The term “minivan” was popularized in the 1980s when the Chrysler Corporation released a pair of models for Dodge and Plymouth. Those vehicles were instrumental in opening a fresh segment of people-mover models, designed mostly with families in mind.
Fast forward to today and the minivan is not what it used to be. Indeed, these models now share their platforms with midsize crossover utility vehicles, far removed from the diminutive vehicles of yesterday. Further, the market has changed, with Chrysler, Honda, Kia, and Toyota being the only manufacturers participating.
Speaking of the latter, we tested a 2025 Toyota Sienna, the only fully dedicated hybrid model in the mix. Notably, the Sienna shares its platform with the Toyota Highlander crossover, delivering a distinct difference with its sliding side doors.
Toyota Sienna Overview
For the current-generation Toyota Sienna, it is offered as a hybrid-only model. Toyota takes a similar approach with other models, including the Prius and Camry. Nearly every Toyota model offers a hybrid, but the Sienna is the first van where a gas-electric drivetrain is standard.
Toyota offers the 2025 Sienna in six grades and 12 configurations with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.
2025 Pricing Breakdown
The base model, the Sienna LE FWD Hybrid, starts at $39,185, while the LE AWD Hybrid is priced at $41,185. Moving up, the XLE FWD 7-Passenger Hybrid and XLE FWD 8-Passenger Hybrid are both available for $43,995, with the XLE AWD 7-Passenger Hybrid priced slightly higher at $45,995. The rugged Sienna Woodland Edition AWD Hybrid comes in at $50,425.
Sportier options include the Sienna XSE FWD Hybrid at $46,640 and the XSE AWD 7-Passenger Hybrid at $47,530. For those seeking more luxury, the Limited FWD 7-Passenger Hybrid is offered at $50,200, while the Limited AWD version is priced at $52,200. At the top of the range, the Platinum FWD 7-Passenger Hybrid costs $56,145, with the Platinum AWD variant priced at $56,905. Add $1,495 for the destination charge.
Sienna Styling
Minivans, like the Toyota Sienna, have specific characteristics compared to crossovers. The Sienna is lower to the ground, slightly wider, and features dual-sliding side rear doors for convenient access to the second and third rows.
The doors, of course, are the defining feature for all “mini” vans, and are what keep these models on the market. Quite frankly, there are enough families who simply prefer the design — and it is smart manufacturers who ensure that they have a reason to consider them.
The Toyota does an admirable job of delivering a stylish look with the Sienna. The recognizable smiley Toyota grille dominates the front fascia as it meets the falling hoodline. A recessed windshield maximizes the driver’s forward view. Sweeping lines, a high profile, and fashionable wheels dominate the profile. From the rear, a gigantic liftgate almost overpowers the fascia. Accent lights and sport embellishments complement the look.\
Roomy Interior
The Toyota Sienna seats up to eight, matching the Toyota Grand Highlander in passenger capacity. The best arrangement, in our opinion, is the seven-seat model where the middle-row bench seat is swapped out with captain’s chairs. No, we cannot say those chairs are as comfortable as the front thrones, but they are a vast improvement over the bench seat.
Is there something we don’t like? Yes, the second-row seats cannot be removed. They fold flat, but the ability to remove them as some competitors offer, is something you may miss.
Everything about the interior is geared toward passenger comfort. Most models include heated and ventilated front seats. A heated steering wheel is available. Moreover, an ample number of storage compartments are available – the treasure hunt is on as you explore where Toyota placed them.
The base Sienna offers gray woven fabric-trimmed seats with soft-touch materials covering upper sections of the cabin, and hard plastics underneath the dashboard. However, most trims come with imitation leather seating surfaces trademarked as SofTex. This leatherette material is breathable, therefore it is unusually comfortable. Further up the trim range you will find full leather seats.
Cargo and Towing
The 2025 Toyota Sienna offers versatile cargo capacities to accommodate various passenger and storage needs:
- Behind the third row: 33.5 cubic feet
- Behind the second row: 75.2 cubic feet
- With both rear rows folded: up to 101 cubic feet
If you need to tow, the Toyota Sienna pulls up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Honda Odyssey and Kia Carnival match the Toyota, while the Chrysler Pacifica adds 100 pounds to its capacity over its rivals. However, it should be noted that the Kia Carnival Hybrid pulls only 2,500 pounds or just 1,000 pounds without trailer brakes.
