Minivans were the de facto choice for families needing to haul plenty of people and stuff when they arrived, in earnest, on the automotive scene in the 1980s. Minivans’ popularity continued to soar throughout the rest of the millennium, but their prevalence began to fade with the rise of the SUV and the stigma surrounding minivans.
However, modern minivans remain the ultimate pragmatic tools for families, providing ample passenger and cargo space, some conveniences only a van can provide, and they are no longer so unengaging to drive that walking seems like a more exciting alternative. One of the most notable players in the limited but highly competitive minivan segment is the Toyota Sienna. The Sienna is a stalwart of the group — it was introduced in 1997 — and the model received a significant overhaul for its fourth generation for the 2021 model year.
The Sienna separates itself from the pack by offering all the practicality and family-friendly features expected of the segment, but it does so with an economical focus — both at the dealership and when it comes time to fill up its tank. The 2023 Sienna arrives with a few updates for its 25th year in production, including an anniversary model. What remains the same is the Toyota being a strong candidate to consider in the ultra-competitive minivan class.
2023 Toyota Sienna XSE
- Model
- Sienna XSE
- Engine:
- 2.5-Liter, Four-Cylinder Hybrid
- Power Output
- 245 HP
- Torque
- 176 LB-FT
- Range
- 648 Miles
- Transmission
- Electronic Continous Variable
- Driveline
- FWD
- MSRP
- $42,945
- MSRP (As Tested)
- $47,465
- Sliding Middle Row Seats
- Rear Seat Entertainment System
- Hybrid Powertrain
- Synthetic/Genuine Leather Seating
- 2nd-Row Captain's Chairs
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
2023 Toyota Sienna Performance And Capability
The 2023 Toyota Sienna competes directly with the Kia Carnival, Chrysler Pacifica, and Honda Odyssey, and it stands out as the only model to be offered solely with a hybrid powertrain. The 2023 Sienna is exclusively powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with either two or three electric motors to produce 245 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive versions are available with a third electric motor, though total system output remains the same.
Though performance may not top the priority list for those in the market for a minivan, but the Sienna is among the slower offerings. It requires 7.5 seconds to scoot from 0-60 mph, which is on par with the Pacifica Hybrid but slower than the internal-combustion-only Carnival and Odyssey. But what the hybrid powertrain lacks in verve, it makes up for in efficiency.
The Sienna delivers 36 combined mpg (36 city/36 highway) in front-wheel drive models and 35 combined (35 city/36 highway) in all-wheel drive versions. The Sienna can only drive solely on electric power in ultra-low rpm situations, unlike the Pacifica Hybrid, but the Chrysler can manage just 30 combined mpg when using gasoline. The Kia and Honda, meanwhile, each deliver around 22 combined mpg.
The Sienna’s hybrid powertrain also delivers respectable towing capability — it can haul up to 3,500 pounds in the Woodland Edition. The Sienna prioritizes comfort, as expected, over performance, but its large dimensions don’t equate to any difficulties or major complaints from behind the wheel. The steering is lightly weighted, the brakes offer adequate “feel,” and the suspension, though softly sprung, doesn’t lead to overly significant body roll in corners. It will soak up most road imperfections with relative easy, providing a mostly supple ride for passengers in all three rows.
Exterior Design
One of the most notable reasons for the minivan stigma are their looks. After all, minivans emphasize space over style. There is no mistaking the Sienna as a minivan on the road, but Toyota says it attempted to give the Sienna more SUV-like styling for its fourth generation, and it’s a mission somewhat successful.
Those seeking the most “aggressive” design should consider the XSE model or the 25th Anniversary Special Edition. These models feature a larger front grille, a more angular front fascia, a more imposing lower rear fascia, and 20-inch wheels. In line with Toyota’s recent design trends, there are plenty of sharp angles and lines to keep things interesting.
For instance, the liftgate is squared off but there are plenty of creases and sharp lines between the aggressively styled rear lights. The large grille, flanked by faux inlets, is also quite imposing. In profile, a gently curved beltline, flared rear wheel arches and a distinctive character line set offer some visual flair. Overall, there’s no mistaking the Sienna for a minivan, but it’s certainly not the completely humdrum Sienna model of yesteryear.
Exterior Dimensions
Length | 203.7 in. |
|---|---|
Width | 78.5 in. |
Height | 68.5 in. |
Wheelbase | 120.5 in. |
Ground Clearance | 6.3 in. |
Curb Weight | 4,610 lbs. |
Exterior Colors
Exterior Colors | Price |
|---|---|
Midnight Black | $0 |
Cypress | $0 |
Sunset Bronze | $0 |
Predawn Gray | $0 |
Ice Cap | $0 |
Blueprint | $0 |
Celestial Silver | $0 |
Ruby Flare | $425 |
Windchill Pearl | $425 |
Interior Quality And Technology
Far more important than exterior looks to a minivan shopper is the layout and functionality of the cabin, and in those regards, the Sienna is solid. The Toyota is offered as standard with a second-row bench seat for an eight-passenger capacity, though middle-row captain’s chairs are available with seating for up to seven.
The Limited model includes a wireless charging pad, genuine leather upholstery, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, and second-row ottomans, while the top-tier Platinum includes additional safety features, premium leather seats, a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats. The Rear Seat Entertainment System, which is available on all but base models for $1,415, includes a roof drop-down 11.6-inch display with HDMI inputs, a remote, and two wireless headphones. An in-car vacuum is also available.
Passengers in all three rows are given ample space. Riders in the front two rows have ample headroom and room to stretch while those in the back seats are still offered 37.4 inches of headroom and nearly 39 inches of legroom. The middle row can slide forward or back up to 25 inches to either configure seating space.
The Sienna is fairly well equipped as standard with power-sliding rear doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, seven USB ports and a nine-inch touchscreen, but many families will want to consider a mid- or upper-range model for their long list of desirable features. The XLE adds a power rear liftgate, four-zone climate control, a sunroof, synthetic leather seats that are heated in the front, and keyless entry with push-button start.
The 2023 Sienna delivers ample cargo room with a notable 33.5 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats and 75 cubic feet behind the second row. The Sienna offers a deep cargo deck behind the back seats to increase capacity. The back seats fold into the recessed area when tucked away for a flat deck area. There are also plenty of other storage options like deep door pockets and a sizable center console.
Interior Dimensions
Seating Capacity | 7-8 |
|---|---|
Headroom (front) | 40.1 in. |
Headroom (second row) | 39.3 in. |
Legroom (front) | 40.3 in. |
Legroom (second row) | 39.9 in. |
Shoulder room (front) | 62.4 in. |
Shoulder room (second row) | 62.7 in. |
Cargo Room | 33.5 cu.-ft. |
2023 Toyota Sienna Price And Availability
The 2023 Toyota Sienna is available now with seven trims offered. Pricing for the 2023 Sienna starts at $37,470 MSRP with the range topping out at $52,930 for the top-tier Platinum model. All-wheel drive is available for an upcharge on all models except the Woodland Edition, which comes standard with all-wheel drive and unlocks the Sienna’s full 3,500 towing capacity.
2023 Toyota Sienna Price
Trim | Price |
|---|---|
LE | $37,470 |
XLE | $42,780 |
XSE | $45,030 |
Woodland Edition | $48,280 |
25th Anniversary Edition | $48,755 |
Limited | $49,730 |
Platinum | $52,930 |
Safety
The 2023 Toyota Sienna earns a five-out-five-star rating from the NHTSA. Its overall frontal crash rating is 4/5 stars, dragged down by a 3/5 start rating for its front driver side crash rating. The Sienna earned a five-star rating in each side crash test, and was rated 4/5 stars for rollover risk. As standard, all models are equipped with forward emergency automatic braking, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic high beams, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. Automatic windshield wipers and a 360-degree camera are standard on Platinum models.
Main Competition
Buyers can’t really go wrong with any of the four main models — the Sienna, Carnival, Odyssey, and Pacifica — in the minivan market, but there are factors to consider in finding the best model for specific needs. The Sienna stands out with its hybrid-only powertrain, and its starting price of $37,470 is a staggering $15,000 cheaper than the entry-level Pacifica Hybrid (which has the advantage of offering up to 33 miles of all-electric driving). The Sienna is commands more than the $35,000 Carnival, but it offers more cargo and passenger space.
A notable downside of the Sienna is its middle seats aren’t removable, a feature offered by some of its rivals. It’s also the slowest of the group, but of course, it’s by far the most fuel efficient.
Ultimately, minivan shoppers should consider all four models in the class. The Sienna is certainly a strong player within its segment, but whether it’s the best choice is dependent on specific wants and needs.
FAQ
Q: When can I order 2023 Sienna?
The 2023 Toyota Sienna is available now.
Q: Is the 2023 Toyota Sienna electric?
The Sienna is a hybrid using either two or three electric motors paired to an internal combustion engine.
Q: How much horsepower does a 2023 Toyota Sienna have?
The 2023 Sienna is exclusively powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with either two or three electric motors to produce 245 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque
Q: Are all 2023 Toyota Siennas hybrids?
Yes, all 2023 Sienna models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motors.
Q: Why is Toyota Sienna so expensive?
The Toyota Sienna is among the more affordable options in the limited minivan segment. It's starting price is more than the 2023 Kia Carnival but about the same as the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica.