Toyota has officially unveiled the next generation Sienna Minivan during a media conference at the Los Angeles auto show. Toyota has packed the new generation Sienna with all that it needs to rule the segment. It will be not only be designed to carry more cargo efficiently and comfortably, but Toyota has also worked on the driving comfort. The new Sienna will be a delightful package for the car lovers as it gets new driving dynamics that give it a ‘fun to drive’ image. Sienna will now boast of features that have not been seen before in a minivan and redefines the segment with the flexibility and spaciousness, along with a stronger profile. The vehicle was designed at the Calty Design Research, developed at the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, and then assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

“The all-new Sienna is an example of Toyota’s commitment to lead the marketplace as it anticipates consumers’ needs and changes in lifestyle,” said Bob Carter, general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.

Engine options include a 3.5-liter V6 DOHC engine making 266 hp at 6,200 rpm and expected to deliver fuel efficiency of 18 mpg for city/ 24 mpg for highway. Also offered is a 2.7-liter V6 DOHC engine making 187 hp at 5,800 rpm and the expected fuel efficiency stands at 19 mpg for city/ 26 mpg for highway. The engines gets mated with new six-speed transmissions that is electronically controlled and features sequential shift providing smooth gear-shift feeling and comfortable drive. Another impressive feature is the Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) technology and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that adjusts the air-intake to provide more torque on demand.

The Sienna will come in the form of five distinct models namely Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. The different models get customized and suited for a wide range of purposes according to the customer requirements. The Sienna and LE grades are the base models with standard features while the Limited version is the top of the line model meant for more additional features and luxury. The SE grade is the newest of the lot and is designed for the customers demanding a sportier design with responsive performance. The LE, XLE and Limited models come with all-wheel drive option. The vehicle is capable of seating seven- or eight-passenger seating. Toyota has studied the need of customers in this segment and have come with innovative solutions suiting different types of customers. The five models are expected to satisfy all kinds of people. With a lot of expectations tied to it, the mini van is expected to reach the Toyota dealerships by February 2010.