Toyota Introduces Hybrid Minivan in Japan

Toyota Motor Corp. has launched the second-generation of its Sienta minivan in Japan. The redesigned model is slightly larger and sportier than its predecessor, and now includes a hybrid variant.

The hybrid Sienta is powered by a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine, 45-kW electric motor and a nickel-metal-hydride battery. The combination produces a total of 100 hp. Fuel economy is rated at 64 mpg on the Japanese driving cycle for the hybrid and 48 mpg for the 1.5-liter non-hybrid.

All-wheel drive is optional for the conventional Sienta. Other features include cooled exhaust gas recirculation and variable-valve timing.

Toyota likens the vehicle's wedge-like profile to that of a hiking shoe. Buyers can choose from a variety of bold exterior colors.

The interior features three rows of seats configured stadium-style, in which each rear row is successively higher. The van's floor has been lowered two inches with a flat design made possible by placing the hybrid battery beneath the front of the second row of seats.

To improve ingress/egress, the side sliding door opening has been widened by 2 inches to the third row of seats and lowered by about 2.5 inches. Second-row knee room has been increased by 1 inch.