2018-2022 Toyota Sienta II (facelift ) 1.5 (101 Hp) Hybrid e-CVT

The Toyota Sienta II, particularly the facelifted version introduced in September 2018, is a compact minivan primarily designed for the Asian market, notably Japan and Indonesia. While not officially sold in the United States, the Sienta occupies a unique niche as a small, versatile people-carrier offering seating for up to seven passengers in a relatively small footprint. The 2018 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to Toyota’s hybrid powertrain, enhancing fuel efficiency and overall practicality. This generation of the Sienta, running through August 2022, represents a significant evolution of the original Sienta concept, focusing on maximizing interior space and ease of use for families.

Toyota Sienta II (Facelift 2018): A Detailed Overview

The Sienta distinguishes itself from traditional minivans with its more car-like driving experience and compact dimensions. It’s positioned as an alternative to larger MPVs, appealing to urban dwellers who require flexible seating and cargo capacity without the bulk of a full-size minivan. The 1.5-liter hybrid variant, detailed here, exemplifies Toyota’s commitment to fuel efficiency and hybrid technology, offering a balance between performance and economy.

Engine & Performance

The 2018 Toyota Sienta 1.5 Hybrid utilizes Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain. At its heart is the 1NZ-FXE 1.5-liter inline-four gasoline engine, producing 74 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 111 Nm (81.87 lb.-ft.) of torque between 3600-4400 rpm. This engine is paired with a 61 horsepower electric motor, integrated into the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). The combined system output is rated at 101 horsepower.

The nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, located under the front seats, provides energy to the electric motor, allowing for short periods of all-electric driving and assisting the gasoline engine during acceleration. This configuration results in a fuel-efficient vehicle, achieving approximately 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers (53.5 US mpg or 64.2 UK mpg) in urban driving conditions. The weight-to-power ratio of 13.7 kg/Hp (73.2 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 12.4 kg/Nm (80.4 Nm/tonne) contribute to a responsive, albeit not particularly sporty, driving experience. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing combustion efficiency.

Design & Features

The Toyota Sienta II is a five-door minivan offering seating for either five or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, while the sliding rear doors provide easy access to the second and third-row seats. The 2018 facelift brought subtle changes to the exterior styling, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and new alloy wheel designs.

Inside, the Sienta prioritizes practicality and functionality. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use. Key features include a comfortable seating arrangement, ample storage compartments, and a relatively spacious cabin for its size. Safety features, standard for the period, include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and electric power steering. The Sienta’s design philosophy centers around creating a versatile and family-friendly vehicle, prioritizing space and convenience over luxurious appointments. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4260 mm (167.72 in) in length, 1695 mm (66.73 in) in width, and 1695 mm (66.73 in) in height – reflect its compact minivan classification.

Technical Specifications