2016 TOYOTA SIENTA
The new 2016 Toyota
Sienta – this Japan-only second-generation B-segment MPV with sliding doors
takes over from the original, which has been on sale since 2003 (so long !). This
Yaris-based model is different from the regular-doored Passo Sette, or Perodua
Alza which sells in Malaysia.
Measuring 4,235 mm
long, 1,695 mm wide and 1,675 mm tall, it’s around the same size as the Alza,
being just 5 mm longer and 55 mm taller. Against its direct competitor, the
Honda Freed, it’s 20 mm longer but 40 mm lower.
The styling is some
departure from its boxy, geometric predecessor, there’s organic volumes. At the
front, the swept-back headlights (with optional LED self-levelling projectors
and daytime running lights) are connected to the large downturned grille via
bumper garnishes that run downwards, encircling the fog lights.
Moving backwards, the
wraparound glasshouse droops slightly to meet the shutline of the rear sliding
door, while a protruding crease along the bodyside and a contrasting side
garnish help break up the otherwise slab-sided design. The LED tail lights are
connected via a U-shaped bumper garnish design that mirrors the front.
Aside from the nine
standard paint finishes (including the bright Air Yellow), there are also five
two-tone colour schemes to choose from, with the garnishes and wing mirror caps
in either metallic blue or pearl brown. There are also three 15- and 16-inch
wheel choices on offer, including two alloy options.
It’s much the same
story inside as well, with large swooping shapes. The dashboard features a
dual-tier design – the upper layer incorporates the air vents, 2-DIN head unit
and a high-mounted instrument panel while the lower layer holds the Alza-like
air-con controls and gear lever. A high-definition 4.2-inch TFT LCD multi-info
display is standard on G and X hybrid models, and optional everywhere else.
Practicality takes
centre stage here – there are two glove boxes (upper one has an orange lining),
a front-mounted shopping hook, several cubbyholes and cupholders and even a
smartphone holder in the third row. There’s also a low, flat floor, made
possible by mounting the slimline fuel tank under the seats, Honda Jazz-style,
as well as positioning the hybrid’s battery under the front of the second row.
Very intelligent MID
Available in many trims
