Not too long ago I tested the 2010 Lexus LS600h L and concluded that I would almost rather be the passenger in this vehicle

Top-line Sienna XLE has the regular profile of a minivan, but details give it a classier edge. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press)

than the driver. That’s a pretty bold statement on my end since I prefer doing most of the driving in my family. And up until now, the LS was probably the only car on my “to be driven in list,” however, I might consider adding the 2011 Toyota Sienna XLE minivan to that list as well. Say what? The two vehicles are completely different in most ways, but they do share a common thread; and it involves the rear seats!

Before I delve into the rear seat awesomeness, there are a few items of business to take care of, one being that the 2011 Sienna is completely redesigned from the inside out. From the outside, the more mature and up-to-date minivan sports low profile rocker moldings, sculpted wheel flares, fog lights up front and redesigned combination LED lamps in the rear. Furthermore, it comes with a newly designed set of 18” rims wrapped with P235/55R18 all-season tires in XLE trim, as was my test vehicle. Overall, I think the Sienna looks more appealing than the previous generation and therefore is easy on the eyes – well, as easy as “easy on the eyes” can be for a 7-passenger minivan.

One complaint I made about the previous generation Sienna was its outdated interior styling. Well, I can kiss that qualm goodbye. The 2011 model’s revamped cabin is quite charming and the multi-toned dash adds depth and character to a once dull-looking interior. While the plastics used on the dash aren’t as soft as some competitors, it still looks good. Then again, I don’t fondle the dash all that often so it’s a non-issue for me, but just the same it’s something worth pointing out.
 
Along

New tail end is familiar, but more crossover-like than before. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press)

with the Sienna’s new interior design come some great features. First is the integration of the backup camera. This is a particularly handy feature since this minivan is not so mini. Even though it doesn’t feel like a beast to drive and its overall length was decreased by 20 mm for 2011, it’s still a decent sized vehicle and takes up its fair share of road space. Backing up and parallel parking in the XLE was made so much easier with this function. Thank goodness for that. Other features on the Sienna that made life easy included a USB audio input jack, Bluetooth, a power moonroof, power windows with auto up/down for front and second row occupants, and power dual sliding rear doors with keyless entry.
 
To

A visually stimulating, fully featured and highly effective cockpit. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press)

keep the driver in a “green” frame of mind when putting the engine’s 266 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque to the test, a new Eco Indicator has been added. It’s easy to get the 24-valve, DOHC, 3.5L V6 revved up, and the 6-speed automatic transmission makes easy shifts and plenty of them to keep the engine in its sweet spot, but it’s also nice to know that when the revs are lower you’re saving fuel. And on the fuel note, the Sienna uses an estimated 11.5L/100km in the city and 8.1L/100km on the highway. Those results aren’t too bad for a vehicle of its size.
 
And now for my favourite part: the second row lounge seating. Yes, you heard me right! Lounge seating!

Is this a limo or a minivan? (Photo: Canadian Auto Press)

Talk about spoiling the passengers in back. These are very similar to the driver and front passenger’s seats only they’re better. How unfair! The second row seats in the Sienna XLE now have a tip-up function with an extended long slide function, meaning, someone of my size (average for a female) can push the seat all the way back, recline it and still not touch the front seats with their feet when the La-Z-Boy-style “ottoman” is extended. Now that’s what I call a good time on a long road trip. Even with the seat pushed all the way back, those sitting in the third row still have a generous amount of space. Now, if the third row isn’t being occupied, it is super easy to tuck away into the floor since the Sienna comes with the new one-touch manual third row folding and stow function. Folding the split seats up is just as easy as tumbling them down, and it didn’t break my back.
 
As much as I would have enjoyed being driven around in the Sienna, in the second row reclining seats, of course, I did enjoy my time behind the wheel. I mentioned above that it’s a rather large vehicle, but it doesn’t necessarily feel like it when driving. I’m a fan of the electric power steering because it’s just so easy to turn the wheel. I’m also a fan of the Sienna’s front independent and rear torsion beam suspension, which made my everyday driving smooth and agreeable yet responsive when called upon.
 
When

Cargo carrying is first rate. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press)

it comes to pricing, the XLE trim of Sienna has an MSRP of $38,700 ($40,190 including the $1,490 freight and delivery charge). For those who might not be looking for a minivan as equipped as this, the base, 4-cylinder Sienna has an MSRP of $28,900 (excluding delivery charges).
 
I’m glad I had the chance to spend some quality time with the 2011 Toyota Sienna XLE. Although I’m not totally ready to admit that I’m in the ‘minivan’ phase of my life, this vehicle is definitely helping me warm up to the reality of that second stage of married life. Besides, did I mention the second row seats?

Interior

Exterior

Mechanical

Safety

Dimensions

Misc