2021 Toyota Sienna, 5 Likes and Dislikes after 5K miles

[@kilderken7401]

Very well done! Comprehensive and answered many people's questions. Also, credit to you for using "capacious" in a sentence.

[@nwsvndr]

Thanks for your wonderful videos (and your work-arounds)! Likes: 1) Fuel economy; 2) Cargo capacity; 3) Quiet interior; 4) Handling/Maneuverability; 5) Power inverter. Dislikes: 1) Small cup holders; 2) Unusable Rear Display; 3) Poor navigation; 4) Little seat tilt adjustment; 5) Non-removeable 2nd row seats. I would add my dislike of the front center console.

[@Tellvia]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ArnoldJagt]

After seeing that a Prius Prime can run the A/C for 8 hours on battery alone, I want a Sienna Prime that can do the same. This would make 'Motel Sienna' much more practical. -Thanks for another great video.

[@mysteriousbigboy6744]

Is that possible with the Sienna too ? What about the overnight consumption and turning on and off of the engine to charge the battery and keep car cool/warm. Are they comparable ?

[@johnchristopher20]

My Prius Prime has a large lithium battery pack; the Sienna has a small nickel-metal hydrate battery, so no. It takes 2 hours at 240 volts to charge my Prime.

[@kevinhenry177]

This is exactly why I bought a 2021 Toyota sienna XSE I was able to get the 1500 W inverter package without having to get the entertainment package. This is why I chose this van. I am also averaging around 41 miles per gallon with a front wheel drive version. Yes most of my driving is City and 55 mph. But from my 400 mile drive from the dealer and I kept it under 70 and varied my speed for optimal breaking. I also got 41 miles per gallon. Absolutely love my 2021 Toyota Sienna XSE. And yes I hope Toyota will have something soon for people that want to take out the second row seats. I know a lot of mobility van companies are currently making handicap sienna vans and I’m sure there is a relay for the airbag plug. Let’s hope something comes down the pike soon.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for your comments, Kevin. Glad you are happy with your XSE Sienna, as we are with ours. Cheers!

[@hmoobs1]

@@Tellvia Wish you would have mentioned how you bypassed the second row seat removal warning light. TIA

[@MetaView7]

Good and fair comments. I don't like the conter console. I believe a minivan should have aisle access to the back. If I want a center console, I would choose the Highlander.

[@sz4179]

I have a crappy 1996 Dodgey Caravan with no center console, and its one of its best features. Besides that I don't care if it gets dinged up..

[@oi32df]

The big deal breaker of this $50k van : I can’t think that it would take a dremmel job to cut all this beautiful plastic trim that this bulky central console shares with the dashboard to finally get rid of it . Can’t wait for a commercial cargo version with no rear window & console ...which will never come in NA cause they want to sell you a big tundra.

[@toronado455]

@@AFARDB2012 I agree with this 100%!

[@LamNguyen-sr1sy]

You're not supposed to get up and go to the back while the vehicle is moving. If it's not moving, just open the door and enter the rear area through the sliding door. It's a minivan, not a school bus, IMO.

[@marktownsend5559]

Thank you for your review. I have watched several of your presentations and find them well presented and informative. I also struggled with the rear entertainment system and finally found the best option for our use is to plug ROKU into the HDMI port and power the device off the adjacent USB port. This requires setting up the Sienna WIFI hot spot but once ROKU is connected works extremely well and is full screen.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Mark, than you for your kind words and for sharing your work around for the rear entertainment system in new Sienna. I will look into your way of setting it up in our van. Cheers!

[@michaellin7313]

Wonderful info. Thank you. Music is too loud, not needed, makes it very hard to hear your wonderful info.

[@Tellvia]

Ok, thank you, will do better next time.

[@michaellin7313]

@@Tellvia Without having to add music, it will also be easier for you to produce videos!

[@sz4179]

Please, please just leave the music out!! Its good music, but just a distraction on information video, at best. I cant even hear you over it, at worst. Thanks for the video! Btw, you saved me $40K , im not buying one! My Matrix has Miserable seats, sit on part tilted back too far. Prius same. Presses into back of thigh painfully. Maybe Camry or some Lexus has a better seat that would fit the rails, but with airbags... nope. Besides, sux to have to fix anything brand new. Im using stacks of closed cell camping foam pad pieces i cut, they're approx 1/4 " ea , to build up the back area of my seats on Matrix, have scoured forums for relief ideas, im not alone. Hello Toyota!

[@theman9679]

Loved each and every video of yours related to Sienna. Thanks for your amazing , to the point and crisp videos.

[@Tellvia]

Glad you like them! Thank you!

[@oi32df]

I enjoy your video series about the '21 Sienna , but if you lower the level of background music, it will be even more enjoyable to follow . Merci

[@hfdewees]

Good review. I also found the lack of tilt in the front passenger seat inadequate. We also have a rattle in the second row seats that the dealership can't seem to resolve. That being said, I still think it's by far the best minivan out there. Hopefully Toyota is combing youtube and forums for upcoming improvements

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for sharing your experience with the new Sienna. I am glad that despite some of the shortcoming you are happy with your purchase. We also think it is the best buy among minivans.

[@eusko9616]

IS A PIECE OF JUNK

[@sivaom1846]

Thanks for the detail. The XSE trim has plus package that does not require you to have entertainment package to get 1500watt inverter.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching, Siva. Good to know about that one can get an XSE trim with the inverter but without the entertainment system. Cheers!

[@bbdarling182]

I am trying to decide between a Sienna and a Highlander hybrid. Your videos are well thought out and presented and I really enjoy them. Your background music IMO is just a bit overwhelming. Keep up the info as it is helping in my decision.

[@sz4179]

I unfortunately cant hear fully 1/3 what you're saying because of the music

[@corvettew.s.4360]

Thank You for a great review. I purchased a fwd 2022 and was very sad no vacuum cleaner and no fridge or inverter. :( Cost so much with less. Headlights have to be turned off will not go off automatically.:( Plus second row seats not removable and sliding doors need to go further back for carseats.

[@korblibj]

Shopping for our first Sienna and found your video, great work, very informative and authentic. I see a lot of family road trips in our future so I'm disappointed to hear about the front seats (from you and the commenters), but I also spent many years flying in Economy for my job so I'm sure these will still be an upgrade! haha Thanks again.

[@LamNguyen-sr1sy]

Our family usually has pillows and blankets on the trunk. My wife usually puts her pillow on top of the seats if she wants to sit up higher. She also moves the pillow around and puts it in different positions, depending on how she wants it.

[@fredapplegarth7012]

Good info but actual photos of living in the van could be fun to see. I think… a slick roof carrier could be helpful for selected items and easier to retrieve. Happy holidays

[@Tellvia]

Hi Fred, thank you for watching and for your comments. I will take some shots of us in the van with the updated design of the sleeping platform. Regarding the roof carrier - yes, it would give some extra room for gear, but wind noise is an issue with those things, plus they produce a lot of drag and fuel efficiency goes down by 10 to 30%. I actually plan to make a video about this in the coming weeks. I hope you are doing well. Happy Holidays!

[@dretech]

I hope Toyota listens to your video, it's very useful!

[@ElwoodAndersonNV]

Excellent review of the pros and cons of the 2021 Sienna! I hope Toyota takes these suggestions seriously in their 2022 model changes.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching, Elwood!

[@BeeeHonest]

Great video, thank you. One problem, the background music is a bit too loud.

[@Jeragon186]

Good review! On my phone speaker, the music isn’t as loud as other people has said. Even though I’m not buying a new car, I was worried about high speed passing because of the smaller engine. However, your insight had relieved me of the worry. Thank you!

[@Vlican]

that was well presented and to the point. as someone looking for my next vehicle, i appreciate this!!

[@stevethevlogger]

Please enable KZbin Auto-captions for your wonderful videos.

[@Tellvia]

Will do!

[@hillyseattlenarrowstreets6087]

Have you checked out "Comma 2" or " Open Pilot" driving systems. They work well with newer Toyota's, haven't seen a review with a 2021 Sienna. It would be a great highway driving option. Also with 1500W inverter, consider a corded sauce pot - Gourmia 650W - and small electric kettle. Quick electric hot water and cooking option in van. Kettle fits in pot. Saves on gas canisters for cooking quick morning stuff

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for your comment and suggestions. I will study more about Comma 2 system. The extra hardware on the dash board is not ideal, but if the driving benefits are high it might be worth it. Regarding the electric kettle, I agree it is a great option vs a gas stove when heating water in the van or next to it, like at a rest stop. When camping an extension cord to the camping table would probably be need. Also the hybrid battery management in New Sienna does not allow much of the battery discharge when in park with AC of other electric appliances running and the gas engine gets turned on every 10 min or so. Cheers!

[@jimsgaragetoys]

Great video. While no vehicle is perfect I do agree that the new Sienna has been an excellent new update. My daughter is buying a 2022 XSE AWD and very excited to receive it. I've driven the new Sienna and didn't notice the tilt of the front seat to be an issue but it wasn't on a longer road trip.I'm 6'2" so maybe that helps me, I'm not sure, I'll have to pay attention to this when she gets her Sienna. I love the cupholders as they work with the 30 oz insulated cups that I use. I'm not a fan of the type that you showed so I never thought about it. Changing the cups you used seems like a simple solution. The 2nd row seats are not big deal for me. Most minivan owners never remove them anyway. If I used it as you do I would do a work around for the airbag system too since they easily unbolt with 4 bolts. The bigger benefit fr 99% of the people is that they rear passengers are safer with the rear seat air bags. Keep enjoying your Sienna!

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching and commenting! Agree with all points you mentioned. Cheers!

[@manie54321]

Thank You 🙏🏽 I appreciate your insights on the van. I have a Prius and my next purchase will be this van. Thank You 😊

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching. I am glad it was helpful. Cheers!

[@raiseup151z]

I have 2021 Toyota XLE with rear entertaintment system. My kids (toddlers) love it. Using Samsung s21 with the pull down smartview function. No special app required and I can easily do full screen without any issues. Hope that helps

[@Tellvia]

@raiseup141z, thank you for sharing your experience with the rear entertainment system in new Sienna. I am glad to hear that it works well with your Android OS device. Perhaps the problem is that I use Apple hardware. I hope a better app will be developed soon to make my iPad to interface properly with the rear screen as well. Cheers!

[@LamNguyen-sr1sy]

Connecting an Android device to the rear-entertainment system via Miracast was as easy as typing in your Wifi password. No wire and HDMI cables are required. And because it's casting the screen, you can do more with it than just watching DVD's like in the older RES.

[@uTubeismyTivo]

toyota needs to sponsor this guy

[@andosnow1]

I would love to see a tour of your van conversion.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Riley, thank you for your comment. The video you requested in coming in the next few days. Cheers!

[@DarrylMiglio]

I use a Chormecast with Google TV for the rear infotainment system. It uses the entire screen.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching and commenting, Darryl! I may try the Chromecast idea next time. Cheers!

[@lcheng729]

best introduction for 2021 Sienna. Thanks

[@fakeascanbe423]

3:04 Portland and Seattle alert. The AWD Sienna might just be the best pacific northwest vehicle

[@lgbrackeen3864]

Thanks for another very informative video. My favorite feature is the reclining second row with built-in ottoman. My wife (84yo) has neuropathy and needs to elevate her feet during travel. I would add to your dislike list the very dim interior lighting. I have to use a flashlight with the gray interior.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for your comment. Glad to hear that new Sienna rear seats with built-in ottoman work well for you. Regarding the illumination in the back seats area, we attach headlamps onto the handles above the sliding doors inside the cabin. This way an extra light is always there when needed. Cheers!

[@harisf]

What a solid and thorough video, great work!

[@kradwonders]

We have a 2021 Sienna Limited and agree the seats are about a 2.5 out of 5, our mileage in 50/50 driving is 31.9 mpg, wish the 2nd row seats folded rather than lean, ride is good as is noise level. Major negative is the navigation system is terrible. Recently, while out of town on vacation, we needed to travel to several locations the system could not find these were a drug store, Costco, and an RV dealer. Another issue is the manual is poor at best. An email to Toyota asking about an issue returns direction to the wrong section. Basically you are on your own to try to find the method to do anything. Often to get instructions one must flip back and forth thru several pages to get info to complete a task. Not real happy with the heating and cooling system. Wish we could close the central dash vents. Overall I give the Sienna a score of 6.5 out of 10.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching and sharing you observations about new Sienna. Regarding fuel efficiency - I found that setting van to ECO mode gives the gas pedal more travel between min and max acceleration, which makes it easier to modulate the acceleration. Rapid acceleration off every traffic light uses a lot of gas. In ECO mode you still can accelerate quickly but you will notice the longer travel of the gas pedal and this may help you drive more smoothly/efficiently. We use our iPhone connected via cable with CarPlay app and this works very well for navigation and media play. Cheers!

[@robertdavenport7802]

Super informative, thanks so much for sharing your experience.

[@Tellvia]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@marktuyet]

Wonder if they fixed the steering column problem with lower collar ? Wonderful if they fixed the stink A/C problems ? Problems for years .

[@Tellvia]

@Marktuyet, thank you for your questions. This my first Toyota minivan, perhaps other viewers could comment wether the issues you are asking about are fixed on the 2021 model. Cheers!

[@owe140]

My wife and I are 6' 2" and 5' 8" with longer legs. I've thought about adding a 1" longer bolt with spacer to the rear seat bolts and 2" to the front seat bolt. I acknowledge that this my diminish our potential safety and cause issues with the insurance company in the advent of an accident. Do you believe this may be an acceptable venture? or would you recommend against it? thanks for your thoughts.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Ow, thank you for watching and for your question. I am not a legal or insurance expert by any means, I added extra long bolts with spacers to the front seats at my own risk. My understanding, however, is that for an insurance company to deny coverage, the alteration in the vehicle needs to be proven to be the culprit of the accident or bodily injury. The question you need to answer for yourself is, do you trust your modification to be sufficiently safe such that it will not be the direct or indirect cause of an accident. I hope this is helpful. Cheers!

[@miriamvivo4279]

I hope toyota is listening. My wife just got a 2021 toyota rav4 xle hybrid. Im waitng on the toyota tundra hybrid, but may consider the sienna if the 2022 model resolves the issues you mentioned.

[@mikeengelhardt8263]

Fantastic work you’re an intelligent man thorough very impressed

[@jennadh]

I have the same issue with the cup holders in my RAV4. Currently in the market for a Sienna, so that’s a bit disappointing to hear. I was hoping they would make them bigger in a van.

[@coachrobwille4176]

What do you mean by K miles ?. K`s and miles are to different units 5,000 Ks (KM) is 3250 miles. Thanks

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching, Bob. I use K for kilo prefix for a 1000 of metric or imperial units, like 1kilometer = 1000 meters, 1KWatts = 1000 watts etc. It can be applied to miles as in 5K miles equal to 5,000 miles. I hope this make sense. Cheers!

[@coachrobwille4176]

@@Tellvia but 5000 miles is 8000kms

[@TachyonXC]

Hi Tellvia, We have received the same Platinum trim AWD in Midnight Black in Aug. Unfortunately, we found it is very inconvenient that we are unable to plug our Coleman 40 liters 12V fridge at the back as the only 12V is in the front. we tried the 110V adapter at the back as well as the one in the front without luck). I am wondering do you have any trick to power your ICECO? We also tried to power our dashcam from the USB next to the inductive charger, being told by Toyota that the USB was just designed to communicate with the display. They recommended we plug into the USB inside the center console, but that is too far away and we always have to leave the console open. Any idea? Ray

[@Tellvia]

Hi Ray, thank you for your comment. The 110V AC adapter only works when the vehicle is ON and the 11OV AC power button on the the lower left dash of the driver in switched on and illuminated. I have not tried the 12V plugs for power, but believe that the vehicle has to be ON as well for them to work. Regarding the USB plug next to inductive charger it works in our van to charge our iPhones which require a 20W power. What is the powerdraw of your dashcam? I hope this helps to solve your problems. If so, congratulation with you new Sienna! Cheers!

[@flipsonic48]

Hello, thank you for sharing your experience with the Sienna. I would like to know what type of fuel (regular, premium, and super) do use on your Sienna?

[@Tellvia]

Toyota recommends regular 87 octane fuel and that’s what we use in our Sienna. Cheers!

[@louislopez55]

Hello, we are probably going to be buying this Sienna in the near future. We have a Highlander now. My question however is what phone app are you using to measure decibels? Thank you.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Louis, thank you for your question. To measure sound levels in the van I have used an iPhone app called dB Meter. It is free and works well. Cheers!

[@kusalsl]

Thanks for your informative review. I own Sienna 2022 XLE trim and am currently 1.5Kmiles ODO reading. I only get a maximum of 28MPG now. Is there some time period you have to get 36mpg (rated value)?

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching. You must have a heavy right foot to be getting only 28 mpg :) I suggest using Eco mode. You get the same power but will have better modulation of the gas pedal. Any engine is least fuel efficient during full acceleration and the eco setting gives smoother control of power and better fuel efficiency. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@michaellin7313]

How do you get to the back, with the HUGE center "sky bridge" that's in the way? Do you have to exist the vehicle and re-enter using the rear sliding door? What if it's raining? What if there are lots of traffic passing the driver side? Those sliding doors do breakdown, and the more you use them, the sooner they break down, and they are not cheap to fix! The centre "Sky Bridge" is a deal breaker for me :-(

[@Tellvia]

Hi Michael, thank you for your comment. In 2021 model of Sienna the center console between front seats is not removable, so an option of moving to the back seats area without exiting the vehicle is not possible anyway. You may consider a full size van like Mercedes Sprinter that is much taller and would allow easier movement inside the van. Cheers!

[@michaellin7313]

@@Tellvia I was really looking forward to this hybrid minivan until I found out about the center console sky bride - it broke my heart. I went to a dealer and tested if I could get to the back by lowering the driver's seat. The seats are electric only on all trim levels, which means they move at snail speed and will break at the worst possible time. Full size vans can not fit in a garage, and they don't come in hybrid (yet). Will never buy a Mercedes unless I lived in Germany, will never drive a diesel unless I lived in Europe. I am thinking about the Pacifica Hybrid (no AWD, don't trust Chrysler), or the 2020 Sienna (which is not hybrid), or just do a hill billy job and cut off the sky bridge after the gear shifter... The "inventor" of minivan, Lee Iacocca, once said something like this: "Parents tell me, they like minivan, because 'I can drive the car and quickly turn around to discipline my kids'..."

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Michael. Let me know when you find a van that works for you. Cheers!

[@autofixation]

I have a deposit down for a Sienna and while I'm excited for my allocation, I don't understand why Toyota didn't put in the plug-in and more powerful drivetrain from the RAV-4 Prime.

[@Tellvia]

Congratulation with your decision to buy new Hybrid Sienna! After 18 months of ownership we are more satisfied with our Sienna than with any of our previously own vehicles. Plug-hybrids, like Rav-4 prime, have a bit more power but also are significantly heavier. Added weight reduces acceleration, road handling and extra the additional plug-in battery takes extra cargo space. The new Hybrid Sienna is designed as a people carrier and for extra luggage capacity. Plug-in vehicles make great commuter cars and the plug-in option makes more sense for smaller/lighter vehicles. To give 4,500 lb Sienna a meaningful EV range the battery would be too large and heavy to be practical. I think you’d love Sienna, even without the plug-in option. Cheers!

[@autofixation]

@@Tellvia I wasn't aware of how much heavier the plug-in batteries are. Thanks for the information, that makes sense as to why they didn't offer it.

[@douglassmith1466]

My main complaint after owning the Sienna XLS for three months is the 3rd row seats. I have not found a way to make them lie flat without putting a heavy weight on top of them. They bounce on an uneven road. This is annoying to me.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Doug, thank you for your comment. I’ve noticed the same issue with the 3rd row seats before I removed them. The well where the seat were folded is very useful for carrying our camping gear and luggage. Cheers!

[@nick1122]

Yea dealers love using words like “signature or limited addition models” but all those extra add ones are inferior that’s why they use them cause they are cheap to put in they charge five to $10,000 more for a limited edition for only $1000 in extras what they paid

[@maggiefritzky8212]

What about this car for handicap adapted Sienna ? Will any of your 5 pluses go away?

[@Tellvia]

Hi Maggie, thank for watching and your question. I don’t believe a handicap adopted Sienna will loose any positives about this van. It might become slightly heavier but this van is capable of towing 3,500 lb after all. Cheers!

[@tylernewberry1848]

You mentioned limitations from the suspension tune. Could you go into more detail on that? I saw in your other video about you considering Audi SQ7 as well as the Tesla Model X. I come from an Audi background and I'm looking into buying a new Sienna, so I'm wondering what handling aspects or performance in general I'll miss after trading in the Audi.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Tyler, thank you for your comment. Overall the handling and power delivery of new Sienna, in my opinion, is perfectly adequate for everyday driving in the city or on highway. If you take it for a spirited drive on a twisty road your will notice a difference with your Audi. While the curb weight of new Sienna is about only 4,600 lb, it is a tall and long vehicle. If performs better then I expected. When I mentioned suspension tune limitation I meant it as a relative measure of available power delivery to the chaise response. Toyota tuned this vehicle for comfort (235 tires on 18” rims, soft compliant suspension). We drive our Tesla Model S for local errants and when I drive Sienna after that I actually enjoy the softer, quieter ride and don’t feel deprived of power. I am working on a video about gas/electric power delivery in various situation and may have more observation about Sienna’s driving dynamics. Cheers!

[@J-Young_photography]

well, car marker is slow in the console software and has to design it for 10 years of usage, you change phone evert 2,3 years, so the experience is totally different. I agree with you they should drop that services all together, but they don't want to surrender the key features they can charge you few times more than its cost and can continue charge you for the maps update in the life time of the car.

[@andyacuna5221]

Your videos are very good, congratulations…. You could make one driving in the city or at different speeds, to see how the two engines alternate 👍🏽👍🏽😎

[@Tellvia]

Hi Andy, thank you for your comment and the suggestion for a video about gas/electric motor synergy in various conditions. I will think about the way to do it. Watching the energy monitor it is remarkable how quickly and fequently the power delivery switches from electric to gas and back to electric almost every couple of seconds, especially in stop in go city driving. It appears the that to achieve the most fuel efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness both both electric and gas power is engaged and the moment the acceleration is done the engine and van inertia are scrubbed to charge the hybrid battery. I may try to capture this with two cameras. Cheers!

[@eusko9616]

minute 6.:08 39 feet turning circle diamater .... the best

[@bruceclyne5254]

Thanks for great content. I have two questions. Q1: What does your customized Sienna weigh now, compared to the weight prior to modification? Q2: How does your Sienna’s acceleration, mpg and handling change during mountainous driving?

[@Tellvia]

Hi Bruce, thank you for your comment and questions. When I removed 2nd and 3rd row seats the total weight reduction was 246 lb. The installed bed platform weight was 120lb, so the van now is 226lb lighter than stock. Regarding Sienna’s acceleration - it not a sports car:), but off the line is has a satisfying pull because the instant torque contribution of the electric motor. It feels least responsive between 40 and 60 mph, but after 60 mph it has sufficient umph again. When passing on a steep highway at 70 mph it needs more distance vs. an average sedan, but once you know what it is capable of, it is not a problem. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@tallpaul9848]

@@Tellvia I think you mean 126lb "lighter than stock." Thanks for the great videos.

[@johnmccann7578]

When 3rd row seats are down, they bounce around when going over bumps.

[@Tellvia]

I have not driven many miles with the 3rd raw seats before I uninstalled them. I don’t think they will make any rattle as they are touching the well with soft seat cushions. Cheers!

[@minnesotacrutch]

Great video. Thank you.

[@jinchulpark4710]

It is so useful. Thanks!

[@Tellvia]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bevigilant5279]

i heard that it struggles and make sounds when going uphill and so I stopped looking at this. Others youtubers had said the same.

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for your comment. “Struggles” is a subjective term. We found that Sienna has not difficulty going over Grand Pass on HWY 5 or hills in Sierra Nevada in HWY80 at 70-75 mph. If people want to pass someone at that speed, yes Sienna does not have have sufficient power/weight ratio to quickly pass at over 70mph on steep slopes, but how often do your really need to drive that fast and why. I suggest to take Sienna for a drive and test the power and sound going uphill for yourself - you might be pleasantly surprised. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@3balo229]

You mentioned 35mpg. When your tank is full, do you get range of 500 miles before you need fill up?

[@Tellvia]

@3 Balo, thank you for your message, new Sienna has 18gal gas tank. After almost 5K miles our average fuel economy is 36.5 mpg. This translates to 657mile per full tank of gas if you run it dry. We refill at about ⅛ to ¼ of the tank, so we drive between 493mi and 575 miles between fill-ups. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@3balo229]

@@Tellvia , that amazing. That double the range of prior model sienna and comparable to Prius range. Thank you for the knowledge

[@CyrusOfNaias]

This certainly seems to be a mixed bag. What were they thinking with the front seats? And why is the Entertainment Package mandatory with AWD and the Power Inverter? Very strange decisions. Tempted to wait for 2022.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Cyrus, thank you for sharing your thoughts. I agree, if you are not in rush, I would wait for the 2022 model. I’ve heard it will have a next generation entertainment system. Cheers!

[@samc1056]

Great review! Please lower your music.

[@Tellvia]

Thanks for your comment, Sam. Will do better next time. Cheers!

[@1express46]

Interesting how many gallons used when idling all night

[@Tellvia]

@1 EXPRESS, here is a link to my HVAC for Camping video kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJ_Kg3munr6Unbs, for more detail. I would estimate that using HVAC for 8 hours sleep time would consume ~0.5gal of gas. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@kimdavis5631]

Loved this video!

[@SistahRev]

This was helpful, thank you! 💐

[@Tellvia]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jerryp2433]

You don't feel that it wanders on the highway? I feel the Odyssey has better steering. I think Toyota can do better with the steering feel.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Jerry, thank you for sharing your experience. We drove about 7K miles in our Sienna, most of which were on highway, and we think that Sienna is one of the best vehicles for highway driving. We owned an Odyssey, but it was a long time ago, so perhaps a new Odyssey is better than Sienna. Happy driving!

[@briank10101]

Regarding quietness I would say yes and no. Yes it's quiet when cruising along and in town off the line acceleration up to below 30 mph but anything in the medium to high acceleration range (above the ECO range really) causes the sienna engine to become a buzz box like a harsh diesel engine. This isn't as noticeable in the other 2.5 hybrid Toyota models. Toyota needs to fix this NVH challenge.

[@Tellvia]

Hi Brian, thank you for your comment. Looking at actual noise meter levels the sound even at full acceleration is not higher than in most 4 cylinder engines, The sound/noise perception, however, is subjective. I actually prefer the full acceleration sound in Sienna over the sound a 4 cylinder turbo was making in my previous Mazda CX-9. Cheers!

[@DadDoingStuff]

Longer front seat bolts…..genius!!

[@sz4179]

Not if you get in an accident and your insurance won't pay because the vehicle was modified...

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

What does the inverter have to do with the fridge?

[@Tellvia]

Hi Marion, thanks for the question. The inverter in new 2021 Sienna provides 110V power only when the engine/van is on. So during driving we use the 110V power to run our refrigerator in the van. When the van is parked we use a separate additional battery (Jackery) to run the refrigerator from that battery. This allows us to bring food requiring refrigeration on multi-day travel or camping. I hope this answers your question. Cheers!

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

@@Tellvia Oh, so you cannot use the car's battery directly for DC power?

[@Tellvia]

Hi Marion, yes you can use DC power but only when the start/stop switch of the van is ON. Also, the new hybrid system does not allow deep discharge of the battery and turns the gas engine more frequently than in prior models. For example, with HVAC on a 85 degrees outside day and 72 degrees in the cabin the HVAC runs off the battery for 10 min and then the gas engine is started. We use inverted for our fridge and a Jackery battery to charge the battery faster using a more powerful inverter when we are driving.

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

@@Tellvia Thanks for the explanation! I had assumed that you could draw on the vehicle battery (within reason) and have the ICE take care of charging as needed.

[@octavianomora5712]

Great information and video 🤙

[@8Kexperience]

Awesome

[@DennySantos23]

Really great review. I love your dislikes and an share them after seeing your video. I would not like the cup holders' design, I have similar large cups as I constantly drink water throughout the day. I would have the same issues. Also, I would not get the overhead entertainment system. I have small children and I much rather travel with them on their iPads that are Bluetooth connected to my phone for Wi-Fi hotspot. I much rather have the sienna come with panoramic sunroof which would be much more engaging for drivers and passengers alike. This is one of the reasons that I’m fully considering the Toyota Highlander. Although that has its own limitations as well.

[@janetnichols639]

The cup holders in the highlander are very small. My current 2015 has much larger ones so that was a big letdown.

[@davidshah4282]

I had 2019 Camary and seats were uncomfortable, after 3 to four hours of driving my legs would cramp. I thought it was just me but after asking other people that had the same car they also mentioned the same thing. I loved everything else about that car except the seats. Now I have a Mercedes E class and let me tell you Mercedes has the most comfortable seats for long drives, even the rear seats are great. I know it’s not as reliable as a Toyota but you big difference when driving. Toyota should copy Mercedes seats..

[@AB-nv7bz]

Ya seats are so important. Tesla designs their seats in house which is really rare, but they have excellent seats. Most manufactures just put in an order to a component manufacturer, and don't do the design. Its really surprising as the seats are critical.

[@LaBambaCL]

5:15 surprising you can feel rear "torque vectoring" type corrections. what does that feel like? if you can elaborate. there is only 1 rear motor, so more or less power or drag is applied to both rear wheels.

[@LaBambaCL]

2:30 nifty floor. ladders as extending support beams.

[@Tellvia]

@LaBambaC, thank you for your question. I felt corrections to the rear of the van on twisty roads, at about 25 mpg. Going into a turn first I felt that van is going to oversteer and was ready to brake, then unexpectedly, the back of the van got corrected without me decelerating or applying brakes. I was looking on the road and did not get a change to look at the AWD monitor to confirm the application of power to the rear wheels. Regarding the available power to the rear - since it is electric motor driven maximum torque is available at any rpm. The feeling was similar to to what I felt when driving my Golf-R. Cheers!

[@LaBambaCL]

@@Tellvia you are going pretty fast for road friction, if the tail is about to slip out! could the motor add some drag? could it be VSC? based on what i've seen on YT about the mazda torgque-vectoring and acura SH-AWD active vectoring, i think it's unlikely toyota has done any torque vectoring using the rear motor. it's a lot of engineering work for a mainstream minivan.

[@Tellvia]

@LaBambaC, here is a link kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZmlaaqcgrCjZ9E to an animation at 2:26 by Toyota shows how torque vectoring works on 2.5L Hybrid Highlander. Sienna uses the same hybrid power plant and, while I did not find a confirmation that the AWD systems on Sienna is the same as on Highlander, it is very likely is the case. I hope this make sense.

[@LaBambaCL]

@@Tellvia ok i see the toyota video, @2:26. to me, it describes applying more torque to the rear axle to reduce general understeer in cornering. mazda describes the same for their awd system, via the center diff. ok, i see your point what toyota hybrid eawd systems help to do. you described a near oversteer situation, which shouldn't happen in most vehicles, unless you are at the cornering limit and overcorrect steering suddenly, or road is lippery etc. if the rear falls in line, then somehow traction was found again. rally driver you are :)

[@joseville]

Deciding between Toyota Sienna and the Chrysler Voyager (a lower tier version of the Pacifica) for a mini campervan. The Voyager has the 3rd and 2nd row stow-n-go seats and I believe it's a little roomier, but the Sienna has the fuel economy and only 3rd row stowable seats.

[@Tellvia]

I suggest test driving both, if you have not done so already, you may like one or other van better based on driving dynamics and cabin design. Happy van hunting!

[@151mcx]

might want to think about the quality of a Toyota vs a FIAT made in Canada van. The reason why I went with Toyota this time, was Hybrid, can run AC for hours with hardly any impact on gas...and reliability. However, I think the Voyager is less expensive. Check how each van idles, do you feel any type of misses? My van had the penstar engine, and had a small stumble that I missed when buying it.

[@citationbob]

Toyota will last 20 years, the Fiat Pacifica will last 2 with a lot of repairs.

[@joyzhou7882]

Joy Zhou 0秒钟前 I wish Toyota Sienna 2021 could do adustment, improvement soon based on your 5 dislike.

[@phatrix111]

flaws - only one 12v plug in the front, none in the back. older sienna's had 1 extra one in the rear spare tire is optional equipment no roof rail on le and xle, that should be standard on every trim (2022 is standard on all trims)

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for your comment, Tony. It sounds like the 2022 model may be a better buy with the improvements you’ve mentioned. I think overall the new Sienna is a well rounded package for most buyers and the 2021 model year van will sell quickly as well. Cheers!

[@kHoPhAe]

I have a 2021 LTD AWD, my power outlet DOESN'T work! You can power a refrigerator and I can't even charge an iPad with the outlet or a hair blower for my wife.

[@Tellvia]

The van needs to be ON for power outlets to work. If you have a 120v inverter the AC ON button on the lower left dash on the driver side needs to be pressed and illuminated. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@kHoPhAe]

@@Tellvia oh wow, thanks so much. I went to the garage to try it and it worked!

[@grunherzjg-5443]

👍😎👍

[@joseville]

You have the 1500 watt inverter. It seems like you also have a Jackery. Is there advantage to having the 1500 watt inverter add-on as opposed to the Jackery or vice versa? Thanks! (Very informative video)

[@Tellvia]

Hi Jose, thank you for you question. The 110V inverter works only when the car is ON. It can use the hybrid battery power but the van’s START switch needs to be ON and the 110 V AC power button on the lower dash activated for 110V power to be available. It works great when for powering a fridge when on long drives. But when we camp overnight or park car for several hours the refrigerator needs power which is provide by Jackery. The combination of the inverter and Jackery works well for camping/travel trips longer than 1 day. Using just a backup battery will work too. Our refrigerator consumes on average 35-40Wh, so a1500Wh Jackery would keep the fridge powered for 2-3 days. But than you need to charge the Jackery somewhere. When traveling this may be a problem. I may make a dedicated video about this topic. Cheers!

[@rebeccaa9540]

@@Tellvia So for longer trips and use of the Jackery, the only added advantage of the built-in inverter is to charge the Jackery faster, right? The inverter isn't needed at all if you have the Jackery? I think I saw the answer to this elsewhere but I can't find that comment/reply.

[@Tellvia]

@@rebeccaa9540 , yes the inverter in Sienna works only when the car is ON. It runs the appliances when you drive, ie a fridge, and charges a Jackery. The charging of Jackery is much faster than with a 12v plug. You also can boil a pot of water when at a rest stop - much more convenient than using a stove. I hope this helps. Cheers!

[@meistercharly]

Bitte ändere die Sitzerhöhung! So ist das bei einem Unfall nicht sicher!

[@jondayoung6883]

Do you have a single brother? Lol. I need a partner who can think like an engineer and be handy in my Dodge Caravan camper minivan!!! No, I like your videos. Thank you!

[@fatauntie]

Love your videos but please get rid of the background music!

[@JOHNch4.v.v.7to10]

It amazes me that an entire group of people (Toyota designers, engineers, product developers, managers, etc.) can all come to the same stupid conclusion to NOT be able to remove the 2nd row seats in a minivan!!! That's reason #1 that I would not purchase one. I have a 2017 Sienna AWD, and I remove the 2nd row seats quite often. It's simple to do and a convenience that is a must!

[@Tellvia]

Hi Timothy, most likely it’s not the designers or marketers of the product but attorneys covering the liability issues dictating what features are offered to consumers. Cheers!

[@JOHNch4.v.v.7to10]

@@Tellvia ...BTW, I've enjoyed your channel. Keep up the good work.

[@151mcx]

Yeah, I got the stupid 1000 dollar entertainment system too, not worth it. at all. Should really be a slim 30" Wide-Screen. It really is a joke. I did get the 1500 watt inverter and all-wheel drive. And Yes Toyota really needs to provide a package or instructions to remove the (non) removable seats. What were they thinking? I however am going to REMOVE ALL the seats in the back. Lay down probably, a sheet of 3/4 ply, so I can get a twin size mattress on the driver side. and a kitchen setup cabinet in the back with 5-gallon water jugs one for grey and one for fresh, I find I don't need a refrigerator, instead, I'm gonna buy a portable ice maker. I find drinking any type of pop or juice, I want ICE! even Wine. I like to have ice.... While refrigeration is nice, the stuff I consume, like bread, eggs, avocados, walnuts, oatmeal, dried fruits like raisins, blueberries, cherries, mangos, etc...etc... fresh oranges, apples and bananas, will do fine in a cooler. Of course, you can't have meat, cheese or mayo, etc...etc... but I don't eat that. So, I'm good! Thanks for the vid! So for I'm getting around 37~38 with my all-wheel drive. It's a perfect camper van for one. :)

[@Tellvia]

Hi Eric, thank you for sharing your thoughts about new Sienna. With a few shortcomings it is a great camper van. Good luck with your upcoming adventures!

[@rzu7120]

Do you buy the organic blueberries, or just the regular ones?

[@shiro-gd6tn]

This is very interesting subject and want to listen to you. But BGM is awfully loud and I can't concentrate to listen to you. I am looking forward to your future video but please do not insert BGM, thank you

[@Tellvia]

Thank you for watching Syd. I don’t use BGM in my new videos any longer. Cheers!

[@kathyhutchison1947]

I have so much trouble hearing you over the music. Love content, but not the background noise

[@Tellvia]

Hi Kathy, thank you for watching and your comment. The music issue is fixed in all subsequent videos. Cheers!

[@TootsieAndRudy]

Too bad I can’t give two thumbs up.

[@Islander286]

Major dislike non removable middle seats and should have V6 option

[@sanjose101ful]

Jeff Bezos brother? or twin?

[@Tellvia]

Ha, ha!

[@yunsk7515]

This is not a quiet engine more like diesel powered. I don't agree on that area. so noisy under load.

[@Yosoyjonas34]

Profesor x

[@mohajeramir]

So funny, I have the same exact bottle and the same exact problem with fitting it 😀 Another great video 👍

[@Tellvia]

Cool, thanks!

[@eusko9616]

Rear entertaiment system is not necessary , children spend a lot of time all day long playing with phone tablests etc wath is the reason to have such a sutpid thing in a car

[@daem3n]

You too tall. Lol!