Although the segment seems to be gaining some traction again, it's been a long time since minivans were the first choice for most families. There aren't many left, but the Sienna is one of the best—and your only choice if you need a minivan with all-wheel drive.
Blind Spot Monitor is now offered as a standalone option for the SE model.
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan that offers seating for seven or eight passengers. The 266-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine is standard across the lineup, earning an EPA rating of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway EPA fuel economy rating on front-wheel drive models. All-wheel drive models take a hit of 2 mpg in both city and highway settings.
You'll choose between five trim levels that range from the bare-bones L to the luxury Limited.
The base L is available only in front-wheel drive with seating for seven. Standard features include cruise control, daytime running lights, an auxiliary input jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry and three 12-volt outlets.
The LE adds three-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a four-way power front passenger seat, satellite radio, dual power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, and a USB port. All-wheel drive and seating for eight people are now optional. Opt for eight-passenger.
SE features LED taillights, chrome-accented outside door handles, a sport-tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels. The sport-oriented SE can be configured only with front-wheel drive and eight seats.
At the XLE level, all-wheel drive is again an option, as is seating for seven or eight. Luxurious amenities include leather seats, heated in front and a moonroof. Optional features include the 10-speaker JBL sound system and voice-activated DVD Navigation. Opt for eight-passenger.
Almost everything is standard on the top-of-the-line Limited. Options include DVD navigation and an entertainment system. The Limited seats only seven, but can be ordered with all-wheel drive.
All-wheel drive and a competitive list of features have made more the Sienna more competitive in the minivan market. Skip the extra weight and decreased mileage of all-wheel drive unless you really need it, though. An LE should suit the needs of most families, but those with a taste for sporty handling or luxurious appointments should also explore the SE and XLE.
