The minivan craze has long-since passed its peak, but there remains a significant demand for these multi-tasking carry-all machines. With only a few models still in production, one of the longer-lasting brands is the Toyota Sienna, which debuted for the 1998 model year.
The fourth-generation Sienna that arrived for 2021 received a complete makeover, encompassing every aspect of the minivan. Behind the wide-mouth grille (apparently inspired by Japan’s extra-quick Bullet Train), the bodywork reveals an origami of creases and curves that stands in stark contrast to previous Siennas. The design, which remains unchanged for 2025, might not be to everyone’s liking, but there’s no denying that the minivan stands apart from its peers.
The body panels are attached to Toyota’s TNGA-K platform that Toyota uses to support several of its models, including the Camry sedan and the RAV4 and Highlander utility vehicles.
The interior appears more like a premium passenger car than a minivan. A unique “flying bridge” centre console rises to connect with the base of the dashboard and provides extra stowage space beneath the shift lever. The upright 8.0- or available 12.3-inch touchscreens positioned beside the digital gauge cluster is relatively easy to operate.
A traditional enclosed cubby is located between the front-seat armrests. There are also up to 18 cup and bottle holders dispersed throughout the cabin.
The Sienna’s eight-passenger capacity is reduced to seven with the available second-row high-back bucket seats (with optional fold-out ottomans) that can be adjusted fore and aft for increased stretch-out room or to maximize access to the third row.
Aside from the styling, the Sienna’s most dramatic aspect is the standard hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine plus two electric motors. The system delivers a net output of 245 horsepower.
Fuel consumption is rated at 6.8 l/100 km in combined city/highway driving. That compares with the Kia Carnival hybrid minivan’s 7.2 l/100 km and the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid’s 8.0-l/100 km. It also outperforms the non-hybrid Honda Odyssey’s 8.0 l/100 km.
The Sienna’s hybrid power system is linked to a continuously variable transmission that directs output to the front, or to all four wheels in all-wheel-drive models. That option adds an electric motor located at the rear wheels.
A standard mode selector that controls drivetrain performance can be set to Normal, Sport (for low-end torque), Eco, or EV. The latter provides a limited amount of electric-only driving at low speeds before the internal-combustion engine automatically engages.
The Sienna’s on-road performance is adequate for most situations, as is the 3,500-pound (1,590-kilogram) tow rating. Over rough road surfaces, however, the ride can be somewhat jarring.
Pricing for the base Sienna LE – one of four available trims – is $51,200, including destination fees. The equipment list includes tri-zone climate control, eight-way power-adjustable driver‘s seat, wireless phone charging and power-sliding side doors. A reasonably complete range of dynamic safety items are also included.
The LE plus other trims are fitted with 18-inch wheels, while the top-level Limited trim gets 20-inch two-tone versions.
The midgrade (and sportier) XSE trim comes with second-row captain’s chairs, easy folding/stowing third-row seat, unique front and rear bumpers plus firmer suspension settings.
Among the myriad equipment offered on up-level trims is four-zone air conditioning, premium 1,200-watt 12-speaker JBL-brand audio system with navigation, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a vacuum and a built-in refrigerator.
Parents of small children or those wishing to communicate with back-seat passengers will enjoy the available Driver Easy Speak, which is basically a public-address system that works through the rear speakers.
With comfortable accommodations and stowage capacity for the entire family, the Sienna presents itself as the minivan to beat among the short list of competitors. Factor in the hybrid system’s top-rated fuel efficiency and you would be hard-pressed to find a better all-around performer for helping with around-town tasks as well as long-distance outings.
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