2004-2008 Toyota Sienna: Road Test

Extra power offsets added bulk, so these Siennas are adequately peppy around town. Highway passing demand full throttle, though, especially with a sizeable load. A test AWD Limited ran 0-60 mph in 8.7 sec. We've had no opportunity yet to time a lighter front-drive model, but Toyota's 8.3-sec 0-60 claim seems credible, based on our experience. Fuel economy is no better than minivan-average. Test XLEs averaged 17.3-18.5 mpg with front drive, 17.7-18.1 with AWD, all in even city/highway driving mixes. Toyota recommends 91-octane fuel, but 87 can be used in exchange for a slight drop in performance. Ride is comfortably composed, always desirable in minivans. Large humps and dips induce mild bounce, but the supple suspension irons out most rough pavement. AWD models tend to thump a bit more over sharp bumps and washboard surfaces, a penalty of the included stiff-sidewall run-flat tires. Handling is pleasant and competent, with moderate minivan cornering lean. But tire grip seems only adequate, the steering a tad overassisted for our tastes. The turning circle is tight for a minivan, but parking is still hampered by exterior size, though that's true of most rivals too. When it comes to quietness, though, only the Odyssey and sales-leading Chrysler/Dodge minivans compare. The V6 growls a bit at full throttle, but is otherwise muted. So is wind noise, given the boxy shape. That leaves coarse-pavement tire drone predominating in most situations, and it's not bad at all. Clear instrumentation and guess-free minor controls are expected in Toyotas. Sienna has them, but also a few switches scattered out of easy reach. CE and LE models use a straightforward climate system with four simple rotary knobs. XLEs and Limiteds include a more-versatile three-zone system, but it adds button clutter, and the display for settings is almost illegible in certain light conditions. We've not had a chance to test the optional navigation system, but it should be as user-friendly as those in other Toyotas. First-cabin occupants have roomy aplenty on wide, comfortable seats. A standard tilt/telescope steering wheel works with high "command" positioning to help drivers feel in control. Fine all-round visibility helps, though rear headrests and thick roof pillars are minor impediments to the right-rear. The second row offers long-haul space and comfort on bucket and bench seats alike. Either slide fore/aft to apportion space with the 3rd row, but need to be fully back for best leg room. Head room is only OK with sunroof, good otherwise. The bucket seats can form a two-passenger bench, as on the Odyssey, but not by simply sliding together. Instead, they must be repositioned on floor anchors, a cumbersome chore considering they weigh 55 lb apiece. The 3rd-row bench is kid-size and a bit hard, but 2nd-row seats double-fold to provide reasonably easy access. All rear passengers get roof-mounted air ducts, a nice touch. Cargo space is ample, if not best in class. A 4x8-ft panel lays flat with the 2nd-row seats removed and the 3rd-row stowed. The split 3rd-row seat folds easily into its floor well, which can otherwise carry a dozen or so grocery bags. All models bar the base CE include a fold-flat right-front seat for long cargo. Also serving utility are assorted bag hooks, cargo tie-downs, bins and pockets, plus a liftgate that rises high enough to clear a six-footer's head. Not useful at all is the space-saver spare on front-drive models that stows below the chassis, forcing a full-size flat to be carried inside, though that's not a problem on AWD versions with their run-flat tires.

Value for the Money
Sienna blends many good minivan ideas with first-rate refinement, carlike road manners, and solid workmanship. Toyota's reputation for reliability is a special plus for secondhand shoppers, but it also fuels demand, so Siennas will likely cost more than comparably equipped rivals of the same age and condition. Still, these Siennas earned our Recommended ribbon as new vehicles, and used ones are just as easy to endorse.