2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid Coming. Would it be Better with a Gasoline-only Option too?
One of the worst-kept secrets in the automotive world is the launch of the 2021 Toyota Sienna. That is not the secret, though. Nor is it hidden news that this Sienna will be redesigned, meaning there should be major changes coming. There have been spy pictures taken over the last year showing a very well-wrapped minivan with a Toyota emblem. Interesting.
The real secret is that this Sienna will be released to the public in hybrid-only format. Meaning, it will be powered by a combination of a gasoline engine and electric motors. This could be a game changer ladies and gentlemen. Fans and enthusiasts are excited.
From what I have heard, there will not be a gasoline-only option for this 2021 Sienna. Interesting.
Toyota is bringing us more hybrids
This news falls in line with an aggressive Toyota decree to produce at least one out of every four of its vehicles with a hybrid or alternative fuel option by the year 2025. This date will sneak up on us quicker than we think.
“In the next few years, we are trying to increase the number of vehicles that we have with an alternate, electrified power plant to 25% (of total vehicle sales). Right now, it is about 9%. And give every vehicle we offer an electrified power plant option.” stated Tom Kretschmann, Product Subject Matter Expert with the Toyota Product & Sales Engagement team.
This last statement is particularly interesting, as it could mean vehicles we all know in the world of Toyota will be gaining new hybrid trim levels. Yes, I am looking at you Toyota Tacoma and Tundra and 4Runner. Oh yeah, and of course I cannot leave you out 2021 Sienna.
The current 2020 Sienna
All current 2020 Toyota Sienna minivans are powered with a team of a 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This produces 296 horsepower and 263 lb.-ft. torque. Most Sienna trim levels are front-wheel drive, but there are all-wheel drive choices available for those people in colder and snowier climates.
Sienna is what I consider to be a prime family road trip vehicle that is smooth and quiet and comfortable with plenty of seating for up to 8 passengers.
Only hybrid grades for 2021 Toyota Sienna
It is a near certainly that we are heading for a 2021 Sienna Hybrid. You should not be expecting a gasoline-only version of the Sienna this upcoming model year. Toyota is banking on its incredible reputation for long-term hybrid quality and reliability. Just look to its most famous lineup member, the Prius, as proof for just how dependable a Toyota hybrid vehicle is.
VIDEO: Learn my thoughts about upcoming 2021 Sienna Hybrid specs.
Also, Toyota has recently announced a strong extension of its hybrid battery warranty. All 2020 Toyota hybrid vehicles have a hybrid battery warranty of 10 years / 150,000 miles from date of purchase. This should provide a sense of calm and give peace of mind to potential owners who have never driven or owned a Toyota hybrid vehicle before.
Time for your thoughts on 2021 Sienna
Do you feel Toyota should also release some trim levels of the 2021 Sienna with a gasoline-only version? This is what Sienna drivers have been used to since its inception in 1997.
I personally feel there will be many people who naturally welcome a hybrid-only Sienna. They should get excellent fuel efficiency (perhaps up to 30mpg for a minivan). This should help tremendously while managing a long road trip vacation or “commuting to work” budget.
So, are you ready for the Sienna Hybrid? If you have never owned a hybrid, what, if any, concerns do you have about owning one?
Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I detail 5 key changes we want to see in a next-gen 2022 Toyota Tundra. Good stuff coming.
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