Today there aren’t as many minivans remaining on the market as there once were.  Still, the latest models offer car-like handling, feature advanced technologies, and feature the best safety equipment. Minivans may be a smarter choice for you than a crossover because they have more seats and cargo capacity. Purchasing a reliable used model is an excellent option for the budget-conscious buyer. When looking for a reliable, used minivan, the Toyota Sienna is one you shouldn’t ignore. 

The Toyota Sienna Is the Most Reliable Used Minivan You Shouldn’t Ignore

Overall the minivan category is a reliable one. The segment’s reliability rating is 3.5 out of 5. Minivan reliability consideration should take into account annual repair cost and repair shop visits that require significant repair. The estimated annual maintenance bill for Toyota Sienna is around $550. 

There are many safety features that enhance its reliability. Toyota has also fitted the Sienna with a pre-collision feature, brake assistance, audio, and visual alerts. Other standard features include lane departure alert and automatic high beams. The NHTSA gave the five-star ranking to Sienna.

J.D. Power rated the 2020 Toyota Sienna with an excellent predicted reliability rating of four out of five. Toyota covers the Sienna with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Older models have also received excellent reliability ratings.  

Year by year

Previous years received several upgrades each year to enhance this minivan. The V6 engine became standard in 2013, and Toyota revamped the 2015 model with updated interior materials and a retuned suspension. 

The brand specific infotainment system, Entune, also became standard for the 2015 model year. The 2017 Sienna received a more reliable V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the 2018 model also offered additional standard features, including GPS, app connectivity, and a range of safety features. Toyota equipped the Sienna with standard Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa for 2019. 

The added safety features of the 2018 Sienna make the car an attractive choice as a family minivan, and the 2017 model powertrain changes make it a more robust option than the older Siennas. However, you could save a lot of money by buying an older model instead.

The only minivan that is all-wheel drive capable

In the minivan segment, all-wheel drive was once a standard option. There is only one minivan model available today, the Toyota Sienna.

It comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. When you buy a front-wheel-drive Sienna, you will see 19 miles a gallon in the city and 26 miles a gallon on the highway. The all-wheel-drive model achieves 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles on the highway.

You’ll get luxury features as well

With the introduction of SUVs, automakers began increasing the value of minivans with more luxury features. You can now purchase a minivan with luxurious features like leather seating, all the high-tech equipment you may like, and heated and cooled floors. Toyota Sienna Limited Premium is one of the market’s most luxurious minivans.

Toyota fitted this Sienna trim level with premium leather seats, wood accents, and dual moonroofs. It also includes a heated steering wheel and power-operated third-row seating.

The Toyota Sienna is a reliable, safe, and comfortable vehicle to drive. If you live in a part of the country facing extreme weather conditions and need the passenger space a minivan offers, you might want to take a closer look at Toyota Sienna.