There is only one minivan that recently earned the top ranking from U.S. News Rankings and Reviews for minivans – the 2012 Toyota Sienna.
Fresh off a full redesign for 2011, the 2012 Toyota Sienna (MSRP $25,060) features a number of enhancements focused on providing greater comfort, style, versatility and fuel efficiency, and it’s the only minivan on the market with available all-wheel drive. There are also a host of infotainment system upgrades in the Toyota Sienna to make backseat passengers think they’re at home in their own living rooms.
The 2012 Sienna is available in Sienna, LE, SE, XLE and Limited models and offers two engine choices: A 2.7-liter four-cylinder that generates 187 hp and a robust 3.5-liter V6 that not only turns out 266 hp (more than Honda Odyssey) through the front wheels, but also returns up to an impressive 25 mpg highway. Both engines are powered by the same silky-smooth, electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting.
Inside the Toyota Sienna are some of the most useful and innovative features to be found in the industry. Take for instance the Dual View Entertainment Center in the 2012 Sienna – a side-by-side display that can either be combined to make one 16.4-inch widescreen image or be split into two individual screens with separate video sources.
Available dual power-sliding moonroofs give the Sienna interior a feeling of ultimate airiness and space. High-quality soft-touch materials are used throughout, and optional leather upholstery with wood-grain trim makes the Sienna look and feel as rich as it is innovative, functional and versatile.
The Sienna can be configured for seven- or eight-passenger seating. In the second row, the available Tip Up and Long Slide feature allows for 23 inches of forward and back movement to accommodate even the tallest passengers. It also allows for one-touch, easy access to third-row seating.
The standard second-row Lounge Seating in Limited models might make you feel like you’re flying first class with reclining leather seats that feature extending leg and foot supports and a sliding center console with cupholders and space for a remote control.
When in use, the 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat still has enough room behind it for four large suitcases; when not in use, it can disappear into the floor with one motion. For maximum cargo capacity with the second-row seats removed, the Sienna delivers an incredible 150 cubic feet of cargo space, far more than the 108.4 cubic feet of space in the Nissan Quest.
All models are well equipped starting with the Sienna, which is outfitted with full power accessories, tri-zone climate control, front captains’ chairs, cruise control, remote keyless entry and three 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin. Opt for the V6 engine and standard features also include dual power-sliding doors and power rear door, eight-way power driver’s seat, multi-information display with back-up camera, rear window shades and an audio system with CD, MP3 and iPod capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth streaming music and hands-free phone and steering wheel controls.
Highlights of XLE equipment include leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a tilting and sliding moonroof and an optional 10-speaker JBL premium sound system with voice-controlled navigation. A Panorama Rear Camera makes safely backing up a breeze while the rear-seat Dual View Entertainment system keeps passengers entertained.
For a more sporting minivan experience, the Sienna SE features a lowered, sport-tuned suspension for better handling. The Sienna SE also looks the part with 19-inch alloy wheels, side skirts and smoked taillights. Inside, you’ll find a unique instrument cluster with SE-specific trim and colors.
For the ultimate minivan experience, the Limited goes all the way with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, independently powered, sliding dual moonroofs (a North American exclusive), second-row Lounge Seating and the power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat.
The Toyota-exclusive Star Safety System™ comes standard on all Sienna models and includes safety features like Anti-lock Braking, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution with Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control. Seven airbags come standard on all models including side-curtain airbags that run the entire length of the cabin.
In the event of an accident, the Toyota Safety Connect telematics system (standard on Limited, optional on XLE) automatically calls an emergency response center, and also includes features like Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assist and Roadside Assistance. These advanced safety features helped the 2012 Toyota Sienna earn the prestigious Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick” award.
Stop into our showroom today and discover why U.S. News ranked the 2012 Toyota Sienna number one out of eight minivans. And when you come, be sure to bring along the entire family.
