L.A. Auto Show: Third-Generation Sienna Aims for Cool

Dec 02 2009 by Lori Hindman

We’ve heard it said that the minivan is the automotive equivalent of sweatpants, but Toyota is giving style and excitement a shot with their all-new, third-generation Sienna for the 2011 model year. They’ve reworked the entire vehicle, with a new sculpted body; tighter, sportier suspension; and an interior that rivals my living room for space, comfort and technology.

The second-row captain’s chairs are an exciting new feature. Because Toyota knows that our time in the car isn’t always spent driving, they made the second-row seats function like a recliner. The seats recline to an almost–flat position, and a footrest pops out to cradle your tootsies, too. This seems perfect for snatching a few winks while waiting in the carpool lane or outside ballet class. When I tried it out, it seemed cool but kinda gimmicky; who wants to recline into a pile of Goldfish crumbs?

The second-row seats now have an extended range when sliding backward and forward. This makes for easier access to the third row, which is still a 40/60 split but now folds at the touch of a button.

The feature that really caught my attention is the double-wide video screen that can show either two shows simultaneously or one show in wide-screen format.  Imagine this: The tween can play a game on the Xbox while the preschooler watches “Dora.” Everybody is happy, including Mom who can listen to her own music up front. What? Interact with your kids? How 2009!