0
0
Minivan; Built in USA
  • 4-door van
  • transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $8,900 – $32,800*


2011 Toyota Sienna Front


2011 Toyota Sienna Rear


2011 Toyota Sienna Interior


2011 Toyota Sienna Profile


2011 Toyota Sienna Interior-2


2011 Toyota Sienna Front-2

Pros:
  • Available all-wheel drive
  • Entry/exit
  • Passenger and cargo room
Cons:
  • Control layout
  • Engine noise (4-cylinder at lower speeds)
  • Maneuverability

The redesigned Toyota Sienna became a must-see minivan almost by default, as it brought leading-edge design and features to a small market segment. Sienna stands out from the minivan pack as the only one to offer a four-cylinder engine and AWD. The newly available four-cylinder delivers reasonable pickup with the promise of added fuel economy. The new sport SE model adds a welcome dash of spice to an otherwise staid class of vehicles. Sienna still doesn’t match Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Go fold-flush second-row seats, but compensates with a sliding second row that offers great passenger and cargo versatility. All told, Sienna brings enough to the table to earn consideration.

Overview

Redesigned for 2011, Toyota’s Sienna gained freshened styling, a new sporty trim level, and available four-cylinder power. This minivan came in Base, LE, XLE, and top-line Limited trim levels. New for 2011 was the sporty SE, which had specific styling cues and a sport suspension. Standard on Base and LE models was a new 187-horsepower, 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. Optional on those models and standard on all others was a 266-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6. Prior Siennas had been V6-only. The sole transmission for all Siennas was a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard on all models. All-wheel drive was offered on the LE V6, XLE, and Limited. Toyota claimed its Sienna was the only van in its segment with an AWD option. Siennas could seat seven passengers, or eight via a detachable second-row jumpseat that could be stored in the cargo area when not in use. The second-row captain’s chairs could slide fore or aft up to 23 inches to benefit passenger or cargo room. Second-row seat cushions could also tip up, allowing the seats to slide closer to the front row to boost cargo space. Limiteds and AWD XLEs offered “Lounge Seating” second-row captain’s chairs with reclining seatbacks and flip-up footrests. These seats did not include the tip-up-cushion feature or detachable jumpseat. Power-folding third-row seats and Toyota’s Safety Connect assistance system were Limited-exclusive features. Standard safety features included all-disc antilock braking, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. Among the newly available features were a wide-screen DVD entertainment system that could display video from either one or two different sources, as well as a panoramic rearview camera. Also available were a navigation system, keyless entry and starting, and front/rear park assist. Toyota’s Sienna competed against the Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, and Nissan Quest.

Yearly Updates

2012 Sienna
Little changed for the 2012 Toyota Sienna, except that the XLE model added a standard power passenger seat and automatic on/off headlights.
2013 Sienna
Most models received some new standard and optional equipment for 2013. The 4-cylinder engine was dropped from the Sienna’s roster.
2014 Sienna
The Toyota Sienna was largely unchanged for 2014. One tweak was that the SE model now offered a blind-spot monitor as a standalone option rather than part of an option package.
2015 Sienna
For 2015, Toyota’s minivan received a through freshening that included minor exterior styling updates, upgraded interior, improved sound insulation, and new technology features. New safety features included integrated blind-spot mirrors, a standard back-up camera on all models, a passenger seat cushion airbag (Sienna had a class-leading 8 airbags in all), and an additional LATCH anchor in the third-row seat (for a total of four—two in the second row and two in the third).

Engines

transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive

Siennas have been available with either a four-cylinder engine or a V6. The 2.7-liter four-cylinder developed 187 horsepower and was offered in the 2011 and 2012 model years. The 3.5-liter V6 was good for 266 horsepower. Both engines mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

dohc I4
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.7/163
Engine HP 187
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 186
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic 19/24 22.7
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/211
Engine HP 266
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 245
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic 18/24

Road Test

Toyota’s four-cylinder engine is sufficiently peppy in around-town driving, but provides only adequate punch for highway passing or hill climbs. Load it with people and/or gear, and this engine will be put under strain. The V6 is stronger all-around, even with all-wheel drive. With either engine, the transmission delivers prompt, smooth shifts.

Fuel economy is in the typical range for a minivan. In Consumer Guide testing, a four-cylinder model averaged 22.7 mpg. Judging by EPA estimates, the V6 shouldn’t be much different. All Siennas use regular-grade gasoline.

Ride quality scores reasonably well. A Sienna is comfortably composed. Large humps and dips induce some body bounce, but the suspension irons out most rough pavement. AWD models have run-flat tires that have little effect on ride quality. The SE’s sport suspension is tauter, causing large bumps and other trouble spots to register more sharply.

Handling is pleasant and competent for a minivan, with moderate cornering lean. Steering is accurate and communicative, though some drivers might find it a tad over-assisted. Tire grip seems only adequate. An SE’s sport suspension delivers a slightly more athletic, connected-to-the-road feel. The turning radius is tight, but parking ease is hampered by Sienna’s overall length. AWD is an all-weather plus.

Siennas are pleasantly quiet overall, though the four-cylinder engine is noticeably noisier and coarser-sounding than the V6. Both engines recede nicely in steady-state cruising, however. Wind rush is well-contained. Moderate tire thrum is heard on coarse pavement, particularly with the SE model’s 19-inch tires.

Instrument panel graphics differ slightly, depending on model. On all, the main gauges are clear and easy to see, but some indicator lights are blocked by the steering-wheel rim. Climate and audio controls are logically arranged, but several buttons are placed out of easy reach. The location of the transmission shift lever can interfere with operation of the windshield wipers and other secondary controls. Interior materials are sturdy and class-appropriate, though the dashboard suffers from some hard, hollow-feeling plastic. The base upholstery is pleasant, but the velour-like fabric feels a bit old-fashioned. The SE’s unique interior trimmings bring a surprisingly sporty vibe. Leather upholstery in the XLE and Limited, along with other cabin upgrades, deliver a more upscale ambiance.

Siennas have plenty of room on comfortable front seats. Standard seat and steering-wheel adjustments cater to most any size driver. Visibility is good, though rear headrests and thick side roof pillars serve as minor over-the-shoulder obstructions. The available flip-down rear DVD screen intrudes only slightly on rear visibility. Entry and exit are a snap.

In the rear, second-row seats are long-haul comfortable. They slide fore and aft nearly 2 feet, enabling legroom to grow from just-adequate to limousine-generous. The available second-row jumpseat is small with stingy padding, and it’s a bit tricky to remove or install. However, it can be conveniently stored on-board in the rear cargo area. The Limited’s second-row “lounge” seats are a novel indulgence. All second-row seats are heavy and cumbersome to remove or install. The firm third-row bench is best suited for preteens but is reasonably accessible, as the second-row seats slide far forward to open a fairly wide passage.

The hideaway third-row seat is split for versatility; its sections drop easily into a floorwell that otherwise holds 12 or more grocery bags. The Limited’s third-row power-folding feature is an added convenience, though it operates slowly and has not been offered on AWD versions. A 4×8 panel fits inside with the second-row seats removed and the third row stowed, thought it likely would scuff the side walls. Cabins have numerous bag hooks, cargo tie-downs, bins, and pockets. Small-items storage is ample, highlighted by two large gloveboxes and, on most models, a generously-sized center console. The open liftgate doesn’t quite clear a 6-footer’s head. Note: Front-drive models have a temporary spare tire on the underbody of the van. Thus, a full-size flat tire must be stored inside the van. AWD Siennas came with run-flats and no spare, though one has been available.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2011 Toyota Sienna SE

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 5
50%
Ride Quality - 6
60%
Steering/Handling - 5
50%
Quietness - 6
60%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 5
50%
Room/Comfort Front - 8
80%
Room/Comfort Rear - 7
70%
Cargo Room - 10
100%

Other

Value - 7
70%

Total: 65

Specifications

4-door van
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
119.3 200.2 78.1 68.9 4275
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
150 20 8
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
41 39.7 40.5 37.6
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2012 Toyota Sienna 4-door van

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 3
60%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

Trouble Spots

Doors
Description: Sliding doors will not latch manually. (2011-15)
Audio system
Description: USB devices and iPods may not work or may work intermittently unless the multimedia interface module was replaced. (2011)
Windows
Description: The rear quarter window weather strip may come loose of fall off and a replacement with better adhesive was made available. (2011-12)
Electrical problem
Description: The SOS light may glow red and the Bluetooth microphone may not work well requiring an improved telematics transceiver. (2011)
Software problems
Description: The Pre-Collision System has a programing error in the Driving Support ECU that can prevent reactivation of the Pre-Collision Braking feature if the vehicle is stationary for at least 10 seconds. A revised ECU must be installed to correct the problem. (2011-14)
Software problems
Description: Certain 2014 Toyota Sienna models may have an issue that causes the Safety Connect System to become disabled. Dealers need to initialize the system to ensure proper operation. (2014)

Recall History

2011 Toyota Sienna
Description: In limited circumstances on certain vehicles, brake stoplamp switch bracket could be damaged by driver’s foot during parking-brake application; could result in brake drag with associated noise, vibration, and/or illumination of brake warning light.
2011 Toyota Sienna
Description: On certain vehicles made on March 7-10, 2011, front right driveshaft might possibly break due to insufficient heat treatment, which could cause loss of power without prior warning.
2011 Toyota Sienna
Description: On some vehicles with a non-Toyota overhead entertainment system and Bluetooth device, front A-pillar trim panel retention clip may have been damaged, which could allow panel to come loose.
2011 Toyota Sienna w/aftermarket heated seats
Description: Heated seats installed by Southeast Toyota Distributors may have frayed wires that could result in fire.
2011 Toyota Sienna
Description: Airbag inflators may rupture during airbag deployment and metal fragments could injure passengers.
2011 Toyota Sienna
Description: The spare tire carrier cable may corrode and the spare could separate from the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash.
2011-12 Toyota Sienna
Description: Tire placard on certain vehicles may have incorrect information on vehicle load capacity, which could lead to tire overloading and possible failure.
2011-15 Toyota Sienna
Description: Power-sliding door may open unexpectedly while the vehicle is moving.
2011-2013 Toyota Sienna
Description: Certain 2011, 2012, and 2013 model Toyota Sienna vehicles that had accessories including leather seat covers, seat heaters, or headrest-mounted DVD systems installed by Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) may not have a properly calibrated occupant sensing system in the passenger-side front seat. This makes it possible that the passenger’s side air bag will not deploy at all or deploy with inappropriate force for the size of the passenger in the seat.
2012 Toyota Sienna
Description: On some vehicles with non-original-equipment remote engine starter, a malfunction in starter module could present normal communication of the vehicles’ controller area network; if so, antilock braking and stability control could be lost.
2014 Toyota Sienna
Description: Fuel may leak from one of the fuel delivery pipes, possibly causing a fire in the engine compartment.
2014 Toyota Sienna
Description: Certain 2014 model Toyota Sienna vehicles built between June 17, 2014 and June 24, 2014 may have transmission shift control cables that were damaged during assembly. The cable could bind or separate, resulting in incorrect gear selection.
2015 Toyota Sienna
Description: On some vehicles with a non-Toyota overhead entertainment system, front A-pillar trim panel retention clip may have been damaged, which could allow panel to come loose.
2015 Toyota Sienna
Description: The assist grip may detach during curtain side airbag deployment and strike a vehicle occupant.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on May 22, 2017.
Share this:
, , , , , , ,