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2008 Toyota Sienna CE Road Test

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Rob Rothwell
Maximizing Space and Comfort
Maximizing Space and Comfort

There's very little to dispute in asserting that minivans more so than any other automotive format utilize space efficiently; I can't think of any other layout that provides a greater ratio of cabin volume to exterior size. At 5,105 mm in length, the 2008 Sienna is 95 mm (approximately 4 inches) longer than Toyota's largest sedan, the Avalon. Yet the Sienna is cavernous inside unlike the Avalon, which seats five--but that's it. No third-row seat, no second-row captains' chairs and no room for storing coolers and other gear inside the vehicle where it can be accessed en-route.

The minivan has always been known for its versatility - with reason.

Once the stigma of minivan ownership has been excised from their psyche, prospective buyers will be amazed at what these kings of the plebian can offer. Although the SUV/crossover trend has significantly dented minivan sales - resulting in the loss of the Ford Freestar - many desirable, highly versatile units remain, the Sienna being a good example.

Sienna-sense unchanged for 2008
The Sienna is essentially unchanged for 2008, and that's not a bad thing. The current generation arrived as a 2004 model. Since then it has served its owners very reliably, providing them with plenty of comfort and practicality but not inspirational style.

It's hard to infuse the basic breadbox minivan shape with excitement and daring. Toyota's effort is just as good as anyone else's, and in some cases better. I won't describe the Sienna as stunning, sexy or even appealing. Like the majority in this segment, it's easy on the eyes but it'll never quicken a pulse despite ads depicting it four-wheel drifting across a desert floor. Cabin design and interior aesthetics are just more of the same banal, yet it's hard to criticize.

The instrument panel is well laid-out. Controls are logically placed and intuitive to operate, which isn't always the case these days. Visibility from the driver's perch is outstanding. In an ideal world, the driver would be afforded slightly more legroom. My lower extremities were fine with what's provided, but just barely. Longer-legged types might find the accommodations slightly undersized; especially, if like me, they like plenty of "stretch" room.

Many will appreciate the layout and simplicity of the controls.
Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert
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