2014 Toyota Sienna: A Family Van Review

When it comes to family-friendly minivans, the 2014 Toyota Sienna stands out as a capable and versatile option. This model year brought several updates, refining its appeal to families on the go. If you're considering a pre-owned minivan, understanding the nuances of the 2014 Sienna is crucial for making an informed decision.

Key Features and Updates for the 2014 Sienna

The 2014 Toyota Sienna received a mid-cycle refresh, bringing a more modern exterior design and an updated interior. Key enhancements included a revised front grille, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. Inside, the cabin saw improvements in materials and the addition of a standard backup camera across all trims. These updates aimed to keep the Sienna competitive in a segment known for its practicality and comfort. — McGinley Square, Jersey City: A Complete Guide

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the 2014 Sienna is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 266 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. One of the Sienna's significant advantages is the availability of all-wheel drive (AWD) on LE, XLE, and Limited trims, a feature rare in the minivan segment. This makes the 2014 Sienna a compelling choice for those living in areas with inclement weather.

• Engine: 3.5L V6
• Horsepower: 266 hp
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, All-wheel drive (AWD) available

Our testing indicates that the V6 engine provides ample power for merging onto highways and carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

Toyota is known for its comfortable interiors, and the 2014 Sienna is no exception. The cabin offers generous passenger space in all three rows. Second-row seating is particularly flexible, with options for either captain's chairs or a 60/40 split bench, depending on the trim level. The captain's chairs often slide and recline, offering significant legroom.

• Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers
• Cargo Space: Ample room behind the third row, with significantly more when seats are folded.
• Infotainment: Available touchscreen with navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems.

In practical use, the Sienna's sliding second-row doors make entry and exit easy, especially in tight parking spaces. The ability to fold or remove the third-row seats creates a vast cargo area, suitable for hauling large items.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2014 Toyota Sienna was offered in four main trim levels: LE, SE, XLE, and Limited. Each trim builds upon the previous one, offering increasingly premium features.

LE Trim

The base LE trim is well-equipped, featuring power-sliding rear doors, a backup camera, cruise control, and tri-zone automatic climate control. It's an excellent value for families seeking essential minivan features. — Timberwolves Vs. Nuggets Playoff Timeline

SE Trim

The SE trim adds a sportier aesthetic with unique front and rear styling, a mesh grille, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it often includes sport-trimmed seating and improved interior accents. It offers a balance of style and practicality.

XLE Trim

The XLE trim elevates the Sienna with more upscale amenities. These typically include leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a sunroof. It's a popular choice for those desiring a more luxurious feel.

Limited Trim

The top-tier Limited trim offers the most comprehensive luxury and technology features. Expect premium leather upholstery, a dual moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and an upgraded JBL audio system. The Limited also typically includes advanced safety features and parking sensors.

Driving Experience and Handling

The 2014 Sienna delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, prioritizing passenger comfort over sporty handling. The suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, making long journeys pleasant. While it's a large vehicle, its steering is reasonably light, aiding maneuverability in city driving.

The available AWD system provides added confidence and stability in slippery conditions, a significant benefit for families in colder climates or those who frequently encounter rain or snow. This feature is a key differentiator for the Sienna in its class.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and the 2014 Toyota Sienna generally performs well in crash tests. It typically earned good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Standard safety equipment includes:

• Antilock brakes
• Traction and stability control
• Airbags (front, side-curtain, front-seat side)
• Backup camera

Available safety features on higher trims often include parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.

Common Issues and Reliability

As with any vehicle, the 2014 Sienna can have specific issues to be aware of. Based on owner feedback and automotive reliability surveys, some common concerns include:

• Sliding Door Issues: Occasionally, the power sliding doors may malfunction, not opening or closing properly. This can sometimes be related to the track or motor.
• Brake Wear: Some owners report accelerated brake pad wear, particularly on models driven in hilly or stop-and-go conditions.
• Infotainment System Glitches: While generally reliable, some users have reported occasional freezing or unresponsiveness of the touchscreen infotainment system.

Despite these potential issues, the Toyota Sienna generally maintains a reputation for strong overall reliability. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring longevity.

Fuel Economy

The 2014 Toyota Sienna's fuel economy is competitive for its class, though V6 power and AWD capability do impact MPG figures.

• FWD Models: EPA estimates are typically around 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway.
• AWD Models: EPA estimates are generally around 16 MPG city / 23 MPG highway.

These figures are comparable to other V6-powered minivans of the era. Real-world mileage will vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Toyota Sienna a Good Buy?

The 2014 Toyota Sienna remains a compelling option for families looking for a spacious, comfortable, and reliable minivan. Its standard V6 engine, available AWD, and flexible interior make it a practical choice for a wide range of needs. The mid-cycle refresh brought welcome updates to its styling and features. — Big Ten Championship: Everything You Need To Know

When purchasing a used 2014 Sienna, it's advisable to research specific vehicle history reports and have a pre-purchase inspection performed. Pay attention to the common issues mentioned, particularly regarding the sliding doors and brakes.

If you prioritize all-weather capability, passenger comfort, and Toyota's renowned reliability, the 2014 Toyota Sienna is certainly worth considering for your family's next vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 2014 Toyota Sienna

Q1: Does the 2014 Toyota Sienna have AWD?

A1: Yes, the 2014 Toyota Sienna offers available all-wheel drive (AWD) on the LE, XLE, and Limited trims. The SE and base LE FWD are front-wheel drive.

Q2: What is the seating capacity of the 2014 Toyota Sienna?

A2: The 2014 Toyota Sienna typically offers seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration of the second-row seats (captain's chairs for 7, bench for 8).

Q3: What engine is in the 2014 Toyota Sienna?

A3: All 2014 Toyota Sienna models are equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 266 horsepower.

Q4: Are there any common problems with the 2014 Toyota Sienna?

A4: Some commonly reported issues include potential problems with the power sliding doors, accelerated brake wear, and occasional glitches with the infotainment system. However, overall reliability is generally considered good.

Q5: How is the fuel economy for the 2014 Toyota Sienna?

A5: Front-wheel drive models typically achieve around 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. All-wheel drive models are slightly lower, around 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.

Q6: Does the 2014 Toyota Sienna have a backup camera?

A6: Yes, a backup camera was made standard on all 2014 Toyota Sienna models, regardless of trim level.

Q7: What are the different trim levels for the 2014 Toyota Sienna?

A7: The 2014 Toyota Sienna was available in LE, SE, XLE, and Limited trims.