Toyota Sienna Used Buying Guide
A used Toyota Sienna is a great option for those who want a choice of drivetrains, but still want something reliable for the family. Coming with some great features and safety, with the recent years being hybrids, this vehicle is a must-have. We’ll take a look at how this vehicle transformed over the years to make sure you get what you’re looking for.
Key Takeaways:
- If you want the best mileage, then you’ll need something from this fourth generation, as they are all hybrids.
- Despite being a family vehicle, it can tow 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, giving it some muscle.
- If you're wanting something from the third generation, we recommend something after 2018, as these models will come with more safety features.
- The best year for a used Toyota Sienna would be 2021, as it comes with some discontinued features on the Platinum trim.
Fourth Generation (2021-Present)
When this generation came out, it featured some returning trims. These trims are the LE, XLE, and Limited, but two new trims have also been added. The new trims are the XSE and the Platinum. For those who want the best features, the Platinum is a must, but if you’re looking for sporty features, then you’ll want an XSE.
Earlier Platinum models may come equipped with a built-in vacuum cleaner or refrigerator, but these were later discontinued. A heads-up display and a 360-degree camera are also available on this trim, making it the best one to have.
Some features that you can look out for are 18 cup holders, 7 USB ports, four-zone climate control, rear entertainment system, power sliding doors and liftgate, and a voice amplification system.
While not all of these features are standard, it will give you something to look for when heading to the lots. For features that are standard no matter what, you can look for adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.
For the 2022 model, the Woodland Edition was added. This was based on the XLE, but came with standard AWD, a raised suspension, and a tow package. Capable of towing 3,500 pounds.
While the next few years saw some interior packages, the next big change came for 2025 models. This saw the inclusion of a new advanced rear seat reminder, as well as the latest multimedia system, coming with a 12.3-inch touchscreen for most trims.
No matter the year model or trim, it comes standard with the same hybrid powertrain. This is a 2.5L I4 that can get an EPA-rated 36 MPG combined, getting 648 miles on one tank. But if you find an AWD model, this drops to 35 MPG combined, and 630 miles.
Third Generation (2011-2020)
Debuting in 2010, this generation came out in 5 trims. The trims are the base, LE, XLE, Limited, and SE trims. The SE was the special trim from the bunch, coming with 19-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, and revised steering tuning for a sportier ride.
AWD is available when equipped with a V6 on the LE, XLE, and Limited models. At the time, this was described by AOL as “slipping a sports car into a minivan”.
For the first few years after release, the model didn’t see too much change, but for the 2015 model year, a minor refresh was made. This came with the ability to now watch Blu-Ray, and use HDMI for the entertainment system, which is better than the old DVD/RCA jack configuration from the previous build.
In 2018, the first additional safety features were added. These were automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and automated high-beam headlights.
In 2019, the vehicle started offering Apple CarPlay to the infotainment system. This makes it easier than ever to connect to your phone to access your preferred features.
If you want the best fuel economy this year, then you’ll need to look for a model that is equipped with a 3.5L V6. This is able to get 21 MPG combined, while having a total range of 420 miles. While it isn’t as efficient as the hybrids in the current generation, it does a pretty good job.
Should I get a used Toyota Sienna from Cars2Sell?
Yes, getting a used Toyota Sienna is a smart option, especially when wanting features that were eventually discontinued. This makes it easy to get what you want, at a price that is less than a new model. If you want to see what we have in stock, come on down to Car2Sell here in Hillside, New Jersey!