Review
Introduction
Minivans may lack the perceived cool quotient of SUVs, but they’re still hard to beat in terms of space efficiency, drivability, and all-around family hauling—provided that hauling doesn’t involve heavy towing. The Sienna rates as one of the best players in a diminishing field (Ford and General Motors have given up on this vehicle type). Although it’s not the Car and Driver favorite—the multiple 5Best award-winning Honda Odyssey gets our nod—the Sienna has its strong suits: a smooth, quiet, and powerful 3.5-liter V-6 (266 horsepower) allied with a five-speed automatic transmission; creamy ride quality; seating for seven or eight; a contemporary array of passive safety features; the option of all-wheel drive; and Toyota’s excellent reputation for reliability. The Sienna doesn’t get great marks for its responses in emergency maneuvers, braking distances are excessive, second- and third-row seats resist easy folding, and the styling is a snoozefest. But if quiet operation, smooth ride, plenty of power, and a broad array of features are important, the Sienna delivers.
Verdict
The Sienna may be the most vanilla vehicle in a Toyota lineup that no one would call exhilarating, but it’s also one of the most useful and versatile vehicles around.
Click here to read our full review of the Toyota Sienna.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Toyota Sienna.
Click here to read our long-term test of the Toyota Sienna.
What’s New for 2008
Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models (previous model years employed a front disc/rear drum setup on base editions). Similarly, Toyota’s stability control system, which includes traction control, is now standard on all models.
