Toyota adds a touch of sports sedan to 2011 Sienna

Toyota engineers set out to build a new minivan that has the flair of a sport sedan along with the comfort and convenience of a family cruiser.

Introducing the new 2011 Sienna minivan.

Redesigned from top down, the 2011 Sienna builds on industry-leading qualities. It offers new entertainment system options, more interior room, a six-speed transmission and a sport version.

The 2011 was named "best value" by Intellichoice.com at the annual BOVY awards.

"The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota's commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers' needs and changes in lifestyle," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota. "The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many."

Under the Hood

Drivers can outfit their 2011 Sienna with an optional 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, which gets an EPA-estimated mileage of 19 city/26 highway. The 2011 Sienna delivers an impressive 187 horsepower.

For drivers who want even more power, Toyota offers a 266-horsepower, V6 engine with EPA-estimate mileage of 16 city/22 highway. Both engines are mated to Sienna's first six-speed transmission designed to give smooth shifting and quiet performance in a lightweight, compact size.

The Sienna has MacPherson struts on the front wheels. All-wheel drive is available in the LE, SE, XLE and Limited models.

Comfort and Convenience

Toyota engineers paid attention to small details that make the 2011 Sienna an enjoyable ride for passengers and drivers alike.

For instance, the cabin space is designed to provide ample personal space between two front seat occupants. The Sienna contains numerous storage bins, cup holders and cargo spaces strategically placed throughout the interior. A "conversation mirror" was integrated into the sunglass case in the overhead console, allowing visual contact with rear seat passengers. On eight-passenger models, the second-row seats offer added versatility and convenience. The second-row center seat can be removed and stowed in the left side of the rear-storage area.

Wider doors give the 2011 Sienna easy access to rear seating. A walk-in aisle is created by sliding the second-row seats all the way to the rear

An optional rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center uses two displays, side-by-side. The center creates a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. The system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources.

The standard climate control system includes three zones and cabin air filter.

Safety

The 2011 Sienna offers Toyota's long list of standard safety features including antilock brakes, enhanced stability control, traction control and brake assist. An optional pre-collision seatbelt system is available in the Limited edition.

Interior protection includes seven standard airbags, including seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger and curtain airbags for the length of the cabin.

An optional camera system provides a panoramic, 180-degree rear view to prevent back-up accidents and assist with parking in tight spots.