2006 Toyota Sienna Review
2006 Toyota Sienna Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Smooth ride, refined V6, packed with safety and convenience features, seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations, above-average fuel economy, available all-wheel drive.
Cons
- A bit too much lean in the corners, seat comfort and noise isolation could be better, expensive option packages.
What’s new
The Toyota Sienna receives more standard equipment for 2006. Most importantly, the formerly optional front side-impact airbags and three-row head-protecting side curtain airbags are standard on all Siennas this year. Other changes include new seat fabric for the CE and LE trims and Optitron gauges for LE, XLE and XLE Limited models. The XLE also has dual power front seats this year, and the XLE Limited gains driver-seat memory. There's also a new power-folding rear seat option on XLE Limited 2WD models. In addition, all Siennas receive a new grille, headlamps, foglamps and taillamp clusters. Finally, revised SAE testing procedures have dropped the van's stated horsepower rating from 230 to 215.
Edmunds says
If you want luxury in your family hauler, the 2006 Toyota Sienna has your number. With tons of innovative features and even more available options, this Toyota minivan is one of our top recommendations in its segment.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2006 Toyota Sienna CE 7-Passenger 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.56 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$221/mo for Sienna CE 7-Passenger
Sienna CE 7-Passenger
vs
$229/mo
Avg. Large Minivan
Vehicle overview
At the end of its model run, the first-generation Toyota Sienna (1998-2003) was showing signs of age. Compared to the competition, it was smaller and less functional on the inside, and down on power. The Odyssey had been virtually unbeatable in the minivan category since its groundbreaking 1999 redesign, and Toyota was intent on claiming a larger share of this lucrative family vehicle segment. With the introduction of the all-new 2004 Sienna, Toyota made its move. Today's Sienna is larger, more powerful and more refined than the first generation -- three attributes that help it compete against other popular minivans. With the 2004 redesign, the Sienna also picked up some key family-friendly features.
One major attraction is its fold-flat third-row seat. The advantage that the Sienna has over many competitors is that its rearmost bench is a 60/40-split instead of a single piece. With both sections folded, the Sienna's cargo area is large enough to handle a sheet of plywood laid flat on the floor. The Toyota Sienna is available in either seven- or eight-passenger configuration. Eight-passenger vans get a 40/20/40 second-row bench, allowing cargo space to be configured around seated passengers. Sometimes it's the little things that make a big difference, and the Toyota minivan is full of thoughtful touches. The driver has a strategically placed mirror that, much like on a school bus, provides a clear view of the rear-seat passengers. Additionally, there are numerous storage compartments, cargo hooks and plenty of cupholders to prevent personal belongings from inadvertently traveling around the cabin. In a world full of sport-utility vehicles, minivans are still the best choice for family transportation, and the 2006 Toyota Sienna is clearly one of the category front-runners.
Performance & mpg
The 2006 Toyota Sienna benefits from a smooth 3.3-liter V6 engine with 215 horsepower coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. This refined combination results in good fuel mileage with EPA figures of 19 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway for front-drive models and 18/24 for all-wheel-drive vans. The AWD system requires no driver intervention -- if a wheel begins to slip, power is automatically transferred to the wheels with more grip.
Safety
Antilock brakes are standard across the line. Stability and traction control are included on XLE Limited and AWD models, and optional on all other Siennas. Standard airbag protection includes seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants and side curtain airbags that cover all three rows. In government crash testing, the Toyota Sienna earned perfect five-star ratings for side-impact protection along with four-star ratings for frontal-impact protection. In frontal offset testing, the IIHS gave it a "Good" rating, the highest, and named it a "Best Pick."
Driving
The V6 is quite powerful when cruising around the suburbs, and especially when merging onto the freeway. Though the ride is supremely plush, overall handling isn't quite up to the sporty level of the Odyssey.
Interior
The Sienna's interior is swathed in high-quality fabric on lower trim levels and leather and faux wood on high-end models. Most controls are simple to use, and storage space is abundant. Seven-passenger vans allow owners to push the second-row captain's chairs together to create a bench seat, though the setup isn't as user-friendly as the Odyssey's. The eight-passenger version uses a 40/20/40-split bench in the second row, enabling you to pull the middle seat 13 inches closer to the front seats for easier access to a baby. The Toyota Sienna provides 149 cubic feet of cargo capacity -- second only to the Chrysler minivans.
2006 Toyota Sienna models
The Toyota Sienna comes in four trim levels -- CE, LE, XLE and top-of-the-line XLE Limited; CE and LE seat seven or eight. LE, XLE and XLE Limited are eligible for all-wheel drive. The CE includes ABS, a rear air conditioner, CD player, telescoping steering wheel, dual-sliding doors with power windows and keyless entry. The LE adds driver lumbar, cruise control, heated power mirrors, privacy glass, a roof rack and a fold-flat front-passenger seat -- most of this is optional on the CE. The XLE includes alloy wheels, power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, auto headlamps, tri-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats and a removable center console. The XLE Limited trim level gets larger 17-inch wheels, rear disc brakes, stability control, adaptive cruise control, a moonroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a CD changer, a park-assist system and rear window shades. All-wheel-drive models automatically receive 17-inch wheels, run-flat tires, stability control and upgraded brakes. Options include a rear-seat entertainment system, navigation system and power-folding third-row seat.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2006 Toyota Sienna.
5 star(67%)
4 star(17%)
3 star(11%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(1%)
183 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Best van ever!
YaleMom, 09/21/2015
2006 Toyota Sienna CE 7-Passenger 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
It took me nine months of research before buying my van new. I got a great deal and I have never regretted my decision. My van now has over 305,000 miles on it and I have never broke down anywhere! I get all of the regular servicing and repairs done at the dealership (always using their coupons) and have spent less than $1,500 on repairs over the years including: a/c blower, wheel … bearing, new callipers and drums, as well as recently a new starter. I can only hope and pray that the next vehicle I purchase will be as reliable!
4.38 out of 5 stars
Best van I've ever purchased!
mmcnamara, 10/12/2012
2006 Toyota Sienna LE 7-Passenger 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
This van has been a fantastic vehicle for almost seven years, ferrying our family from the Atlantic to the Pacific without fail. The 3.3 seems stronger than the 215 hp rating, and the mileage is consistently 20 mpg in town, and 26 mpg regularly on the highway. In 114K miles, I've done 2 front brake jobs, 3 sets of tires, 1 timing belt service, 2 top-offs of the A/C system for a slow … leak,and a shock that was replaced under warranty at 38K - that's it. In thirty years of owning vehicles, both domestic and imported, the Sienna has been the most trouble-free of all of them.
5 out of 5 stars
Automotive MVP
Daniel S., 12/23/2015
2006 Toyota Sienna LE 7-Passenger 4dr Minivan AWD (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
This van does everything I've ever asked it to do; and with grace and poise.
It's a very composed and comfortable highway cruiser; and I can ferry my 70+ year old Mother (with severe back problems) around town with no complaints.
I've used it for annual ski vacations to very snowy & hilly upstate NY and north of Quebec City. I had no trouble on the roads nor in hilly unplowed parking … lots.
The Sienna also works well as a car-camper: roll up the back seats, inflate an air mattress and go to sleep!
And it isn't a bore to drive. My other car is a Honda S2000; the Sienna isn't all THAT. But, the V6 accelerates confedently in traffic and it can haul a full load of adults through the mountains (at or above the speed limit) at normal revs. It goes where you point it. And, brakes without drama.
Maintenance has consisted of changing the oil and changing and rotating the tires.
I have a great deal of appreciation for this vehicle and the people who designed it.
GREAT vehicle. I'd buy another.
5 out of 5 stars
After BMWs & Saabs, didn't expect to love this van
anthony94114, 12/27/2013
2006 Toyota Sienna XLE 7-Passenger 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
I love driving. Always have. When, professionally my hauling needs exceeded the Saab and BMW wagons I've had, I hunted for a van. Ultimately, the combo of power folding mirrors, gated shifting, sunroof and no run-flats was what sold me. Not passion. I just needed those things to be content.
I found a CPO 40,000 mile XLE that had been well taken care of. Then I added a Diamond Certified … Toyota warranty when I found out they were pretty cheap.
It was a total surprise to realize this rig is a great driver. You have to shift it manually to really use the transmission best, both for accelleration and braking but carving HWY 1 in rural Marin County is a blast. at 125k now, it's still super.
Update, 6/27/16
The Sienna now has 178,000 miles. Still quite stunning. We also bought a newer 2011 Sienna Limited. I think I still like the '06 better. In hindsight, the seats are better, acceleration feels matched and the van at this high mileage is still in rattle-y compared to the 2011 which has low grade rattles all over. We do need to replace some expensive a/c systems but after a recent fluid chance and safety checkup, the mechanic couldn't stop raving about how tight and strong it is. We agree. A very solid automobile. I've never owned anything with this many miles and I still trust it implicitly.
Update: 8/17 We have sold the fan to Carmax and got an astounding price for it, despite the mileage and a few needed repairs. A testimony that the Sienna is a sold investment. We now have the 2011 Sienna with 108,000 miles and still strong as a horse and used like a mule (a luxury mule). And now we've added a 2014 Nissan NV2500 V8 High-Roof van, which is certainly no Miata but it's fun in its own way- and it's a great rig as well.
2006 Sienna Highlights
CE 7-Passenger
Base MSRP | $23,775 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $221/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 43.6 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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