Prospective new car shoppers searching for the perfect family vehicle may not think to look beyond the traditional minivan. Although minivans are extremely convenient when it comes to toting around multiple children, there are other vehicles on the market, such as SUVs, that are just as good for the job. A family-friendly vehicle is expected to offer plenty of comfortable seating and lots of storage space as well as convenience and entertainment features to satisfy the entire family.
The 2016 Toyota Sienna minivan and the 2016 Toyota Highlander SUV are two of the most family-friendly vehicles on the Toyota lineup. Our team here at Serra Toyota will explore both options to help you decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. We’re going to focus on the base models, so keep in mind there are higher models with more to offer for both the Sienna and the Highlander.
2016 Toyota Sienna L | VS | 2016 Toyota Highlander LE |
3.5-liter V-6 | Engine | 2.7-liter I-4 |
6-speed automatic | Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
18 city/25 hwy | MPG | 20 city/25 hwy |
164.4 cu. Ft. | Interior Volume | 144.9 cu. Ft. |
The 2016 Sienna L and the 2016 Highlander LE are marked with similar starting price points, and the fuel economy is quite comparable for both vehicles. The Sienna L has seating for seven passengers, whereas the Highlander LE has seating for eight. The Sienna does offer a larger, more powerful engine for the base, but the same engine is available with higher models of the Highlander.
Let’s turn our attention to safety. A family-friendly vehicle is designed to keep everyone safe at all times including drivers, passengers and pedestrians. The Sienna has optional anti-theft protection, but it comes standard with the Highlander. Both are set with automatic headlights, a brake assist system, child safety door locks, electronic traction control and a low tire pressure indicator for convenience. The Sienna stands out with standard active head restraints that are not available in the Highlander. It also got a slightly higher rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regarding the front crash test for the driver.
When it comes to standard features, these two family-friendly Toyota vehicles are stocked full with all of the latest. Both come set with a standard backup camera, keyless entry, steering wheel mounted controls and voice activated controls. The Highlander has six speakers throughout the cabin, whereas the Sienna has four. The Sienna comes standard with automatic climate controls that are not available in the Highlander.
Those interested in learning more about the 2016 Toyota Sienna or the 2016 Toyota Highlander are encouraged to contact our team here at Serra Toyota for more information. In order to decide if a minivan or an SUV is right for you, be sure to schedule a test drive online and get behind the wheel of both of them today.