The history of the minivan indicates that we may be gearing up for a big, mass return to the family haulers.  Think about it, a few years ago big SUV's were all the rage, and replaced the minivan in many families.  Well now, in the age of downsizing, fuel economy, and simplicity, SUV's are shrinking in size and families are stuck, again, with not enough seating for the whole brood.  Toyota recognized the timing is right for families to rekindle their love affair with the minivan, and more specifically, the Toyota Sienna.


This is the third generation of the Sienna.  It's been redesigned inside and out, and Toyota promises the new Sienna has been "reinvented with contemporary styling and a fun-to-drive spirit."  Toyota has even created a sporty SE model that looks the part, with bigger wheels, smoked taillights, a unique and angular front end and body kit, as well as a sport tuned suspension. 
In addition to the SE, other available models include the base (which is never very "basic" on a Sienna), LE, XLE, and Limited.  The power train options include a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 266 horsepower, and the 2.7-liter four-cylinder pumping 187 horsepower, both come with a six-speed automatic transmission.  Fuel economy (on the four cylinder) is rated at an impressive 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.


Seating configurations for either seven or eight passengers will be available. All models are equipped with cruise control, three-zone air conditioning, a power driver's seat, and remote keyless entry. They also include standard safety gizmos like ABS, stability control, and traction control. Opting for the V-6-equipped LE model will get you dual power-sliding rear doors, a power hatch, a backup camera, rear sunshades, XM satellite radio, a USB port with iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth with music-streaming capability.


The XLE adds leather seating with heated fronts, a sunroof, and an anti-theft system. Optional equipment on the XLE is a navigation system with a JBL 10-speaker sound system and a panorama rear camera, and a rear-seat entertainment system with a 16.4-inch widescreen display that can show two different programs side-by-side.


The top-level Limited model will feature luxurious second-row "Lounge Seating," offering pop-up leg support. Also included are power-folding third-row seats, parking sensors, dual sunroofs, HID headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a pre-collision system with radar cruise.

Don't miss out on the new 2011 Toyota Sienna schedule a test drive today by calling Preston Toyota in New Castle, PA at  (866)471-6173 or Toyota of Boardman in Boardman, OH at (866)491-7203, or check out our online inventory by click here.

Source: [caranddriver]