2011 Toyota Sienna

Third-generation minivan features new sport grade

By Nina Russin

2011 Toyota Sienna SE

What was once old is new again. The minivan is, after all, the original active lifestyle vehicle. At its peak in the late 1990s, the minivan segment commanded a million unit sales annually.

Minivans are more aerodynamic, and hence get better gas mileage than sport-utility vehicles; yet they hold as many passengers and carry as much gear. The 2011 Toyota Sienna that rolls out in February is available with all-wheel drive. Three rows of seating hold up to eight passengers. The V6 model’s 3500-pound towing capacity meets our ALV minimum standard.

A new sport grade with a unique exterior, larger wheels and special suspension tuning rivals like-sized crossover vehicles. Read the rest of this entry »