The 2008 Toyota Sienna is offered in four trim levels, from relatively inexpensive to true luxury grade. All share a 266-hp 3.5-liter V6 and five-speed automatic transmission. All come configured for seven passengers, though the lower-trim CE and LE models are available with seating for eight. All but the base CE are available with all-wheel drive (AWD).
Still, even the CE ($24,340) comes with nearly all the essentials, including dual-zone (front and rear) air conditioning; power windows, door locks and mirrors; sliding doors on both sides; keyless entry; and AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players. The upholstery is a vinyl/fabric combo, and the wheels are 16-inch steel with hubcaps. Second-row captain's chairs and a 60/40 Split & Stow third-row bench seat are standard. A second-row three-place bench seat is optional ($150). CE buyers can also add a package ($285) consisting of cruise control and a roof rack.
Sienna LE ($25,865) is the most popular model. It adds nicer cloth fabric, audio controls on the steering wheel, a 6CD changer, cruise control, heated mirrors, a roof rack, privacy glass, illuminated vanity mirrors, an engine immobilizer, a fold-flat front passenger seat, and other features. A second-row bench seat that seats three is optional.
The LE AWD ($29,035) adds Toyota's full-time all-wheel-drive system. Like other all-wheel-drive Siennas, it comes packaged with run-flat tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights (DRLs), and a windshield wiper de-icer. It does not offer eight-passenger seating.
Sienna XLE ($29,525) and XLE AWD ($32,285) are more luxurious, with yet another level of upgraded fabric; standard power sliding side doors and power liftgate; tri-zone automatic climate control (driver, front passenger, and rear compartment); eight-way power adjustable driver's seat; JBL Synthesis 360-watt audio with 10 speakers, 6CD changer, rear seat audio controls, and Bluetooth; an overhead console with trip computer and universal garage-door opener; fog lights; leather-wrapped steering wheel; and more. The front-drive XLE comes with 16-inch alloy wheels.
The Sienna Limited ($35,465) and Limited AWD ($37,665) are equipped like a full-on luxury sedan, adding leather upholstery and features such as Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, a power moonroof, second- and third- row sunshades, high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, heated front seats with memory, front and rear park assist, auto-dimming electrochromic mirrors (inside and driver's side), and side mirrors with puddle lamps and integrated turn signals. The front-drive Limited comes with the 17-inch alloys and DRLs. Power folding for the third row is optional ($750).
A Tow Prep Package comes standard on all models consisting of a heavy-duty fan and radiator, power steering oil cooler, and 150-amp alternator; but a receiver and wiring harness cost extra ($220). DVD entertainment, DVD navigation, rear sonar and camera systems, and many other extras are available, bundled into packages specific to each trim level.
Safety features include frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags and curtain-style airbags designed to provide head protection for outboard passengers in all three rows of seats. All models are also equipped with a tire-pressure monitor and anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, which together help the driver minimize stopping distance and maintain control when braking and swerving to avoid an accident. Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) skid-control system with traction control comes standard on all models.