STYLING | 6 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Exterior styling is all-new and far less anonymous than before; we might even go so far as to call it attractive.
Car and Driver
Inside, the dashboard is functional without being utilitarian in the base models (Sienna, LE) and sophisticated without being congested on the higher-end models (XLE, Limited).
Los Angeles Times
The SE really stands out (below, middle) with a blacked out mesh grille, a front airdam, recontoured rear apron, rocker sill extensions, darkened chrome all around and clear taillight lenses. Although it's only been lowered a bit due to its stiffened coils and dampers, the SE's aero tweaks really emphasize its low, wide stance.
Autoblog
This is a minivan that actually had people saying, "Oooh, pretty!"
MotherProof
...Much of its previous blandness has given way to some rather interesting flourishes.
Motor Trend
The 2011 Sienna has new body panels with a more dynamic front end, but it's nothing to draw a flash mob or attract civil disobedience. A wide grille is framed either in body-color paint or in metallic trim; SE versions get a very aggressive front-end treatment. There's a sharper crease along its shoulders and geometrically bold windows, and as the lines taper rearward, the Sienna draws to a roofline that's similar to that on the Kia Sedona. The 2011 Sienna rides on the same chassis as the previous generation; while it's marginally shorter and wider than before, there's not a tremendous change in its proportions.
Inside, the Sienna has adopted the latest Toyota styling theme, with a dramatic arc separating driving controls from secondary and passenger-shared controls. The dash is styled to give the impression of more passenger space, and Toyota says slimmer seats and controls add to the feeling of roominess in the new Sienna. The interior looks less expensive than before, though. Plastic trim is replaced on some versions by matte wood-grain trim; pricier versions get Optitron gauges like those in some Lexus models.
Conclusion
It's admittedly a bit crisper, but the new Sienna can't escape its one-box looks.
