2006 Toyota Sienna Model Update

Options Galore

Toyota's gadget-laden Sienna gets even more equipment and revised styling for 2006.

Soon after Chrysler single-handedly invented the minivan in the early 1980s, the competition, including Toyota, suddenly found itself playing catch-up in what was then a burgeoning automotive segment. But Chrysler's once lofty market share has been shrinking steadily ever since, due in large part to such highly competitive vehicles as the Toyota Sienna.

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The current generation of the Sienna began in the 2004 model year. Available in CE, LE, XLE and XLE Limited trim levels, the Sienna receives a number of cosmetic and functional enhancements for 2006. All versions are graced by a revised front fascia, which includes an updated grille, new fog lamps, stylish "cat's eye" headlamps and new tail-lamp clusters. Power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, puddle lamps that illuminate the ground and driver-memory settings now come standard on top-of-the-line XLE Limited models.

Inside, front-seat-mounted side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all three rows of seats are now standard across the line. And all audio systems are compatible with MP3-encoded CDs and come with mini-jack ports for connecting iPods and other portable audio gear.

CE and LE models offer revised interior fabrics and silver dashboard trim. The XLE now comes with standard power driver and passenger seats and revised wood-grain dashboard accents. The power driver's seat on the Limited includes memory settings, and its wood trim is also updated. Finally, all versions (except the base model) come standard with backlit Optitron instrumentation.

A silky smooth 3.3-liter V6 engine produces 215 horsepower and is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission controlled by a space-saving dashboard-mounted shifter.  Fuel-consumption estimates for the Sienna are 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

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All versions but the base CE model can be fitted with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system for added traction and security in foul weather. Models equipped with AWD come with run-flat tires. Standard on the Limited and AWD versions (and optional elsewhere) is Vehicle Stability Control, which prevents the vehicle from spinning out of control during extreme handling maneuvers. Antilock power brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist come standard on all models. A tire-pressure monitor is also standard.

Available with either seven- or eight-passenger seating, the Sienna offers a comfortable, attractive and functional interior. A standard 60/40 split third-row bench seat folds flat into the floor — one or both segments at a time. A host of advanced features are available, some of which were previously seen only on high-end luxury cars. These include a rear-view video camera and front/rear parking proximity warnings to facilitate parallel parking, laser-guided adaptive cruise control, a satellite navigation system and surround-sound audio. For 2006, the optional rear-seat DVD entertainment screen has been increased from 7 inches to 9 inches.

The Sienna's price can quickly run well into the luxury-car range if you pile on the bells and whistles, especially since many are offered only in costly option packages.

Toyota and the Minivan Find out more on Toyota's brief history with the minivan in our Did You Know? section.