Are Toyota Siennas good on gas?

Yes—the modern Toyota Sienna, especially in its hybrid form, is notably fuel-efficient for a large family minivan. EPA estimates for current hybrids sit in the mid-30s miles per gallon, and many highway journeys can approach or exceed 40 mpg under light load and steady speeds.

How the Sienna achieves efficiency

The Sienna shifted in 2021 to a hybrid-only lineup, pairing a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors and a continuously variable transmission. This setup favors high efficiency at cruising speeds and during modest acceleration, while still delivering ample daily-driving power. An all-wheel-drive option is available, though it can shave a bit of fuel economy compared with front-wheel drive.

Hybrid-only design since 2021

Toyota eliminated the traditional gasoline V6 in the Sienna, instead relying on a coordinated hybrid system that uses electric motors to assist the gasoline engine. The absence of a dedicated plug-in option means all models run on the same hybrid configuration, with AWD offered as a separate choice that affects efficiency mainly through weight and drivetrain losses.

Fuel economy: what the EPA says and what drivers see

Here are the typical EPA fuel economy figures for the current Sienna hybrids, broken down by drivetrain. Note that real-world results vary with driving conditions, climate control use, cargo, and driving style.

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Hybrid: around 36 mpg combined on average, with highway driving often yielding better numbers than city driving.


• All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Hybrid: around 35 mpg combined on average, slightly lower than FWD due to the added weight and drivetrain losses.

In everyday use, many owners report mid- to high-30s mpg on highway trips and lower figures in heavy city commuting or when carrying a full payload. Real-world results can dip into the 20s in stop-and-go urban work or climb toward the upper-30s on long, steady cruises.

How Sienna compares with rivals

Compared with other current minivans, the Sienna’s hybrid powertrain typically delivers superior fuel economy, especially for highway driving. Gasoline-only rivals tend to register lower overall efficiency, while a plug-in option from some competitors can alter the mix of electric and gas usage.

• Honda Odyssey: gasoline-powered, generally lower mpg in everyday driving compared with the Sienna’s hybrids.


• Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: offers a plug-in hybrid option with electric range; tends to blend electric miles with gasoline use, but overall efficiency can vary based on how often the vehicle is charged and driven in EV mode.


• Kia Carnival: gasoline-only, typically in the mid-20s mpg in mixed driving, which lags behind the Sienna Hybrid.

Bottom line: for those prioritizing fuel economy in a family van, the Sienna Hybrid is usually the strongest performer among mainstream minivans. If you want EV-only miles, a plug-in option from rivals may be appealing, but it changes ownership considerations beyond mpg alone.

Maximizing fuel economy in daily driving

To get the most out of a Sienna Hybrid, consider how you drive and maintain the vehicle. The following tips reflect common, practical ways owners push mpg higher without sacrificing comfort or safety.

• Plan steady, moderate speeds on highway trips; abrupt acceleration and excessive braking reduce efficiency.


• Use cruise control on long stretches with consistent traffic to maintain steady speed.


• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; underinflated tires waste energy.


• Avoid roof racks and heavy cargo when not needed, as added aerodynamic drag lowers highway mpg.


• Schedule regular maintenance and use the climate control judiciously; A/C use can impact mpg on hot days.

While individual results vary, following these practices can help most Sienna Hybrid owners approach the EPA estimates in typical daily driving scenarios.

Summary

The Toyota Sienna, in its hybrid-only lineup, is one of the most fuel-efficient options in the minivan segment, especially for highway travel. With estimated mpg in the mid-30s for FWD models and slightly less for AWD models, it generally outperforms gasoline-only rivals. Real-world results depend on driving style, conditions, and how the vehicle is used—windows up, cruising speed, and cargo load all play a role. For buyers who value fuel economy without sacrificing space and comfort, the Sienna Hybrid remains a compelling choice in 2024–2025.

Is the Toyota Sienna good on gas?

The Sienna gets an EPA estimate of 36 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Which lasts longer, Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey?

Which lasts longer, the Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey? While both minivans are designed to last for a long time, the Honda Odyssey currently has a higher J.D. Power reliability rating than the latest Toyota Sienna to be rated,3, 4 which suggests that it may be able to last for longer.

What year does Sienna get the best gas mileage?

What Is the Best Model-Year Used Toyota Sienna? We think the best model years for the Sienna are the 2021-to-current vehicles. At 36 mpg, the standard hybrid engine offers superior fuel economy versus the old V6, yet it can still tow 3,500 pounds. We also like this generation for its advanced safety features and tech.

What is the common problem with Toyota Sienna?

Common Toyota Sienna problems include issues with the sliding doors, cracking dashboards, and problems with the exhaust system. Older models are known for transmission failures, while the 2021 hybrid version has had specific issues with its 12V battery and a toe sensor for the sliding door. Depending on the model year, other reported problems include oil leaks and various issues with oxygen sensors.
 
This video discusses some top complaints about the 2025 Toyota Sienna, including issues with the second-row seats and hands-free sliding door: 1mPoodle DadYouTube · Jan 20, 2025
Common problems by category 
This video highlights common problems with the sliding doors in the 2011-2020 Toyota Sienna models: 56s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 17, 2024

• Doors: Electric sliding doors frequently malfunction due to faulty motors or cables, with the toe sensor on some models being inconsistent. The rear hatch can also get stuck. 
• Dashboard: Cracking dashboards are a recurring issue for many model years. 
• Transmission: Some older model years, particularly the 2004 and 2017 models, have reported significant transmission issues. 
• Engine: Problems like oil leaks from the front cover, faulty oxygen sensors, and check engine lights due to EVAP systems are noted. The 2005 model has been specifically linked to head gasket failures with coolant leaks and overheating. 
• Electronics: For hybrid models like the 2021, a common complaint is that the 12V starter battery is undersized and dies frequently. Some users have also reported issues with Android Auto connectivity and the wireless charging pad. 
• Exhaust: Issues with the muffler, catalytic converter, heat shields, and exhaust manifold, as well as leaks, have been reported. 

This video explains some common issues with the 2011-2016 Toyota Sienna, including head gasket leaks: 57sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Aug 11, 2020
Before you buy

• Check for leaks: Inspect for signs of oil and coolant leaks. 
• Test the doors: Make sure both sliding doors and the rear hatch open and close smoothly. 
• Inspect the dashboard: Look for any signs of cracking. 
• Verify transmission history: For specific models like the 2004 and 2017, pay extra attention to transmission performance. 
• Confirm a history of maintenance: Proper maintenance, especially regular oil changes, can help prevent certain engine issues like sludge buildup.