The Toyota Sienta is a compact minivan primarily designed and marketed for the Asian market, particularly Japan and Indonesia. The third generation, introduced in August 2022, continues the Sienta’s reputation for maximizing interior space within a relatively small footprint. While not officially sold in the United States, the Sienta represents a significant segment of the global automotive market – efficient, family-oriented vehicles prioritizing practicality and fuel economy. The Sienta III 1.5, equipped with a 1.5-liter engine and a Direct Shift-CVT transmission, is a key variant within the lineup, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
Toyota Sienta III 1.5: An Overview
The Sienta occupies a unique niche, bridging the gap between a subcompact car and a larger, more expensive minivan. It’s designed to appeal to young families and urban dwellers who need a versatile vehicle for daily commutes and weekend trips. The third generation Sienta features a more modern and stylish exterior compared to its predecessors, along with an updated interior focused on comfort and functionality. The 1.5-liter engine variant is positioned as the entry-level option, emphasizing fuel efficiency and affordability.
Engine & Performance
The Toyota Sienta III 1.5 is powered by the 1.5-liter M15A-FKS inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 120 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb.-ft.) of torque between 4,800 and 5,200 rpm. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 94.5 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 114.2 Nm per tonne. Power per liter is rated at 80.5 hp/l. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a VVT (Variable Valve Timing) system to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a Direct Shift-CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which provides smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is designed to mimic the feel of a traditional automatic while maximizing fuel economy. The Sienta III 1.5 also incorporates a Start & Stop System, further enhancing fuel savings during city driving.
Design & Features
The Sienta III maintains a minivan body style with five doors and seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes a spacious and airy cabin, with a focus on ease of access and comfortable seating. The exterior styling is characterized by a more angular and modern aesthetic compared to previous generations. Key features include a relatively short wheelbase of 2750 mm (108.27 in) and a compact overall length of 4260 mm (167.72 in), making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The vehicle’s width is 1695 mm (66.73 in) and height is also 1695 mm (66.73 in). The Sienta prioritizes practicality with features like sliding rear doors, which provide easy access to the rear seats, especially in tight parking spaces. Safety features, while varying by market, typically include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The interior is designed with durable materials and a functional layout, prioritizing ease of cleaning and maintenance. Ride height (ground clearance) is 140 mm (5.51 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Sienta |
| Generation | Sienta III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (120 Hp) Direct Shift-CVT |
| Start of production | August, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (WLTC) | 7.04 l/100 km (33.4 US mpg, 40.1 UK mpg, 14.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (WLTC) | 4.90 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 5.43 l/100 km (43.3 US mpg, 52 UK mpg, 18.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4800-5200 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4800-5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M15A-FKS |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97.6 mm (3.84 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT |
| Kerb Weight | 1270-1280 kg (2799.87 – 2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275-285 kg (606.27 – 628.32 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4260 mm (167.72 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Direct Shift-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
In conclusion, the Toyota Sienta III 1.5 Direct Shift-CVT represents a practical and efficient option within the compact minivan segment, particularly in markets where space optimization and fuel economy are highly valued. While not available in the US, it exemplifies Toyota’s commitment to providing versatile and affordable transportation solutions globally.
