Today's Toyota Sienna is a far cry from early forms of the minivan genre. Its crisp aerodynamic styling, power-sliding-rear-passenger doors, high-tech lighting systems and available aluminum alloy wheels make strong design statements. At the same time, the Sienna provides the full functionality that the American family has come to expect in their everyday transportation and enjoys an excellent reputation for crash test safety, build quality and reliability.
Toyota provides one power train option across the Sienna line. A 3.5 Liter 266 horsepower V6 delivers its 245 pound feet of torque to the front wheel- or optional All Wheel Drive layout via a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
Power assisted, ventilated front disc/rear drum antilock brakes are standard with 4-wheel discs available on the All Wheel Drive and upper trim models.
The front wheel drive Sienna delivers an EPA estimated 17 miles per gallon City, 23 Highway with the all wheel drive version getting 16 miles per gallon City, 21 Highway.
Inside, the Sienna is all about transporting people in comfort. Up to eight passengers can be accommodated and the two rear rows of fold flat seating can be configured to utilize 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. Our Sienna came equipped with an in dash DVD navigation system.
A long list of luxury options is available. Recommended is what Toyota calls dynamic laser cruise control, which maintains the distance between the Sienna and vehicles to its front.
There are 4 models to choose from in the Sienna line-up: the CE and LE and the upper scale XLE and Limited. The prospective buyer can further specify their choice of front wheel or all wheel drive and seven or eight-passenger configuration.
Base MSRP for the 2008 Toyota Sienna is $24,340 for the base CE, and ranges up to around $35,000 for the Limited. All vehicles carry a 5-year/60,000 mile power train warranty.
The 2008 Sienna from Toyota is a long way from how it began many years ago. With its combination of style, comfort, safety and functionally the changes are all for the better.