The Toyota Sienna entered its second year of the third generation in 2012, building upon a complete redesign that prioritized family needs with enhanced comfort, versatility, and a touch of style. As a leading Minivan Toyota 2012 model, the Sienna continued to offer features that set it apart in the competitive minivan segment, including the unique option of all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine choice. For families seeking a reliable and feature-rich minivan, the 2012 Toyota Sienna remained a top contender.
The 2011 redesign was a significant step for the Sienna, aiming to meet the evolving demands of modern families. Toyota focused on creating a vehicle that was not just practical but also enjoyable to drive, incorporating advanced infotainment technology and more engaging driving dynamics. The Toyota minivan 2012 model year further refined this approach, adding even more convenience and value.
For the 2012 model year, Toyota enhanced the popular XLE grade by adding a standard power passenger seat and convenient auto on/off headlights. These subtle yet significant upgrades underscored Toyota’s commitment to improving the Sienna based on real-world family needs and preferences. Designed primarily by Toyota’s Calty Design Research and developed at the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the 2012 Sienna minivan was a product of American design and engineering, assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Indiana.
Exterior Design: Sleek and Functional
Toyota aimed to give the 2012 Toyota Sienna a more distinctive and less boxy appearance compared to traditional minivans. The exterior design achieves a sleek profile that is both aesthetically pleasing and aerodynamically efficient. With a low coefficient of drag (Cd) of just 0.306, the Sienna reduces wind resistance, contributing to a quieter cabin and improved fuel economy – key considerations for minivan owners.
Alt text: Sleek side profile of a 2012 Toyota Sienna minivan, highlighting its aerodynamic design.
The design incorporates clever details such as hidden sliding door tracks integrated within the side window frames, maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted visual flow. The sophisticated headlamp design and sculpted rear corners further distinguish the Toyota Sienna 2012 from other vans on the market, giving it a more modern and refined look.
Interior Design: Upscale Comfort and Practicality
Stepping inside the 2012 Sienna, you’ll find an interior that balances upscale quality with everyday functionality. The dashboard features a distinctive swept design, creating a sense of spaciousness and personal space for both the driver and front passenger. Every element is thoughtfully placed for ease of use and convenience.
The seating design emphasizes flexibility and roominess. Central climate and audio controls are neatly integrated into a single, user-friendly graphic element, minimizing clutter and maximizing intuitive operation. The focus is on creating a comfortable and organized environment for both short trips and long family journeys in the Toyota minivan 2012.
Alt text: Spacious interior of a 2012 Toyota Sienna minivan, emphasizing the user-friendly dashboard and roomy cabin.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Choices for Every Need
The 2012 Toyota Sienna minivan offered two engine choices, catering to different driving preferences and priorities. Both engines are responsive and utilize advanced technologies to balance power with fuel efficiency.
3.5-Liter V6 Engine
For those seeking robust power and confident performance, the 3.5-liter V6 engine is the ideal choice. Producing 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, this engine delivers strong acceleration and ample power for highway driving and hauling passengers and cargo. Despite its power, the V6 engine still offers respectable fuel economy with EPA-estimated ratings of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway (17 mpg city/23 mpg highway for AWD models). Furthermore, the V6 Sienna boasts a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, adding to its versatility.
2.7-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine provides a compelling alternative in the 2012 Toyota Sienna. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, it offers sufficient power for daily driving while achieving EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. This engine makes the Toyota Sienna 2012 one of the more fuel-efficient minivans in its class.
Both engines are paired with a smooth and efficient electronically controlled six-speed transmission with sequential shift. This transmission enhances driving comfort, ensures quiet operation, and is designed to be lightweight and compact, contributing to overall vehicle efficiency.
The Sienna’s suspension system, featuring front MacPherson struts and rack-and-pinion steering, provides a comfortable and controlled ride. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and a wide stance contribute to a solid and direct feel on the road, making the 2012 minivan Toyota Sienna surprisingly agile for its size. Aerodynamic underbody elements further enhance the Sienna’s dynamic performance and fuel efficiency.
Trim Levels and Features: Something for Every Family
The 2012 Toyota Sienna was available in a range of five trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and amenities to suit various needs and budgets. These trims included the base Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE, and Limited. All-wheel drive was available on V6 LE, XLE, and Limited models, providing enhanced traction and confidence in various weather conditions.
Even the base Sienna grade and the popular LE trim were well-equipped with standard features such as cruise control, daytime running lights, tri-zone air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM CD player with auxiliary input.
Moving up to the LE V6 model added desirable features like dual power-sliding doors, a power rear door, an upgraded audio system with SiriusXM® compatibility, Bluetooth® connectivity, and a rearview camera. These features could also be added as an optional package to the four-cylinder LE model.
The XLE trim built upon the LE, adding leather-trimmed seats, a moonroof, an anti-theft system, and heated front seats. Optional upgrades for the XLE included a premium JBL® sound system with navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, and parking sonar.
At the top of the range, the Limited trim offered luxury-focused features like second-row Lounge Seating, a power-folding third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, Smart Key system, Safety Connect™, and dual moonroofs. Optional features for the Limited included HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Sporty SE Model
For drivers wanting a minivan with a more athletic appearance and driving experience, the 2012 Toyota Sienna SE was the standout choice. The SE model featured unique exterior styling with a bolder front fascia, side skirts, 19-inch alloy wheels, and smoked taillights. More than just aesthetics, the Sienna SE also included a sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling and a more engaging driving dynamic. Exclusive interior trim and instrumentation further differentiated the sporty SE model.
Alt text: Sporty front design of a 2012 Toyota Sienna SE, highlighting its unique grille and alloy wheels.
Interior Versatility: Designed for Family Life
The interior of the 2012 Toyota Sienna is designed with family versatility in mind. The spacious cabin offers ample passenger space and numerous storage solutions. A conversation mirror integrated into the overhead console allows easy communication with rear passengers.
Both seven and eight-passenger configurations are available, offering flexible seating arrangements to accommodate different family sizes and cargo needs. Seven-seat models feature second-row captain’s chairs that slide a generous 23 inches, providing exceptional legroom or allowing closer proximity to front seats for easy reach to children.
Eight-passenger models include a removable second-row center seat that can be stowed away to create a seven-passenger configuration with added convenience. The second-row seats also feature a “Tip Up and Long Slide” mechanism for easy access to the third row.
The third-row 60/40 Split & Stow seat folds flat with a single motion, and the Limited front-wheel-drive model even features a power-folding third row. With the third row stowed and second-row seats removed, the Sienna offers a cavernous cargo area of approximately 150 cubic feet.
Innovative Technology and Safety Features
The 2012 Toyota Sienna incorporated innovative technologies for entertainment and safety. The available rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center could display a single widescreen image or two separate images side-by-side, catering to different passenger preferences. A Panorama Camera rear monitor provided a wide 180-degree view with backup guides, enhancing parking and maneuvering visibility.
Toyota prioritized safety in the 2012 Sienna, with the Star Safety System™ standard on all models. This system included Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Traction Control (TRAC). Seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, and active front headrests were also standard.
The Limited trim offered optional advanced safety features like a Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). Safety Connect™ telematics system, standard on Limited and optional on XLE, provided features like Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, and Emergency Assistance Button (SOS).
Conclusion: A Top Choice for Families in 2012 and Beyond
The 2012 Toyota Sienna solidified its position as a top choice in the minivan segment. With its blend of comfort, versatility, performance options, and available all-wheel drive, the Sienna catered to a wide range of family needs. Whether prioritizing fuel efficiency, sporty styling, or luxurious features, the Toyota minivan 2012 lineup offered a compelling option. For families considering a reliable and feature-rich minivan, the 2012 Toyota Sienna remains a vehicle worth exploring in the used car market.
