We love surprises. And we couldn't have been more surprised when we got to drive the new 2011 Toyota Sienna minivan last week.
Now, we know what you're thinking. What could possibly be surprising in minivan-land? Well, with a chief engineer who is a hardcore driving enthusiast guiding this third-generation Sienna's design and execution, the answer is plenty.
For one thing, this new Sienna is one of the best-looking family vehicles to roll off an assembly line in recent memory. The interior also has a few surprises in store, including available second-row lounge seats with reclining backs and extendable foot rests that offer Barcalounger-like comfort.
The biggest news here, however, is the introduction of a sporty SE model (pictured above) that combines performance upgrades like a firmer suspension and lowered ride height with styling tweaks including swoopier body work and 19-inch alloy wheels that make it downright sexy by minivan standards. The driving experience is equally appealing, with handling on par with some mainstream sports sedans.
Ultimately, the new Sienna, which goes on sale early next year, looks like one of the best new ways to get seven or eight passengers down the road to come along in years. For a closer look at a few of our other favorite people movers, check out these DriverTV "virtual showroom experience" videos:
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