2024 Toyota Sienna Review

Not many of us grow up dreaming of driving minivans.

But when you get to a point in life where one becomes a must, you probably want one that doesn’t make you feel like you’re being punished for picking something practical. Enter the 2024 Toyota Sienna. Inspired by the design of Japan’s shinkansen bullet trains, the Sienna is thoroughly modern, offering a wonderful mix of advanced and safety technologies, and an assortment of creature comforts.

Styling: 7/10

The Sienna makes a powerful stylistic first impression. Whether that impression is good or bad is strictly in the eye of the beholder. The unique look isn’t limited to the exterior. Inside, a very long centre console features a flat countertop-like surface that stretches from the back of the first row of seats all the way to the dash, and then continues on, turning into a shelf in front of the front-seat passenger. Beyond this unique design element, the rest of the cabin is very upscale and pleasing to the eye.

Safety: 9.5/10

Every Sienna comes with a robust safety package. It includes a host of advanced features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic high-beam control, lane departure warning and keeping assistance, and more.

Features: 8/10

While all trims are well equipped with key features, the higher-priced models get a few notable extras as standard equipment. Every Sienna comes with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a nine-inch touchscreen, seven USB charging ports, push-button start, and power sliding doors with sunshades, to name but a few nice-to-have features. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, only the top two trims get wireless charging, a 120-volt power outlet, a rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, and other goodies.

User-Friendliness: 9/10

While the infotainment system may cause a bit of head-scratching, everything else is intuitive and easy to understand and use. Thanks to the standard eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat and tilt/telescopic steering wheel, the ideal driving position is easy to find. Getting into and out of the Sienna is a breeze. Even third-row occupants won’t complain, since the seats in front slide well out of their way. Moreover, there’s ample legroom for all.

Practicality: 9/10

That the Sienna’s second row of seats can’t be stowed or removed is a drawback. While the third row folds flat into the floor, the second row can only be moved forward. That can be a problem if you need to haul drywall or plywood, or help the neighbour transport a sofa.

Comfort: 10/10

The Sienna deserves extra points for comfort. Not only are all three rows a delight, even on longer road trips, but the top trim comes with extendable leg rests in the second row. These give occupants a recliner-like experience, allowing them to put their feet up (literally) and enjoy the ride. Add in the available entertainment system and wireless headphones, and the Sienna promises to eliminate the dreaded question of “Are we there yet?” from family road trips.

Power: 8/10

Only one powertrain is available: a 2.5L four-cylinder engine coupled to an automatic continuously-variable transmission (CVT). This hybrid powertrain pumps out a total of 245 hp. While that’s less than competitors like the Kia Carnival, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica, it’s hard to beat the Sienna’s fuel economy numbers (more on that later).

Driving Feel: 9/10

The Sienna drives well for a minivan. It offers a refined ride, absorbs bumps well, and is easy to manoeuvre. Acceleration is smooth, the CVT changes simulated gears effortlessly, and the cabin is wonderfully quiet. The only time the tranquility is disturbed is when you mash the gas pedal. The Sienna’s engine tends to complain and whine under heavy acceleration – a byproduct of the transmission. Otherwise, it’s perfectly happy and quiet.

Fuel Economy: 10/10

You can’t beat the Sienna’s fuel economy. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) gives front-wheel-drive models a combined rating of 6.6 L/100 km, and all-wheel drive models a rating of 6.7. That’s impressive, especially for something as big as a minivan. In comparison, the Kia Carnival is rated at 10.7 combined, and the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica both at 10.6.

Value: 9/10

Toyota has done an excellent job of engineering a minivan that offers features important to those who need a minivan. The fuel economy numbers can’t be beat, the complete safety package offers peace of mind, and the luxurious interior and refined ride make daily jaunts to the grocery store – as well as longer road trips with the kids – a pleasure for the driver and everyone else onboard. You can get into a Sienna, equipped with all the aforementioned essentials, for $46,880 (includes $1,930 for freight). In comparison, the Kia Carnival starts at $39,545 (all prices include freight but not taxes), the Honda Odyssey at $53,970, the Chrysler Pacifica at $58,865 and the Pacifica Hybrid at $62,190.

The Verdict

If you need a minivan, then the 2024 Toyota Sienna should be on top of your must-see list of vehicles to test drive. And unless second-row captain’s chairs are a must, you’ll do well with the XLE front-wheel-drive version with eight-passenger seating that’s priced at $49,880 before tax, making it something of a bargain in the Sienna lineup.