Third-generation Toyota Sienna set for ‘10 debut

Toyota recently unveiled the all-new, third-generation Sienna minivan during the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The new Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo and handle big loads.

The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle those needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. With state-of the art features and rewarding driving dynamics, it is a vehicle that car lovers will find satisfying to drive. Sienna will offer new models, including a sporty SE and a four-cylinder powertrain, as it continues to be the only offering in the segment with an all-wheel-drive option.

“The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota’s commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers’ needs and changes in lifestyle,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager for the Toyota Division of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment.

The Sienna was designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

Visually Intriguing

The Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. The Sienna explores a more advanced and bold design. The sportier profile is complemented with distinctive window shapes. Working closely with engineering, Sienna designers were able to create a high and wide shoulder to embed a deliberately hidden door slider within the window graphic.

The strong, high shoulder and distinct fender flares visually emphasize the wheels. Dimensionally, the new Sienna rides on the same wheelbase as the prior generation, but it is wider and slightly shorter overall.

In the front, the design is bold. Sophisticated headlamps angled higher than the grille lend a confident front presence. The sculptural rear corner separates the Sienna from boxy minivans as it surrounds the functional yet elegant LED taillights.

The interior features upscale quality and elegance, yet every element is logical and functional. Sleek seat designs add flexibility and roominess, while central climate and audio controls are integrated into a single graphic element.

Overall, the new Sienna has a sportier, classier appearance. Careful design work brings about a quiet cabin and helps provide excellent fuel economy.

Power plus efficiency

A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available, a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand.

The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors’ V6 performance while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel-efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Both engines are matched with state-of-the-art, electronically controlled six-speed transmissions with sequential shift that provide smooth gearshift feeling, quiet performance and a lightweight, compact size.

Story Continues →