2017 Toyota Sienna Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

For good reason, automotive journalists consider the 2017 Toyota Sienna to be a great family vehicle. Toyota’s popular minivan will impress many drivers with its comfortable ride and secure handling. Unlike some of its key competitors, the new Sienna can be equipped with all-wheel drive. You can also depend on it to provide outstanding passenger safety.

What’s new for 2017?

To boost the minivan’s performance, Toyota upgraded it with a more potent engine and a new transmission. No other notable changes were made this year.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Toyota Sienna – The Pros

1. Stronger Engine

The Toyota Sienna now comes equipped with a stronger V-6 engine. It now pushes out an impressive 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. When hauling your family around, the extra power gives the Sienna more motivation. You will have no trouble climbing hills and merging onto the freeway. It clocked a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds, which is quick for a minivan.

2. Satisfying Fuel Economy

In comparison to last year’s model, the new 2017 Toyota Sienna is a bit more efficient. The arrival of a new eight-speed transmission helped boost the minivan’s fuel economy. According to the EPA, drivers should be able to obtain 19 mpg in town and 27 mpg on the open highway. Regular unleaded gas is the recommended fuel.

3. All-Wheel Drive

Most Toyota Sienna buyers will be happy with the standard FWD system. On the other hand, the optional AWD system gives you better traction on snowy roads. The AWD model is a good alternative to an SUV. When traveling in bad weather, the AWD system automatically adjusts itself to provide the optimum amount of traction.

4. Balanced Handling

The new 2017 Sienna is one of today’s most agile minivans. You will feel secure even when traveling on a winding road. If you desire an especially fun driving experience, check out the sportier SE model. It comes standard with a performance-tuned suspension and a more responsive steering system. A set of low-profile tires further aid the SE model’s handling.

5. Looks More Stylish Than Past Models

In terms of styling, the new Toyota Sienna looks much more interesting than past generations. Its front fascia now has a very modern appearance. LED running lights come standard on the higher trim levels. A stylish rear spoiler makes it look even more appealing. Featuring a mesh grille and a body kit, the sporty SE model will be a popular choice among young drivers.

6. Well-Built and Reliable

Owners rave about the Sienna’s outstanding reliability. With the proper maintenance, you can expect it to last for a very long time. In fact, it is normal for this well-built minivan to deliver more than 250,000 miles of trouble-free ownership. The Toyota Sienna also has a high resale value, which will help owners to truly get their money’s worth.

7. Value-Packed Base Trim

If you don’t want to fork out any extra money, consider sticking with the base 2017 Toyota Sienna. It has a starting price of $30,600, which is quite reasonable for such a solid family vehicle. Some of the standard components include a touch-screen audio system, a tri-zone climate control system, and a media player interface. You will also benefit from a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

8. Family-Friendly Design

Your family will like riding aboard the 2017 Toyota Sienna. Its seats provide an impressive amount of comfort. Up to eight people will be able to tag along. The second-row seats can slide back to provide extra legroom. Several storage compartments are found throughout the cabin, which enables your family to keep their belongings secure. If you have a disabled family member, the powered Auto Access Seat will help.

9. Nice Options

To prevent drivers from straining their voice, Toyota offers a voice-amplifying Driver Easy Speak system. Featuring a wide-screen display, the rear-seat entertainment system is destined to intrigue children. Meanwhile, every music fan will love the JBL surround-sound audio system. Adaptive cruise control is a must for long trips on the highway. Some of the other worthy upgrades include smartphone integration and navigation.

10. Safe Family Hauler

The 2017 Toyota Sienna earned a five-star safety rating. Every model features a standard backup camera. Available an option, forward collision warning alerts you to potential obstacles in the road. Blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors are also offered.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Toyota Sienna – The Cons

1. Second-Row Seats Are Hard to Remove

Unlike some of its key competitors, the 2017 Sienna does not feature second-row seats that are easy to remove. This can be a major headache for the drivers who need additional storage space. On the other hand, the Chrysler Pacifica's innovative Stow 'N Go seating system enables you to quickly make room for extra cargo.

2. Some Modern Features Are Not Offered

While the 2017 Sienna is an outstanding minivan, it fails to offers some innovative features. Buyers will not be able to obtain advanced driving aids such as automatic braking technology. Hands-free sliding doors are also not on its list of options.

3. Rather Expensive Top Trim

If you desire the utmost luxury, be prepared to spend some extra money. The upscale 2017 Limited Premium trim approaches $50,000.

Conclusion:

Although the new 2017 Toyota Sienna may not offer the most features in the minivan segment, it still has a number of standout qualities. It's high degree of passenger comfort and powerful engine will attract plenty of buyers. The sporty SE trim is especially rewarding to drive. All-wheel drive also makes the 2017 model a good winter vehicle.