There's an old saying that goes something like this: you can't know where you're going unless you know where you've been. While several famous people are credited as the source of this wise saying, one thing is for certain – the Toyota Sienna, also known as the Swagger Wagon, knows exactly where it came from. That’s why it's better than ever today!
Siennas of the past
The Toyota Sienna was introduced as the "Camry of minivans" for the 1998 model year and gained some early attention because it didn't have the egg shape of its predecessor, the Previa. It offered front-wheel drive, an easy-to-access interior like other minivans of the time and debuted with high crash test ratings.
The Sienna's look has changed a lot since 1998, the year it was first offered.
It took some time for the Sienna to become a true leader in the minivan market. Changes during those early years meant that the original 194-horsepower V6 engine was upgraded several times to offer more flexibility and a smoother driving experience. Over time, features were added like a right-side power sliding door, an antitheft system, remote entry, and daytime running lights. By 2007, the engine was 3.5-liters with 266 horsepower, making the Sienna more highway-friendly – finally, it was easy to use the passing lane when needed!
For the 2011 model year, the third-generation Sienna was introduced with a redesigned look that was considerably more stylish than previous generations: this version became known as the Swagger Wagon. Its side view included distinctive window shapes, a high and wide shoulder, and fender flares to help emphasize the wheels. A strong front design meant that headlamps were angled higher than the grille and a sculpted rear corner separated the Sienna from the rest of the minivan pack at a time when all competitors had a boxy look.
The 2011 Sienna boasted a sleek look that the previous models lacked – and that the current Sienna models emulate.
While the Swagger Wagon raised the bar for the minivan market in 2011, Toyota is always ready to innovate and improve. The fourth-generation Sienna combines even more of the features and functionality that make minivans popular – while working hard to pump up the swagger even more.
Today's redesigned 2021 Sienna
Here are just a few of our favorite features of the 2021 Sienna:
Substance meets style
Gone is the typical minivan look because the 2021 Sienna borrows its bold style from Toyota’s popular SUVs. In fact, if you're a person who appreciates details, you'll likely notice some style similarities between the Sienna and models like the Highlander.
Continuing beyond its exterior appearance, Sienna now offers some of the premium features that make SUVs so popular – without losing the practicality of a van. One of the most popular additions is the new optional foot-activated sliding side doors and rear gate that make using them a breeze, even when your hands are full. There are also plenty of tech upgrades and connectivity options that were not previously offered in Sienna, like the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, that now comes standard. Upgrades continued with the rear-seat entertainment center, which lets you connect your preferred device through the HDMI outlet and share media using the available WiFi.
Other premium features inspired by its SUV counterparts include a four-zone climate control system, heated second-row seats, a digital rear-view mirror, 10-inch color head-up display, and a 12-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system. Sienna is also now the only one in its segment to offer a power tilt and telescoping steering column with a heated steering wheel.
New features are always exciting, but what hasn't changed are the things you love, like Sienna's functionality and space. Although, there have been improvements here too.
Maximum space and comfort
Everyone knows minivans make it easy to cart friends and family around town, but having the right ride can also make or break your road trips! In the fourth generation, Sienna's interior layout takes a departure from the minivan norm – the result is unheard-of legroom and flexibility that maximizes comfort so that even large adults can relax.
The changes started by updating the console so that it's now ergonomically placed – high between you and your passenger, where it's easier to use. Now, the shifter, cup holders, and wireless chargers are all within easy reach from the driver's seat, and the changes resulted in more storage bins for smaller items and even a large area under the bridge for practical items like a purse or bag.
Space is the last thing you'll worry about with the Sienna's redesigned console.
When it comes to passengers, Sienna lets you pick between seven seats, available on some XLE models, as well as the XSE, Limited, and Platinum models, or the eight-seat version available on LE and some XLE models. You may want to consider the seven-seat models for maximum riding comfort, as they feature Super Long Slide second-row captain's chairs, which can slide 25 inches for more legroom. In the seven-seat Limited and Platinum FWD models, these Captain's chairs even come equipped with ottomans so that your passengers can ride in full relaxation mode!
Another update in seating and storage space is the third row, which now folds completely flat. It's also much easier to bring up the stow-and-go chairs, which only need eight pounds of pressure when you're ready to use them. Otherwise, keeping them folded gives you plenty of space for weekend DIY project supplies or even a blow-up mattress for camping.
If you're like most people, that last statement probably caught you off guard. "Camping in a minivan?" The 2021 Sienna is ready to complement your active lifestyle! We'll get to more of those details soon.
Powerful and eco-friendly
A common misconception about hybrids is that being eco-friendly results in a lack of power, but the 2021 Sienna combines the best of both worlds. For the first time, Sienna now offers a hybrid-only powertrain standard across all trims with an estimated 33 combined MPG fuel economy – and still provides 243 total horsepower, thanks to the Toyota Hybrid System II. The best part? You'll never need to recharge the hybrid battery pack because the hybrid system charges the battery as you drive. So, if the idea of needing plug access or an expensive battery charger has kept you away from hybrids in the past, you can rest easy knowing that the Sienna fits your lifestyle no matter where you park!
Get ready to pack your bags and head out, because the 2021 Sienna is a great camping vehicle.
Now, let's talk specifics: what can 243 total horsepower do? Sienna can tow up to 3,500 pounds, so whether you're carrying bikes for a weekend excursion or pulling a compact travel trailer to a family getaway, the optional tow hitch has you covered. Not to mention that Sienna is compatible with rooftop carriers or crossbars and offers an optional 1,500-watt inverter with 120V AC outlet to power your camping equipment when you arrive. For those not into camping, the inverter is a popular option for tailgating (because you can power items like a big-screen tv or a blender) and for road trips when you need to keep your passengers occupied with the likes of an X-box or PlayStation.
Toyota Limited Warranty
Like all Toyotas, the Sienna comes with the 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, which applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation.
Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. Additionally, the HV battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferrable across ownership.
Sienna: something for everyone
Whether you're looking for the perfect ride to master the highway on holiday weekends, an everyday option for carting the family around town, or a great complement to your active lifestyle, the 2021 Sienna has you covered. It’s why the model is known to help you “take on today.” To learn more, visit your local Toyota dealership.