Minivans are slowly but surely becoming extinct. While some consider minivans the most ideal family vehicle, it is clear that more and more people are going the SUV way when it comes to family vehicles.
However, this has not stopped companies from building minivans. Toyota has added a new car to their minivan lineup. The newest addition to Toyota’s lineup is the 2021 Toyota Sienna. Toyota first unveiled the Sienna 23 years ago in August of 1997.
The Sienna is one of the many cars that Toyota has facilitated its manufacturing outside Japan. The Sienna is manufactured in Princeton, Indiana, at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Company. When the Toyota Sienna debuted, it replaced the Previa. Since then, Toyota has gone on to ensure that the Sienna was the benchmark for affordable minivans.
The Sienna’s popularity and notoriety can be attributed to the Swagger Wagon ads pushed by Toyota. The new generation Toyota Sienna is built to not only cater to the entire family but also save you money while doing it. To get a better understanding of what is new with the 2021 Toyota Sienna, here is everything we know about the 2021 Toyota Sienna.
Let's take a closer look at the new Toyota Sienna.
Platform
The 2021 Sienna is built on the TNGA-K platform. This is the same Toyota platform that the Highlander SUV is based on. This platform has not only contributed to showing the evolution of the Sienna over the years but has also contributed to the update in design.
The TNGA-K platform has seen the Sienna sit 1.5 inches lower compared to its predecessors. It has a forward instrumental panel which is very similar to that in the Highlander SUV. While these updates may seem to be a great addition, some clearly like this as they were before.
Sienna enthusiasts who prefer the previous model have been quoted saying that the grille is one of the ugliest parts of this car. The overhaul in physical transformation saw Toyota designers give it SUV proportions and a sportier stance. The design of the Sienna is built to ensure maximum functionality.
Toyota has added convenient sliding doors that open and close when you swipe your leg across. Sienna did this to ensure that when your hands are full with either groceries or if you are carrying your little one, you do not have to place them down to open the car.
Interior
While the looks of the 2021 Toyota Sienna seem to be bringing out mixed feelings. The interior is one that many appreciate. Toyota has ensured that while they are not using the best of the best materials, they have used quality materials for the upholstery, seats, and carpeting.
One element of the Sienna’s interior is the new bridge center console that extends all through the two front seats. Other additions to the 2021 Sienna include a large bin under the console and a large cubby on the dashboard.
Toyota has also made sure that there is enough legroom for everyone. They have provided enough legroom for adults in both second and third-row seats. The second-row seats are captain seats that offer maximum comfort. Some of the amazing features on the second-row seats include a long slide feature that all for a 25-inch slide to create more legroom. These seats also recline backward for a first-class airline-style effect. Toyota also added ottoman leg rests for maximum comfort.
Powertrain
With everyone going green, Toyota is following suit. They have, however, opted for a hybrid system and not a fully electric one. This has seen them ditch the traditional Sienna V6 engine for something more modern.
Under the hood of the 2021 Toyota Sienna is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. This engine is coupled with a small battery pack that is placed strategically under the front seat. This battery pack is mated with a couple of motors that generate more power and functionality.
This hybrid powertrain has a maximum power output capacity of 243 horsepower. One other unique thing about the Sienna is that it offers a 1,500-watt power inverter. This means that you can plug in a couple of household appliances into the car. These include a coffee pot, a small refrigerator, a slow cooker, and an electric saw.