Minivans may not be sexy, but there’s no better way to haul around a bunch of people and cargo. After all, their utility and convenience are unmatched. The all-new Sienna, which has received a complete redesign, is one of the newer minivans on the market. Here’s all you need to know about it.
Why you should buy it:
– Hybrid powertrain offers excellent fuel economy.
– Large windows and the surround-view camera offer unobstructed views.
– It is available as an all-wheel-drive model.
What’s new for this model year:
– A new Woodland Edition trim.
– Minor changes to the optional and standard features.
Performance
The Sienna’s hybrid powertrain means it accelerates smoothly, albeit a little slower than some of its peers. That said, the slower acceleration is not at all evident when you’re just driving around town. One of the best things about the Sienna is that it drives more like a car, as opposed to a bulky SUV. The steering is weighted well, so you can cruise comfortably for hours on the subway. It’s also easy to turn, and emergency braking performance is decent.
Comfort
There’s no denying that the Sienna is a comfortable car. This is all thanks to the wide range of adjustability features it comes with. Optional Ottoman-style footrests that are in the second-row help create an almost business-class-like feel, adding to its comfort. The minivan also offers four-zone climate control (one zone more than competitors offer), allowing you to keep the cabin hot, cold, or cozy.
Interior
The Sienna is far ahead of its competitors in this area. It sits at a height, which means it is easy to get in and out of. The driving position is also quite versatile. Drivers will appreciate the large central touchscreen. Primary controls are placed logically and function well. The Sienna also comes with a digital rearview. Naturally, there’s great visibility out of the cabin.
Fuel economy
This is where the Sienna really shines. The vehicle is rated by the EPA at 36 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 36 mpg highway, but the Sienna is, in fact, capable of so much more than that.
Is it a good buy?
The Sienna is a solid vehicle. It’s well-built and free of rattles and squeaks. All the surfaces that you would normally touch, like the armrests, steering wheel, etc., are well padded and soft to the touch. All these aspects add to its upscale sense. Although a base Sienna is more expensive than competitor models, it’s well worth the money, given everything you get.