Toyota's fuel-efficient hybrid minivan can be cooler than you think, if you choose the right version. First introduced in 1997, the Toyota Sienna minivan is currently in its fourth generation. Toyota has kept its most practical family hauler up to date with yearly changes rather than any major facelifts. The 2026 Sienna sees minor feature updates that improve quality of life for owners, especially at the lower end of the trim structure. Toyota offers six versions, and we can help you decide which one is best for your family.
We think the sporty XSE trim offers the best bang for your buck, sitting squarely in the middle of the Sienna's trim walk. This version has appearance upgrades including 20-inch, black rocker panels, and a black mesh grille. Inside, the XSE features faux black and blue leather with either red stitching or black and white stitching. These are sporty combinations that an automaker wouldn’t dare put in a minivan 20 years ago. That cooler look isn’t just for show, because the XSE also gets a sportier suspension tune.
View Price on AmazonThe XSE delivers the right amount of features within the Sienna lineup. It gets power-adjustable heated front seats, second-row sliding captain’s chairs, a 12-speaker JBL premium stereo, a power liftgate, four-zone automatic climate control, a wireless phone charger, and a digital gauge cluster. If you follow our advice and get the Sienna XSE, there are only two options to consider: all-wheel drive and an entertainment package. Every Sienna is a hybrid, and most trims come standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available for $890, but the Woodland Edition and Platinum get it standard. Toyota’s hybrid system produces 245 horsepower while netting an impressive 36 mpg with FWD. Opting for AWD only hurts the fuel economy by one MPG.
As for the $1415 Entertainment Package, it’s a drop-down screen mounted on the headliner that requires an HDMI port, not dual screens with internet connectivity like you can get in some competitors. We say skip this option. A digital rearview mirror is available as a $200 option, and makes it easier to see out of the back when there are kids sitting in the third row.
There are a few notable options on the higher Sienna trims that may cause you to upgrade to a more expensive model than the XSE. The Limited trim costs $53,600 and adds real leather, ventilated front seats, and extendable ottomans for the second-row seats. For buyers who want to spoil their families, the Platinum trim offers the most standard equipment for $60,305. This loaded trim includes a head-up display, a 360-degree camera, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, a built-in vacuum, and a cooler.
Source: caranddriver.com
