The 2011 Sienna was completely redesigned and upgraded. Fortunately, an AWD model is still available. Toyota has introduced a plenty of new and interesting changes; a new 4 cylinder engine, available recliner seating for the second row, split screen monitor for the rear entertainment system and a six speed automatic transmission.
There are five trim levels available, the LE, XLE, Base, Limited and SE versions. The base model includes dual sliding rear doors with power down windows, full power features, 17 inch alloy wheels, telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, four speaker stereo system and triple zone A/C. The new engine is a 2.7 liter inline four cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 186 pound feet of torque. Sienna’ gas mileage is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Standard safety features include stability control, windshield de-icer, ABS disc brakes, traction control, front seat side air bags, driver knee air bag, and full length side curtain airbags.
Sienna LE adds heated side mirrors, steering wheel audio controls, a 3.5 inch backup monitor, privacy glass, and an 8 way manual driver’s seat. LE comes with a V6 and offers power sliding side doors, auto dimming rear view mirror, roof rack, second and third row sun shades, six speaker audio system and satellite radio. Its engine is a 3.5 liter V6 that produces 265 horsepower.
SE is a sportier model with more aggressive styling. Model highlights are a leather wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, larger air intake, lower body skirting, 19 inch alloy wheels, and tinted head and tail lights. Sienna XLE includes a power lift gate, sunroof, triple zone climate control, metallic gray grill insert, tow prep package, leather interior, wood grain trim, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat. Front and rear park assist is optional on this model.
Sienna Limited is the top of the line plush model, featuring power folding side mirrors, dual sunroofs, 18 inch alloy wheels, two tone leather interior, leather and wood steering wheel, satin chrome grille, keyless ignition, 10 speaker JBL surround sound stereo system, keyless entry, second row lounge seats, power folding third row seat, front and rear park assist, and driver seat memory settings. Many different used Toyota Sienna SUVS near Illinois are available at Ackerman Toyota in Saint Louis.
Review of the New Toyota Sienna
The good news is that most every reviewer who test drove the 2012 Toyota Sienna “wholeheartedly recommends it.”
According to BestCars; “in a class that’s become extremely competitive, most reviewers say the 2012 Toyota Sienna is your best bet. Redesigned just last year, the Sienna has a comfortable interior with lots of cargo space and innovative features, like a split-screen DVD player and second row lounge chairs, that families should love. Available all-wheel drive and a choice between a four- or six-cylinder engine lets owners tailor the Sienna to their needs. And, with five trims, the Sienna works as both a family car that won’t suck college funds dry, and a near-luxury hauler for pampered kids who’ll use their trust funds to pay for college.”
As the market for minivans has decreased, there are only a few competitors “if you want a van that’s managed to stay ahead of a very competitive pack, reviewers recommend the 2012 Toyota Sienna,” says BestCars.
In 2011 the Toyota Sienna was revamped but changes were minimal and there were 5 trim levels available in the 2012 Sienna. The base trim includes the LE, SE, XLE, and the Limited. The Base and LE models are available with a 4 cylinder engine and the XLE, Limited, and SE models are available with a V6 only. SE models have sporty exterior features as well as sport tuned suspension, and recalibrated steering for a sporty drive.
“This is the best minivan out there.” — AutoWeek
“There’s something for everyone with five different trim levels, two different engines, front- or all-wheel drive, and even a sport-tuned SE edition. Yep, Toyota thinks the world is ready for a sporty minivan.” — Autoblog
” Simply the best value in minivans sold today.” — Edmunds