2010 Toyota Sienna Review

The 2010 Toyota Sienna presents one of the most intelligent choices for family transportation available. Minivans are not as popular as they once were, but maybe they should be. Spaciousness, safety, comfort and practicality all combine to offer an excellent owner experience. And the Sienna just happens to be arguably the best minivan overall on the planet. Its large size (201 x 77.4 x 68.9 l, w, h respectively) doesn't make it drive like a bulky SUV. It parks easily, rides smoothly and provides loads of responsiveness - all while maintaining a whisper-quiet operational profile. And, it is far more fuel efficient than are full-sized SUVs.

The 3.5L 24-valve DOHC VVT-iV6 engine of the Toyota Sienna acts in conjunction with a 5-speed ECT-i automatic transmission to generate 266 horses at 6200 rpm and 245 lb-ft of twisting torque at a relatively low 4700 rpm. EPA estimations for fuel economy are 17/23 mpg city/highway. The electronic Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI) system also contributes to achieving its emission rating as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV-II). It is available as either a front wheel or all wheel drive vehicle.

The standard seating configuration for eight full-grown adults can be switched within minutes to accommodate copious amounts of cargo, luggage, sports gear and more. Sheets of plywood, ladders up to 10 feet in length, surfboards and groceries enough to feed a kingdom will all fit inside easily. The Sienna for 2010 is also capable of pulling your campers and small watercraft up to 3500 pounds.

Four trim levels of the 2010 Sienna are available: CE, LE, XLE and LIMITED. Manufacturer's suggested retail pricing begins at $24,540 for CE trims and tops out at nearly $40,000 for loaded LIMITED versions. Competition is seen from the Chrysler Town and Country, the Ford Transit Connect and the Honda Odyssey. Frontal, side impact - and side curtain airbags in all three rows of seating are standard features. Other standard safety features include ABS and driveline electronic traction control, remote keyless entry, panic alarm, illuminated entry, brake assist, engine disabled, occupancy sensor, 2-staged door locks, tire pressure monitoring and more.

Unitized body, anti-vibration construction standards act in conjunction with frontal Macpherson struts, gas loaded shock absorbers and a torsion beam/coil spring rear suspension system to provide excellent ride quality. Power-assisted ABS ventilated disc brakes with the Toyota Brake Assist system make stopping effective and safe. In addition, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), electronic traction control (TRAC) and brake force distribution (EBD) systems complete the Toyota Star Safety System. 3-point pretensioning safety belts are featured in every seat as well.

The 2010 Toyota Sienna is a very smart choice for family based transportation. Spaciousness, comfort, safety and fuel efficiency combine to provide year after year of dependable performance. So, gather the spouse and the children and go for a test drive today.