2011 Toyota Sienna Preview
Critical Knowledge:- All-new redesign for 2011
- 266-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine
- Available new 187-hp, 2.7-liter, inline 4-cylinder engine
- Front- or all-wheel drive (FWD or AWD)
- Standard 6-speed automatic transmission
- Five different models
- Up to 8-passenger seating configurations
- New SE model tuned for a sporty ride
- Available Dual View Entertainment Center with 16.4-inch widescreen image
- Available Panorama Camera rear monitor
- Available Pre-Collision System
- In showrooms February 2010
Toyota introduced its first minivan in 1984. It was a significant year in the history of the minivan; automakers were still attempting to perfect the new family-oriented class of vehicle. Ford and General Motors were promoting truck-like rear-wheel-drive vans, while Chrysler had just introduced the Plymouth Voyager lineup with its unique front-wheel-drive platform. In a markedly different move, Toyota mounted the engine in its van, the Previa, in the middle of the chassis. Although this design improved handling, it lent to very unconventional styling and, with only a 4-cylinder engine, many considered the van to be underpowered. The second-generation Toyota Previa, arriving in 1990, followed its predecessor's mid-engine configuration, but added an AWD powertrain and a supercharger to boost power (a 6-cylinder engine simply would not fit).
In 1998, Toyota switched to a conventional front-engine, front-wheel-drive platform with the introduction of the Sienna. Sharing platforms with the Camry sedan, the Sienna was still smaller than the competition's offerings, but it offered V-6 power for the first time. The second-generation Sienna arrived in 2004. Still built on a modified Camry platform, the Sienna was now "full size," holding up to 8 passengers and able to compete directly with offerings from Honda, GM and Chrysler. In addition to standard V-6 power and available AWD, the Sienna could be optioned with a flat-folding third row, retractable side windows, and voice-activated navigation.
The 2011 Toyota Sienna is the all-new third-generation model. Completely redesigned, it is decidedly more modern and advanced in appearance, with a sporty profile and distinctive windows, says the automaker. According to Toyota, the new Sienna features a low drag coefficient of .306 (impressive for a minivan) contributing to low cabin noise and improved fuel economy. The Sienna is offered with front- or all-wheel drive and a choice between 4- or 6-cylinder engines. With five available trim levels, including a sporty SE model for the first time, the 2011 Sienna is scheduled to arrive in dealer showrooms during February 2010.
For More Information:
Page 1 of 3
Post a Comment