The ultimate Mom-and-Pop-Mobile the illustrious minivan may be one of the most unappreciated vehicles of all time.
Most people never thought they would be seen driving in what was considered the epitome of ego neutering. It is noteworthy, too, that the demographic that found the minivan a great way to transport kids and stuff around town had just gone through the ‘me’ teen years when cars equated image. No one said growing up was easy.
However, sometimes it takes absence to make the heart grow fonder. And it does seem the roads are almost devoid of what was a staple of parenthood; but not quite.
Toyota’s 2011 Sienna first drove on the scene in 1998. Since that time the minivan has posted some great stats in safety and dependability; two qualities parents know have to ‘be there’ in a family car. The 2011 Sienna is fully redesigned and ready for the grandchildren of the previous owners. Today’s buyers will find five trim levels to choose from including: Base, LE, SE, XLE, and Limited. The LE and XLE can be purchased with either seven or eight seating and the Base and Limited offer seating for seven.
Engine size in the base and LE is 2.7-L inline 4 offering 187 horses and the SE, XLE, and Limited come with a 3.5-L V-6 which granting 265 hp. Both Sienna engine choices come with a six speed automatic and FWD. The LE, XLE, and Limited are also available with AWD. Interior features become more lavish as we move up trim levels. The base model offers tri-zone-air conditioning, sliding rear doors, alloy wheels, and power windows and doors. Moving up the LE V-6 adds an upgraded audio system and more power accessories. The SE becomes sportier in cabin style and dashboard. The XLE offers a sunroof and leather upholstery. The XLE AWD trim level offers passengers in the second seat row a bit of pampering–footrests. Those opting for the Limited find a large rear-seat DVD that offers a split screen for viewing two movies at once (option), a liftgate, dual sunroofs, and JBL sound.
The third generation Toyota Sienna has a base MSRP of $24,260 moving up to the Limited with a MSRP of $39,770. All in all if you are looking more for your comfort zone than your danger zone, the 2011 Toyota Sienna was and is a good all around family vehicle.
