We’re shopping for a minivan and leaning towards the Sienna because we live in central Appalachia and need AWD with good fuel economy.
We once rented a Chrysler Pacifica on a trip and loved its 360 cameras. It made parking and tight spaces so much easier. From what I’ve seen, the Sienna only has this feature in the Platinum trims from recent years. Can someone confirm which trims and years include the 360 cameras?
If you go for the Platinum, I’d recommend skipping the spare tire option. If you get it, you’ll lose the ottomans in the second row, which are one of the best features of the Platinum trim.
Darcy said:
If you go for the Platinum, I’d recommend skipping the spare tire option. If you get it, you’ll lose the ottomans in the second row, which are one of the best features of the Platinum trim.
That’s just for AWD models, right? I know you’re asking about AWD, just checking if it’s different for FWD.
@Ripley
Yes, you’re correct. If you get FWD and the spare tire, you can still have the ottomans. I’m from New England, so not getting AWD for a $60k minivan is something I wouldn’t consider.
@Oren
Thanks! I’m probably not looking at 2025 models. My budget is around $40k-$50k, so I’m considering 2-3 year-old ones with some mileage. I could stretch to $60k, but it’s not ideal for me financially.
@Orion
We also considered the Carnival. It has better tech and a great interior, but safety concerns with the fire risk pushed us towards the Sienna. Toyota could use some stronger competition.
Amelia said: @Oren
I have a 2025 model, and while it’s better than before, it’s still not great. Hard to imagine how bad it must’ve been on earlier models.
I came from a 2017 Highlander, so the improvement felt massive to me. Made me feel like I had new eyes.
@Oren
Agree with this. I’ve got a 2025, and I also drove a 2024 before deciding. The image quality on the 2025 feels like the difference between HD and standard TV. It’s plenty clear for me.
What’s so great about the 360 camera? I’ve been driving for over 25 years without any of these features, and it’s been fine. People just need to focus on their driving skills and be cautious. Semi and box truck drivers manage without these luxuries too.
Alexander said: @Briar
I’m pretty sure newer high-end semi-trucks do have these features now. I’ve seen ones with sleeper cabs, satellite TV, and all sorts of extras.
Even with all that, they don’t have airbags for the driver. Seems odd, doesn’t it?
T.gwendew said:
Only the Platinum has it, but you could install an aftermarket one on lower trims if needed.
Would an aftermarket option be very expensive? Also, how’s the quality? I don’t know much about installing tech like this and would probably hire someone to do it. Curious about your experience.