2015 Toyota Sienna: More Refined and Reliable as Always

The minivan sector may not be as strong as it once was, but that hasn’t stopped Toyota from fine-tuning its category representative. In fact, the 2015 Sienna has benefitted from several improvements—most notably in the passenger compartment—to make the vehicle more comfortable and versatile than ever.

Toyota claims that the vehicle’s handling and ride have also been enhanced, though concrete information on how this was achieved has been piecemeal at best. Apparently the platform was fine-tuned and made firmer, but that’s all we know about it. In terms of mechanics, the sole engine continues to be the 3.5-litre V6, which is paired with an automatic six-speed transmission. Some trims are available with all-wheel drive. In short, it looks as though Toyota made some minor tweaks to the ride and mechanics of what was already a balanced and reliable vehicle. We should point out that the Sienna is available as a seven- or eight-seater, depending on whether you choose captain’s seats or a conventional bench for the middle row.

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More noticeable changes were made to the interior. First, the quality of the materials has been taken up a notch. Since the previous version was criticized for the hard plastics on its dashboard, they’ve rectified the issue by adding more pliable plastics.

The innovations include the optional Driver Easy Speak system, which allows the driver to communicate with rear passengers by way of a microphone that connects to speakers in back. Until now, this system was only available on the Highlander. What is more, all models come with a drop-down mirror that lets the driver see what’s going on in the back of the vehicle without having to turn their head. It’s extremely practical and makes for a much safer ride.

The 2015 model also boasts a revamped and more modern dashboard. It features a 4.2-inch display between the indicator dials that shows information from the navigation system. You can also order a seven-inch touch screen to manage most of the minivan’s operations. And some trims also come with a Blu-Ray DVD player with a 16.4-inch split screen and wireless headphones to keep rear passengers entertained on longer trips.

To spice up the offer, more factory-standard equipment has been added and all trims now come with a rear back-up camera. On the XLE and Limited, the camera comes with a wide-angle lens. Bluetooth connectivity is also included on all trims.

With better soundproofing and a predictable ride, the Sienna is a family vehicle that people love for its versatility. While it isn’t the most exhilarating vehicle to drive, it nonetheless handles the way you’d expect it to. In all, seven trims are available, ranging from $30,350 to $45,000.