Minivans might not be the most glamorous vehicles, but their practicality is undeniable. The Toyota Sienna, available exclusively as a hybrid, stands out for its impressive fuel efficiency and spaciousness. This review delves into the Sienna’s strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the Woodland Edition.
Fuel Efficiency and Spaciousness: The Sienna’s Winning Combination
With gas prices soaring, the Sienna’s remarkable fuel economy is a major advantage. Averaging 34 MPG in mixed driving conditions, this minivan outperforms many smaller crossovers. This exceptional efficiency, coupled with its 203-inch length, makes the Sienna a compelling choice for families and road trip enthusiasts.
The Sienna’s interior comfort and spaciousness are also key selling points. The third-row seating comfortably accommodates adults, making it ideal for large groups.
Performance and Handling: A Comfortable but Dull Ride
While not a performance vehicle, the Sienna offers a competent driving experience. It handles corners surprisingly well for a minivan and the available AWD provides added grip and stability in challenging conditions. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, making long journeys more enjoyable. The Sienna boasts modern technology and safety features, further enhancing its appeal.
Drawbacks: Torque Steer and Interior Quality
One notable drawback is the presence of torque steer, particularly when accelerating at higher speeds. This issue, likely due to the Sienna’s FWD bias until slippage occurs, can be disconcerting. The soft suspension contributes to this problem, as hard acceleration causes noticeable rear squatting.
Another disappointment is the lack of easily removable or flat-folding second-row seats, a feature offered by competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica. The interior quality, with its hard plastics and rubbery materials, also feels somewhat lacking for a vehicle in its price range.
The Woodland Edition: A Questionable Choice
The Woodland Edition, marketed as a more rugged variant, offers minimal upgrades over the XLE trim. The slight increase in ground clearance is negligible and the “Cement” paint color seems at odds with the “Woodland” theme.
Conclusion: A Practical Minivan with Some Flaws
The Toyota Sienna minivan, particularly the hybrid version, excels in fuel efficiency and passenger space. However, the torque steer issue and questionable Woodland Edition detract from its overall appeal. Potential buyers should weigh these factors against the Sienna’s undeniable practicality and consider alternatives like the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. The Sienna’s strengths lie in its ability to comfortably transport people and cargo while achieving impressive fuel economy.
