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Toyota Vehicles : All-New Third-Generation Toyota Sienna Makes World Debut / Toyota
LOS ANGELES (Dec. 2, 2009) – Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Sienna minivan at a media conference today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show.
The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The third-generation Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads.
The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. With state-of the art features and rewarding driving dynamics, it is a vehicle that car-lovers will find satisfying to drive. Sienna will offer new models, including a sporty SE and a four-cylinder powertrain, as it continues to be the only offering in the segment with an all-wheel-drive option.
“The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota’s commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers’ needs and changes in lifestyle,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment.
The Sienna was designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.
Visually Intriguing
The Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. The third-generation Sienna explores a more modernly advanced and bold design. The sportier profile is complemented with distinctive window shapes. Working closely with engineering, Sienna designers were able to create a high and wide shoulder to embed a deliberately hidden door slider within the window graphic.
The strong high shoulder and distinct fender flares visually emphasize the wheels. Dimensionally, the new Sienna rides on the same wheelbase as the prior generation, but it is wider and slightly shorter overall.
In the front is a bold face design. Sophisticated headlamps angled higher than the grille lends a confident front presence. The sculptural rear corner separates the Sienna from boxy minivans as it surrounds the functional yet elegant LED taillights.
The interior features upscale quality and elegance, yet every element are logical and functional. The distinctive swept shape of the IP creates the perception of increased personal space for both driver and passenger. Careful attention to the details adds extra value to each component. Sleek seat designs add flexibility and roominess while central climate and audio controls are integrated into a single graphic element.
Overall, the new Sienna has a sportier, classier appearance. A Cd of 0.306 is the result of careful design work and is a contributing factor in maintaining a quiet cabin and providing excellent fuel economy.
Power, Plus Efficiency
A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand.
The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Both engines are matched with state-of-the-art, electronically controlled six-speed transmissions with sequential shift that provide smooth gear-shift feeling, quiet performance and a lightweight, compact size.
The suspension uses front MacPherson struts, combined with rack-and pinion steering for smooth, linear steering feel. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) delivers a more solid direct on-road feel. With a wider stance, the new Sienna has a more direct steering feel. Under-body aero parts also contribute to dynamic performance.
Models and Features
The Sienna will come in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available with the V6 on LE, XLE and Limited models.
With five distinct model choices, the new Sienna can be tailored to a wide range of purposes and pocketbooks. The Sienna can be configured with seven- or eight-passenger seating, in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, with a range of prices and features to accommodate different mixes of practical needs and high aspirations.
The Sienna and LE grades are available with either the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or the 3.5-liter V6. The value-driven Sienna grade and popular LE are equipped with an array of standard features that include: cruise control, Daytime Running Lights with manual on/off feature, tri-zone air conditioning, six- or eight-way-adjustable driver’s captain’s chair, power windows with auto up/down and jam protection, AM/FM CD player with four speakers, XM compatibility, auxiliary jack, power door locks, remote keyless entry, and three 12V outlets, among other amenities. The Star Safety SystemTM, which includes Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Traction Control (TRAC), is standard on all models.
The LE V6 model is upgraded with even more features including dual power-sliding doors and power rear door, a power driver seat with power lumbar support, electrochromatic rearview mirror with Homelink™, backup camera, rear window sunshades, AM/FM/MP3 CD player, integrated XM® satellite radio (subscription required), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology, and steering wheel audio controls. These features can be added to the four-cylinder model as a package.
The XLE builds on the LE, adding features such as leather-trimmed seats, moonroof, and an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, and heated front seats. Select optional XLE equipment includes a 10-speaker JBL® premium sound system with voice-activated DVD Navigation and Panorama rear camera with integrated back-up guides, XM® NavTraffic (subscription required), rear-seat Dual View Entertainment system, and an auxiliary audio jack and USB port with iPod® connectivity.
The Limited is designed for customers who want all the features with more luxury. The standard equipment list is extensive, including new second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, dual moonroof, Smart Key, and Safety Connect™. Select options include those available on the XLE plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
New Sporty SE
Given its upgraded engineering, every Sienna will ride well and track cleanly through corners, but none more so than the newest addition to the line: the sporty SE.
The SE is designed for those who appreciate an even sportier design with responsive performance. The front has a more aggressive appearance and the side skirting visually lowers the vehicle. Aerodynamic sculpting hugs the standard 19-inch alloy wheels, which are specially tuned for sportier handling. Separating the SE further from other grades, the smoked tail lamps create a visually prominent statement. The SE sits lower, on a sport-tuned suspension for quicker feedback and better handling. Additionally, the SE is built with exclusive instrumentation and unique interior colors and trim.