Test Driving The 2025 Toyota Sienna Minivan

30 Oct 2024 by Karl Brauer · Forbes

The 2025 Toyota Sienna benefits from several technology and feature upgradesToyota

The minivan remains a viable choice for today’s car-buying consumer, and the 2025 Toyota Sienna minivan is proof these vehicles deserve a spot in the automotive marketplace. Now into its fifth year of the current generation, the 2025 Toyota Sienna benefits from a host of technology upgrades and new family-friendly features. These are in addition to the van’s standard hybrid drivetrain that nets up to 36 mpg, along with the optional all-wheel-drive system that enhances the Sienna’s all-weather capabilities.

With a starting price of $40,635 the Sienna requires a financial commitment on par with larger, three-row SUVs. But its square shape and high roof outguns all but the largest sport utility vehicles, offering over 100 cubic feet of interior volume behind the first row. The base Sienna LE front-wheel-drive trim provides seating for 8, radar cruise control, three-zone automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7 USB ports and 18 cupholders. The standard hybrid drivetrain offers 245 horsepower and over 250 pound-feet of torque.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna features a new digital gauge cluster and 12.3-inch central touchscreenToyota

New items for 2025 include an industry-first cabin radar system that can detect movement within the van and alert drivers. The system is completely hidden from view but can detect small movements, from an infant or pet, letting owners know someone/something has bee left behind. This technology is standard on all trims, but additional new features like a vacuum cleaner, center console chiller/freezer, and new 18-inch wheels are reserved for the top-grade Platinum trim ($57,595). New head-up display technology is standard on the Platinum and Limited ($51,875) trims.

The Sienna's second row is available with a bench seat or two captain's chairsToyota

Additional tech upgrades, like a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 12.3-inch central touchscreen, give the latest Sienna a more advanced look from the front seats, while rear passengers can enjoy a high-definition 11.6-inch display that folds down from the roof. The rear screen is optional on mid-grade and above Siennas, with the new digital gauge cluster standard on XSE ($48,090) and above trims. The 12.3-inch central touchscreen, featuring Toyota’s latest user interface design and voice command, is included on XLE trims ($45,445) and above.

A new-for-2025 center console chiller can keep drinks cold or ice cream frozenToyota

Driving the Toyota Sienna reminds you why cars drive better than SUVs. The van’s low center of gravity and shorter-travel suspension are tuned for maximum comfort and control on pavement. This vehicle doesn’t have to pretend it will go off road (just much like most SUVs...) and it’s reflected in the Sienna’s secure, stable handling and comfortable ride. Now consider the large, sliding side doors and low step-in height, and it’s clear why minivans are so popular with families, elderly...and anyone honestly assessing their passenger needs and driving environment.

The boxy shape and low ride height make minivans far better than SUVs for people and cargo haulingToyota

Minivans used to be offered by nearly every mainstream automaker, but we’re down to handful today. Thankfully, the survivors continue to find enough buyers to keep their business cases alive. These latest upgrades suggest Toyota is committed to the Sienna’s survival. If you’ve got a lot of humans and/or things to move around on a regular basis, and the self confidence to honestly assess your driving needs, the 2025 Toyota Sienna makes for a far better people/cargo hauler than pretty much any SUV.