Today's Toyota Sienna is a far cry from early forms of the genre as crisp aerodynamic styling, power-sliding-rear-passenger doors, high-tech lighting systems and available aluminum alloy wheels make a strong design statement for a vehicle that provides the full functionality that the American family has come to expect in their everyday transportation.
To simplify matters, Toyota has opted to provide one power train option across the Sienna line, a 3.5 Liter 266 horsepower V6 that delivers its' 245 pound feet of torque to the front wheel or optional AWD systems via a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
Power assisted, ventilated front disc/rear drum ABS brakes are standard with 4-wheel discs available on the AWD and upper trim models.
The FWD Sienna delivers an EPA estimated 19 City/26 Highway with the AWD version getting a bit less at 18 City/23 Highway.
Inside, the Sienna is all about transporting people and/or cargo as up to eight passengers can be accommodated and the two rear rows of fold flat seating can be configured to be utilize the up to 148.9 cubic feet of cargo space.
Our test Sienna had an upscale feel as faux wood trim is used liberally on the center console, adjustable steering wheel and doors. A variety of audio and DVD entertainment systems are available and our Sienna came equipped with the DVD based navigation system.
There are 4 models to choose from in the Sienna line-up: the CE and LE and the upper scale XLE and Limited and the prospective buyer can further specify his choice of front wheel or all wheel drive and seven or eight-passenger configuration.
MSRP ranges from $24,155 for the CE up to $35,465 for the Limited and all vehicles carry a 36 month/36,000 mile warranty.
The 2007 Sienna from Toyota IS a long way from how it began many years ago. But with its combination of style and functionally it seems the changes are all for the better.