2021 Toyota Sienna Goes All Green

From Autoweek

• The Toyota Sienna goes all hybrid for 2021

• Optional second row seats can slide 25 inches and feature an ottoman

• It can still fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood

The Toyota Sienna minivan is entering its fourth generation in 2021. It takes cues from the new Highlander SUV, including the more upright shape and wild-looking fender flares. Additionally, the Sienna, like the Venza SUV will only be available with a hybrid and CVT. Upgraded models also feature super sliding first-class quality seats with a flip out ottoman, but we’ll get to that in a minute.

"For Sienna, it made sense to make it all-hybrid based on current sales trends and to ensure it stands out in the segment," said Toyota. "In addition to fuel efficiency, the range provided by this hybrid powertrain will allow Sienna drivers more time on the road with their families and friends. We have seen a much stronger demand for hybrid powertrains in our vehicles. RAV4 Hybrid sales have risen from 10% to more than 25% of total sales and Highlander Hybrid is projected to be 20% of total Highlander sales."

And Toyota isn't the only one. We expect the next Jaguar XJ to be all electrified, the Porsche Macan going there, the Hyundai Ioniq is all green and even the next Lamborghini Aventador will have some form of hybridization. And since solar is now cheaper to produce electricity than fossil fuels, the dominoes should start to fall quicker.

The 2021 Sienna will sport Toyota’s 2.5-liter “Dynamic Force” four along with a 1.9kWh battery. The combination provides 245 net hp. That’s down from last year’s V6, but Toyota says it's because the old output was measured at the crankshaft, and this one is measured at the wheels, the contrast isn’t as stark as you expect. And, as we saw in our preview drive, the Sienna feels extra quick off the line and just fine for high-speed expressway cruising. Unfortunately, the hybrid/CVT combo is still a little louder than expected in the cabin, and the brakes still have a spongy feel as the regen system works its magic.

All-wheel drive is offered on all trims and drops combined mileage from 36 mpg to 35 mpg. Torque split to the rear ranges from 0 to 80 percent on those models.