2012 Toyota Sienna Review
Introduced in 1998, the Toyota Sienna quickly became the default choice for a spacious and comfortable minivan. The first generation Toyota Sienna was smaller compared to other American minivans but the second generation model (which was released in 2004) was redesigned to match the interior and cargo space of competing minivans.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 Toyota Sienna is a solid pick for a spacious, reliable, and comfortable minivan. The powerful 3.5-liter V6 provides thrilling performance, but the base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder is adequate for the job. If you still prefer a minivan over a crossover vehicle, then it is hard to go wrong with the Toyota Sienna.
What’s New For 2012:
The XLE trim of the 2012 Toyota Sienna gets more standard features such as automatic headlights and power-operated front passenger seats.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Toyota name is known worldwide for reliability. Models that were produced between 2005 and 2009 had no problems with major vehicle components such as the engine, transmission, suspension, and driveline system. You can expect the 2012 Toyota Sienna to provide many miles of problem-free and enjoyable driving.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The 2012 Toyota Sienna was awarded 4 out of 5 stars in overall vehicle safety by the NHTSA. It was also included in the IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012, garnering the highest score of ‘Good’ in front-offset, side impact, and roof strength tests. The 2012 Toyota Sienna is equipped with advanced safety features including stability control, traction control, driver side knee airbag, antilock brakes, front-side/side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats, and active head restraints for the front seats.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful V6 engine
+ Seating for seven to eight passengers
+ Smooth and quiet ride
Cons
– Options can get pricey
– Cheap looking cabin
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Kia Sedona costs over a hundred dollars less than the Toyota Sienna but the aging platform is just too hard to ignore. The Honda Odyssey costs a few thousand more but its V6 engine has 18 horsepower less than the V6 engine of the Toyota Sienna. The base 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder engine of the Toyota Sienna can return 19/24 MPG, while the burly V6 can return 18/25 MPG.
What Others Are Saying:
"In typical minivan fashion, Sienna retains the typical low-slung look that announces its easy access level for people or packages. But a revised front grille design sweeps back through headlamp fixtures for a more energetic flow of motion."- RoadandTravel.com
"The 2012 Toyota sienna minivan is a pretty big people-mover with cool and innovative features." – KBB.com
"The 2012 Toyota Sienna’s ride quality is plush, and handling is competent in all versions."- Edmunds.com
Read more about the 2012 Toyota Sienna at the Toyota manufacturer website.
