The fact that the Sienna is based on the Camry is a good thing. The Camry's 3.0-liter V6 engine, four-speed electronic transmission, steering system, gearbox, and front suspension are industry standouts for refinement in the competitive mid-size sedan market. So the Sienna benefits from a lot of proven technology.The result is a minivan with a ride as good as any comparable model. A big, tall box will never ride and handle as well as a low, sleek sedan, but the Sienna is pretty good. The steering isn't as sharp, and the transient response isn't as crisp as some of the other minivans; it leans in the corners, and seems a bit mushy in transient maneuvers. But overall, the Sienna handles well and its soft suspension makes up for any handling deficiencies with its smooth ride quality and solid stability on the highway. Toyota's V6 is easy to live with. It's smooth, reliable, and economical. It generates 210 horsepower, more than either the Chrysler 3.3-liter V6 or Ford 3.8-liter V6. Passing other vehicles on hills is easy: Punch it and the Sienna takes off, quickly putting the slower vehicle away. On turnpikes and Interstates in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, the Sienna offered excellent high-speed stability. Power was never an issue. Toyota recommends premium fuel. Toyota's engine is efficient with EPA fuel economy ratings of 19/24 mpg city/highway. The four-speed automatic transmission is excellent. It always chooses the right gear, forming a team with the V6. Shifts are so smooth when cruising that they are nearly seamless; under hard acceleration the transmission provides positive shifts at the redline. Anti-lock brakes come standard on the Sienna, which offers smooth stopping performance.
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