Car Performance Specs

The 2011 Toyota Sienna ranks 1 out of 8 a Minivns. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Sienna, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Toyota Sienna is redesigned for 2011, and reviewers agree that it’s a far better minivan than before. No longer stuck behind the Honda Odyssey, the new Sienna takes on the former class leader in dynamics and comfort, while losing the bland styling that marked the previous Sienna. Most reviewers say that the 2011 Sienna is the best minivan on the market.
The first change most will notice on the 2011 Sienna is the revised exterior. Muscular and shapely, the new Sienna’s design infuses style into a segment marked by anonymity. Car and Driver echoes the feelings of most reviewers, saying, “We might go so far as to call the Sienna the best-looking minivan extant.” Stepping inside the 2011 Sienna reveals an all-new interior as well. While reviewers criticize some of the materials, most agree that it is well-designed with intuitively placed controls.
Starting at $24,260, the base Sienna comes equipped with tri-zone air conditioning, power windows and door locks, seven air bags, cruise control, LED taillights and alloy wheels. The base Sienna is one of the least expensive minivans, but Dodge and Kia also offer minivans at similar starting prices. Although the Sienna can be quite pricey when fully loaded, most models represent a solid value for the class.
While reviewers comment on the sluggish acceleration of the new base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, most contend it is adequate enough in the majority of driving situations. The optional 3.5-liter V6 receives high praise for its smooth, powerful nature and fuel efficiency (four-cylinder Siennas are EPA-rated at 19/24, while V6 models are rated at 18/24). The Sienna also stands out as the only minivan on the market to offer optional all-wheel drive.
New for 2011 is the sporty SE model. Reviewers say the SE is an oxymoron that works. It’s available only in front-wheel drive with V6 power, and reviewers express great pleasure in its retuned steering and suspension setup -- though its sporty looks may not be for everyone.

Other Minivans to Consider

Despite the fact that General Motors and Ford have left the minivan market in favor of crossovers, the Sienna is still up against lofty competition. Its biggest competitor is theHonda  Odssey Despite the consensus among reviewers that the Sienna is the new minivan king, Toyota’s perch will be challenged next year when Honda releases a redesigned Odyssey. Reviewers generally favor the driving characteristics of the Odyssey over the Sienna, commenting that only the sporty SE Sienna can compete with the Odyssey for road manners.
Falling short dynamically compared to the Sienna and Odyssey, the  Town & Country , Dodge Grand caravanare viable alternatives to Toyota’s latest minivan effort. Although the Chrysler and Dodge have worse interior materials than the Sienna, they do offer more storage space, including underfloor storage in the second row. This storage can also house the stowable second-row seats -- something to consider if you haul large items regularly.
Those seeking value can check out Kia’s Sedona which starts at about $2,000 less than the Sienna and comes with standard V6 power. However, buyers should know that it also rides on a wheelbase 5.5 inches shorter than the Sienna’s – which means it offers less interior room. If you need more room, you can buy the Sedona LX model, which rides on a similarly-sized wheelbase to the Sienna – but it also starts at almost the same price as the Sienna, so it won’t save you any money.
While the Sienna was not involved in  Toyotas accelerator pedal recall, some critics have begun to raise questions about Toyota’s quality. For its part, Toyota says it remains committed to quality and safety. Toyota has fitted a brake override system on the 2011 Sienna, which cuts the throttle when the brake pedal is pressed.