
The Toyota Sienna gets several new features for 2015, along with new exterior styling. New headlights, taillights and a new grill improve the look of the van, while several grades get new daytime driving lights to aid visibility. New features include a driver easy speak button, which amplifies the drivers' voice for back seat passengers, as well as an uprated Entune stereo and an improved rear seat entertainment system. Safety has also been improved with better side curtain airbags and additional child seat anchors.
The minivan segment is a fiercely contested market in which features, pricing and capacities remain extremely competitive. The current Sienna continues be leader with its strong V6, 6-speed automatic transmission and mileage estimates of 25 mpg on the highway. The Sienna distinguishes itself as being the only minivan to offer all-wheel drive as an option as well as seating configurations for up to 8 passengers. Even the entry-level L trim includes such comfort options such as keyless entry, 3-zone air conditioning and 10 cup holders.
