Minivans might not be the cool kids on the block anymore, but the 2025 Toyota Sienna proves they’re far from dead. With its hybrid power, spacious interior, and family-friendly features, this minivan delivers what crossovers can’t.
I took one for a spin during Monterey Car Week, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer. From sleeping in the back to cruising in style, here’s why the Sienna is still a top pick for families and adventurers alike.
Why Choose a Minivan Over an SUV?
Crossovers and SUVs dominate the roads, but minivans like the Sienna offer unmatched practicality. Need to haul eight people? No problem. Want to sleep comfortably during a road trip? The Sienna’s got you covered with space that SUVs can’t match. Minivan sales have dropped—down to 306,000 in 2023 from 1.3 million in 2000, per Wards Intelligence—but the Sienna proves this segment still has life.
Its low floor and sliding doors make loading kids, groceries, or gear a breeze. Plus, the hybrid powertrain saves you at the pump, unlike gas-guzzling SUVs. For families or anyone needing versatility, the Sienna is hard to beat.
2025 Toyota Sienna: Key Features and Specs
The 2025 Sienna is all-hybrid, pairing a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total of 245 horsepower. You can choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). It’s smooth, efficient, and EPA-rated at 36 mpg combined, perfect for long drives or daily commutes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Sienna’s standout features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid, 245 hp |
| Fuel Economy | 36 mpg combined (EPA) |
| Seating | Up to 8 passengers (depending on trim) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Tech | 9-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, radar-based seat reminder |
| Price | Starts at $39,485 (LE), up to $58,634 (Platinum) |
The Platinum trim I tested came loaded with a 12-speaker JBL audio system, a digital rearview mirror, and even a built-in vacuum and FridgeBox for snacks. It’s like a living room on wheels!
A Real-World Test: Sleeping in the Sienna
During Monterey Car Week, poor planning left me without a hotel. Solution? The Sienna. Its spacious interior let me stretch out comfortably—something no SUV could offer. The third-row seats fold flat, though the second-row seats don’t, so I wedged my legs between them. Still, it was cozy, quiet, and raccoon-proof (yes, I worried about that).
Parking unobtrusively in Carmel-by-the-Sea was a breeze. The Sienna blends in without screaming “minivan.” It’s practical, versatile, and perfect for road trips or impromptu camping.
Luxury and Tech That Impress
The 2025 Sienna’s interior is a step above. Updates for 2025 include refreshed color schemes and premium materials, especially in the Limited and Platinum trims. The Toyota Audio Multimedia System (9-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen) supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice commands (“Hey Toyota!”). The radar-based seat reminder ensures you never leave kids or pets behind.
Safety is top-notch with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitoring
The Platinum trim’s digital rearview mirror was a lifesaver for nighttime driving, offering a clear view even with a packed cargo area.
How Does the Sienna Stack Up Against Rivals?
The minivan market is small but competitive. Here’s how the Sienna compares:
- Chrysler Voyager: Starts at ~$39,000, slightly cheaper but less efficient with a 3.6L V6 (19 mpg combined).
- Honda Odyssey: Priced from $43,715, it offers a 3.5L V6 (280 hp) but only 22 mpg combined.
- Kia Carnival: Starts at $38,235, with a 1.6L turbo hybrid option (33 mpg) or a 3.5L V6 (21 mpg).
- Volkswagen ID.Buzz: A cool electric option starting at ~$60,000, with 231-234 miles of range but a higher price tag.
The Sienna’s hybrid efficiency and AWD option give it an edge for families prioritizing fuel savings and versatility.
Is the 2025 Toyota Sienna Worth It?
Starting at $39,485 for the LE trim, the Sienna offers incredible value. My Platinum model, priced at $58,634, felt like a luxury vehicle with its premium features and smooth ride. It’s practical, fuel-efficient, and packed with tech—perfect for families, road-trippers, or anyone who values space over SUV hype. Minivans may be fading, but the Sienna proves they’re still the ultimate family hauler.
FAQs About the 2025 Toyota Sienna
Q: What is the starting price of the 2025 Toyota Sienna?
A: The 2025 Sienna starts at $39,485 for the LE trim, before destination fees.
Q: Is the Toyota Sienna a hybrid?
A: Yes, all 2025 Sienna models are hybrids with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, delivering 245 hp and 36 mpg combined.
Q: How many people can the Sienna seat?
A: It seats up to eight passengers in the LE trim or seven in higher trims like the Platinum.
Q: Does the Sienna have all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, AWD is available across all trims, making it great for all-weather driving.
Q: How does the Sienna compare to the Kia Carnival?
A: The Sienna offers better fuel economy (36 mpg vs. 33 mpg for the Carnival’s hybrid) and AWD, while the Carnival has a lower starting price ($38,235).