The evolution of Toyota Sienna in the Generation 3 stage
From its origin in 1998 as the “Camry of Minivans,’ the Toyota Sienna has consistently fared well in the minivan segment over the last two decades. Over the years, the manufacturer has upgraded the styling as well as the engineering features and the latest generation of Toyota Sienna is the third generation which was launched as the XL 30 in 2010. Amongst its many positive features are high conformance to safety norms.
The Sienna XL 30 comes in five trim levels – the base grade, LE, XLE, Limited and SE Trim. Among the major feature changes is a style revamp with the new generation of Toyota Sienna looking for sportier and sleek in its design which includes 19-inch wheel, improved suspensions, and upgraded steering tuning. Toyota initially offered a four cylinder engine in the minivan model at the start of this generation for the first time since it discontinued the Previa in the late nineties. Later, in the 2013 model, the four cylinder engine was dropped.
Added features included an optional sliding second row with plush lounge-like recliner chair seats and larger LCD screens with both wide screen and split screen options for rear seat users. In the 2012 model, the Entune navigation system became a feature in the XL 30.
The 2015 models saw some minor design facelifts and also a few new color options.
The 180-degree panoramic view camera is an added safety feature, as is a driver’s knee airbag and advanced vehicle stability control system. An automatic high beam dimmer and a new pre-collision system are other enhanced safety features making the Toyota Sienna XL 30 touch close to 130,000 in sales in 2016. Its performance in crash test measures continues to be rated as “good.”
Significantly, Toyota is the only automobile manufacturer to provide an auto-access seat for the disabled which is also an optional feature in the /Toyota Sienna. The 2017 model of the Toyota Sienna features an eight- speed transmission with increased power of 296 hp and increased torque of 263 lb.ft. Another feature of the 2017 model is the inclusion of Toyota’s direct injection fuel system.