General Overview
Model Years: 2011 through 2020
Body Styles: 4-door minivan with three-row seating for up to 8 passengers (7 with available second-row captain’s chairs); rear power sliding doors and power liftgate available.
Drive Options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard; All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional (the only minivan of this era to offer AWD).
Engine & Transmission
One primary engine offered throughout, with a significant mid-cycle update:
- 3.5 L V6 (2011–2016): ~266 hp @ 6,200 rpm, 245 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm — paired with 6-speed automatic transmission.
- 3.5 L V6 (2017–2020): ~296 hp @ 6,600 rpm, 263 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm — with updated direct injection and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
(Note: No hybrid option offered during this generation.)
Dimensions & Weights
Wheelbase: Approx. 119.3 in
Overall Length: ~200.2–200.6 in
Width: ~78.1 in
Height: ~68.9–70.7 in (depending on roof rack and AWD/FWD)
Ground Clearance: ~6.5 in
Curb Weight:
- FWD models: ~4,275–4,505 lb depending on trim.
- AWD models: ~4,560–4,750 lb depending on trim.
GVWR: ~5,995–6,050 lb depending on drivetrain and options.
Towing & Payload
- 3.5 L V6 (all years): Rated to tow up to 3,500 lb with factory tow package (standard on most trims).
- Payload Capacity: Approximately 1,325–1,550 lb depending on drivetrain and equipment.
Fuel Economy
- 3.5 L V6 (2011–2016): ~19–21 mpg combined (18 city / 25 highway FWD; AWD slightly lower).
- 3.5 L V6 (2017–2020): ~20–22 mpg combined (19 city / 26 highway FWD; AWD slightly lower).
(AWD models typically reduce fuel economy by 1–2 mpg compared to FWD versions.)
Trims & Features
- L: Base model; seating for 7, 17″ wheels, manual sliding doors, basic cloth interior.
- LE: Adds power sliding doors, 8-passenger seating, roof rails, upgraded audio system.
- SE: Sport-tuned suspension, 19″ alloy wheels, unique exterior and interior styling, firmer ride, leather seating (optional).
- XLE: Power liftgate, leather seats, moonroof, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats.
- Limited: Premium audio, ventilated front seats, dual sunroofs, power third-row seating, advanced safety features.
- Limited Premium (2018–2020): Rear-seat entertainment system, premium JBL audio, navigation.
(Specific features varied by year and package.)
Suspension & Handling
- Front: Independent MacPherson strut.
- Rear: Torsion beam (FWD); Independent double-wishbone (AWD).
SE trim featured sport-tuned suspension for improved handling feel; otherwise tuned for comfort and family usability.
Tires & Wheels
- L / LE / XLE / Limited: 17″ or 18″ alloy wheels (depending on trim); P235/60R17 or P235/55R18 tires.
- SE: 19″ alloy wheels; P235/50R19 performance-oriented tires.
Notable Owner Insights
- Owners praise the V6 for smooth power delivery and quiet highway cruising; post-2017 models benefit from improved power and economy.
- AWD system unique among minivans of this era; provides extra stability in snow/rain but reduces interior space slightly due to the drivetrain layout.
- SE trim preferred by those seeking firmer handling and sportier appearance; XLE and Limited trims valued for luxury touches and technology.
- Third-row seats fold flat into the floor; second-row seats are removable but heavy and cumbersome.
- Towing capability of 3,500 lb widely regarded as useful for small trailers or boats.
Summary
From 2011 to 2020, the Toyota Sienna remained one of the most versatile and family-friendly minivans on the market, offering standard V6 power, optional AWD, and a range of trims from practical base models to luxury-oriented Limited editions. The 2017 powertrain update provided additional horsepower, torque, and efficiency improvements. The Sienna’s unique AWD availability made it a standout choice for drivers in snowy regions, while its spacious interior, solid towing capacity, and long-standing Toyota reliability contributed to its reputation as a durable and capable family vehicle.
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