What kind of transmission does a Toyota Sienna have?
The latest Toyota Sienna uses a hybrid-only powertrain paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT). Earlier generations relied on traditional automatics, with 4-, 5-, or 6-speed gearboxes depending on the model year.
Current Sienna: Hybrid-only powertrain and e-CVT
The current generation, introduced in 2021, is built around a hybrid-only setup that pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors and an electronic CVT. There is no gasoline-only automatic option in this generation, and the system is tuned for efficiency and smooth operation rather than fixed gears.
How the e-CVT works in practice
Instead of fixed gear ratios, the e-CVT continuously adjusts the effective gear ratio between the engine and the electric motors, providing seamless power delivery. The Sienna combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric propulsion and a planetary gear-set arrangement in the hybrid system to optimize efficiency across driving conditions.
Implemented in conjunction with Toyota’s hybrid capabilities, the transmission favors quiet operation and efficient power use, especially in city driving and light highway cruising.
- Hybrid-only powertrain: 2.5-liter inline-four engine plus two electric motors run together to drive the front wheels; an electric rear motor enables all-wheel drive in AWD-e configurations.
- Transmission type: e-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) designed specifically for hybrid operation, eliminating traditional fixed gear shifts.
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD-e) is available on many trims with the hybrid setup.
- Driving experience: Typically smooth, quiet, and efficient, with power blended from the engine and electric motors as needed.
In summary, the current Sienna’s transmission prioritizes efficiency and refined operation through an advanced e-CVT, paired with a hybrid powertrain.
Historical transmission options by generation
To understand how the gearbox has evolved, here’s a generation-by-generation snapshot of the transmission choices the Sienna has offered over the years.
Generation-by-generation notes
- 1998–2003: 4-speed automatic transmission
- 2004–2010: 5-speed automatic transmission
- 2011–2020: 6-speed automatic transmission
- 2021–present: Hybrid-only with e-CVT
Across generations, the Sienna moved from traditional automatics with fixed gears toward a hybrid-specific, electronically controlled CVT in the latest model year, reflecting Toyota’s broader push toward electrification in the minivan segment.
Summary
In contemporary terms, the Toyota Sienna uses a hybrid-only powertrain paired with an e-CVT, while earlier models employed conventional automatics with varying numbers of gears. This evolution highlights the shift toward greater fuel efficiency and smoother operation in Toyota’s minivan lineup.
What transmission is in a Toyota Sienna?
2016, for the 2017 model year: The six-speed automatic transmission was replaced with an eight-speed and a revised 2GR-FKS engine adding Toyota's D4-S direct injection fuel system.
Does the Toyota Sienna have transmission problems?
Yes, the Toyota Sienna has experienced transmission problems, particularly in older models, though some issues have also been reported in newer models. Common issues include rough shifting, slipping, and complete transmission failure, especially in models like the 2005, but some owners of newer models also report issues like whining noises or jerky performance.
Common transmission problems
- Older models (especially 2000-2007): Some owners have reported premature transmission failure, often around 78,000 miles, resulting in symptoms like the engine revving but the vehicle not accelerating.
- Newer models (e.g., 2017): Some owners of the 8-speed transmission have reported issues such as a whining noise when accelerating or a feeling of poor performance.
- General issues: Transmission failures, rough shifting, and slipping gears have been reported across various model years.
- Recall issue: A recall for 2004, 2005, and 2007-2009 models was issued for a problem where the transmission could shift out of park without the brake being pressed, due to a faulty shift lock solenoid.
Important considerations
- Maintenance: Proper maintenance, including regular transmission fluid changes, can help prevent some issues.
- Cost: Transmission repairs can be very expensive, sometimes exceeding $3,000 for a replacement.
- Reliability: While some model years are more problematic than others, Toyota Siennas are still generally considered reliable vehicles, and not all owners will experience transmission issues.
Does a Toyota Sienna have a CVT transmission?
Yes, the modern Toyota Sienna uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT), specifically an electronic CVT (eCVT) that is part of its hybrid powertrain. This transmission is designed for smooth and efficient operation, and is standard on all current Sienna models.
- Electronic CVT (eCVT): The Sienna's transmission is an eCVT, which is a type of CVT found in hybrid vehicles.
- Standard Feature: The eCVT is a standard feature on the hybrid powertrain that Toyota now uses exclusively for the Sienna.
- Smooth and Efficient: This transmission is engineered to provide a smooth driving experience and maximize fuel efficiency, but can produce a "droning" sound when the engine is working hard.
Which Toyota has no CVT transmission?
Toyota: The 86, Avalon (non-hybrid), Mirai, Supra, 4Runner, Highlander, Camry (non-hybrid), Corolla (manual only), Yaris (manual only), 4Runner, Highlander (non-hybrid), Land Cruiser, rav4 (non-hybrid), Tacoma and Tundra are not equipped with CVTs.
