If you have a large family, the 2009 Toyota Sienna is an ideal car choice. It is comfortable, well-built and roomy.

Like any other vehicle, the 2009 Toyota Sienna minivan has its own pros and cons. On the good side, it has a smooth and powerful V6, an available all-wheel drive and enough room for 7 or 8 passengers. On the negative side, it has expensive package options with uninspired handling for minivan.

For 2009, the Toyota Sienna did not go through a lot of changes except for minor revisions.

A new package option for Sienna LE includes rear seat entertainment, Bluetooth device and the XLE’s parking sensors that now cover front and rear portions of the van.

An Overview

The Toyota Sienna had gone through a transformation five years back. Since that time, Sienna received compliments and became an ideal choice in its segment. In terms of refinement, it is comparable to Lexus. It has a luxurious and roomy interior. To date, the 2009 Toyota Sienna remains the same as it was in the previous year. Still, it is one of the best minivans in the market.

Toyota Sienna can compete well in its segment with its 3.5L V6 that Toyota is known for. This is an all-star engine admired for its smooth power and fuel efficiency. Another feature of Sienna is that it is the only minivan that offers all-wheel drive. Even if you live in an area where ice and snow are common, Sienna offers advantages compared to its competitors.

Sienna in CE and LE trim has a capacity of 8 passengers. The XLE and Limited Edition models can accommodate 7 passengers with captain’s chairs in the second row. The Limited model features luxury in minivan and is comparable to Lexus. With comfy captain’s chairs, gathered leather lining the doors, JBL audio system and adaptive cruise control option, this vehicle exudes luxury. It can be referred to as the minivan of Lexus.

On the down side, the 2009 Toyota Sienna does not offer a compelling package. Apparently, no minivan is to be purchased on the strength of its corner-carving ability. However, the Honda Odyssey does deliver responsive handling and smooth ride altogether. Kia Sedona and Hyundai Entourage also appear to be convenient alternatives for those who want to make affordable choices. Toyota is known for its premium pricing. Bottom line is; Sienna is an excellent choice for minivan with high end features. Anyone who is planning to purchase a minivan should include trial of Sienna on top of the list.

Styles, Models and Trims

There are four trim levels for the 2009 Toyota Sienna; CE, LE, XLE and Limited. CE and LE offers 7 and 8 passenger seating while the upper trims can accommodate only 7 passengers. The CE trim offers only four-wheel drive and the rest are all-wheel drive.

Sienna CE basically has 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning for front and rear, dual sliding rear doors and power-down windows, CD/MP3 stereo with 6-speaker and an auxiliary audio jack, telescoping steering wheel and other full-powered accessories. Sienna LE offers added privacy plus solar energy absorbing glass, heated side mirrors, roof rack, CD changer, steering wheel mounted audio controls, cruise control, foldable front seat and upgraded instrumentation.

Sienna XLE has alloy wheels, power liftgate, power sliding rear doors, automatic headlamps, power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel wrapped in leather, wood grain interior trimming, trip computer and removable centre console. Sienna Limited has 17-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, leather and wood steering wheel, heated front seats, JBL audio system with 10 speakers, Bluetooth, satellite radio, rear window shades and windshield wiper de-icer. Sienna models with all-wheel drive have 17-inch wheels, run-flat tires and wiper de-icer.

Other accessories for the Sienna include xenon headlights, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, power-folding third row seat; navigation system with back-up camera and a pair of 115V power outlets. A package for the Sienna LE includes rear-seat entertainment and JBL stereo with Bluetooth.

Performance

All models for Sienna comes with 266 horsepower, 3.5L V6 engine matched to 5-speed automatic transmission for brisk acceleration and fuel economy.

EPA estimates for 2009 are at 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined for front –wheel drive models. AWD versions rate at 16 city, 21 highway and 18 combined.

Safety Features

All Sienna models are equipped with antilock breaks, traction control, stability control and full-complement of airbags plus on the front seat side and full-length side curtain. Sienna Limited has front and rear park assist which is optional for the XLE.

The 2009 Toyota Sienna earned 4 out of 5 stars in a government crash testing for driver protection in frontal impacts, 5 stars for front passenger and 5 stars for side impact side crash protection. Toyota’s minivan got the highest possible score given by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its performance in side impact and frontal offset crash tests.

Interior and Driving Impressions

Sienna’s interior has the look and feel of a luxury vehicle especially the Limited model. Its automatic transmission is calibrated for fuel efficiency than performance. Its acceleration is spirited yet smooth and unobtrusive.