The Toyota Sienna III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular minivan offering. Sold primarily in North America, the Sienna has consistently been a top contender in the family vehicle segment, known for its reliability, spaciousness, and practicality. The 2018 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced safety features, and continued refinement of the 3.5-liter V6 powertrain. This generation of the Sienna caters to families and individuals requiring substantial passenger and cargo capacity, combined with Toyota’s reputation for durability.
Toyota Sienna III (2018 Facelift): A Detailed Overview
The Sienna III, launched initially in 2010, underwent a substantial refresh in 2018. This facelift wasn’t a complete redesign, but rather a series of improvements aimed at modernizing the vehicle and enhancing its appeal. The updates included revised front and rear styling, an upgraded infotainment system, and the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense-P as standard equipment. The Sienna continues to be a mainstay in the minivan market, competing with vehicles like the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica. Its enduring popularity stems from its focus on providing a comfortable and reliable transportation solution for larger families.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2018-2020 Toyota Sienna is the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 296 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 357 Nm (263.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,700 rpm. The engine utilizes direct injection and a DOHC valvetrain with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) to optimize performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission with ECT-i (Electronic Control Transmission – intelligent) technology. This transmission provides smooth and responsive shifting, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The Sienna’s weight-to-power ratio of 6.8 kg/Hp (147.3 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.6 kg/Nm (177.7 Nm/tonne) demonstrate a respectable balance between power and mass. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) in urban driving and 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Design & Features
The Toyota Sienna III is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate between seven and eight passengers, depending on the configuration. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust and durable platform. The 2018 facelift brought a more aggressive front fascia with a redesigned grille and headlights. Inside, the Sienna prioritizes practicality and comfort. The interior offers ample headroom and legroom for all passengers, and the flexible seating arrangement allows for a variety of configurations to maximize cargo space. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely, creating a cavernous cargo area of up to 4248 liters (150.02 cu. ft.) with all seats stowed. A minimum trunk space of 1107 liters (39.09 cu. ft.) is available even with all seats in use. Key features of the 2018 Sienna include Toyota Safety Sense-P, which incorporates Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The infotainment system features a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), and available navigation.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Sienna |
| Generation | Sienna III (facelift 2018) |
| Engine Type | 3.5 V6 (296 Hp) Automatic |
| Production Years | 2018-2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body Type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 296 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Torque | 357 Nm @ 4700 rpm (263.31 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FKS |
| Engine Displacement | 3500 cm3 (213.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Direct Injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-i |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2009-2093 kg (4429.09 – 4614.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk Space (Minimum) | 1107 l (39.09 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk Space (Maximum) | 4248 l (150.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Trailer Load (Braked) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 5095 mm (200.59 in.) |
| Width | 1984 mm (78.11 in.) |
| Height | 1750-1796 mm (68.9 – 70.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front Track | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Rear Track | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Ride Height | 157-165 mm (6.18 – 6.5 in.) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.30-0.31 |
| Drivetrain | Front Wheel Drive |
| Gearbox | 8-speed Automatic (ECT-i) |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated Discs |
| Rear Brakes | Discs |
| Steering | Rack and Pinion, Electric Power Steering |
| Tire Size | 235/60 R17; 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel Size | 17; 18 |
The Toyota Sienna III (2018 facelift) remains a compelling option for families seeking a spacious, reliable, and well-equipped minivan. Its combination of a powerful V6 engine, comfortable interior, and comprehensive safety features continues to make it a popular choice in the North American market.
