When
Toyota completely revamps one of its vehicles, it doesn't do it halfway. Accordingly,
the all-new Sienna is the new standard by which other vans will be measured, offering
not just newfound style, but innovative new features, strong performance and of
course, Toyota's trademark quality. Whereas
the outgoing Sienna was sort of on the small side next to standard-bearers like
the Honda Odyssey and the long-wheelbase Chrysler vans, the new Sienna is now
playing in their not-so-little league. Nearly every dimension has increased, yielding
more room for people and things. New interior features include dual glove boxes,
seating for up to eight and an available second-row bench with a center section
that slides forward to put parents closer to a child safety seat. The third row
bench both splits 50/50 and folds flat into the floor. The new gauge cluster is
easy to read and the center stack controls highlight just how talented Toyota
is in the art of ergonomics. A handy navigation system is offered, as three-zone
climate control and a family-pleasing rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Power
for the new Sienna comes from a 3.3-liter V-6, which now makes 230 hp and 242
lb-ft of torque-right in line with the leaders in the segment (which make 240
hp and 242 lb-ft). Like the Chryslers and the GM vans, the Sienna is offered with
all-wheel drive as a worthwhile option for families who keep on the go when the
weather says "stop." Starting at about $23K and rising up to over $40K
for a cushy XLE Limited with all the boxes checked.
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