Question about SE vs. Other Models

[lysis]

Hi, I'm looking into the new Sienna and I am finding all the packages SO confusing. I have a few questions:

1. I think I might go for the SE, but would like to know whether I can get the Smart Key with that. The dealer said that they could add it on -- is this true? I need the Smart Key because I'm usually carrying something or someone to the car and hate fumbling for the remote.

2. It sounds like navigation is not really worth it? That if I wanted navigation I should go for something aftermarket.

3. I would like either backup sensors or a backup camera. I think the salesman told me that if I wanted a backup camera I would have to get the navigation?

4. I'm also one who needs leather seats and would consider putting in aftermarket leather, but does anyone know if it might be an option for 2012?

I come from a V70R which is so fun to drive. 300 hp in turbo wagon! I really love driving it, but getting my LO in and out of the carseat is a major PIA and I also would like to load up the stroller unfolded without it occupying the whole trunk space.

Thanks, in advance. Lately, all I have been thinking about is the Sienna.

Liz

[skinny2]

1. Smart Key is only available on the XLE and Ltd. I would NOT have this added aftermarke. In fact it's really a bit annoying on a minivan and here's why....you generally need the remote in your hand anyway. Either you're wanting to open the rear hatch or slide the doors before you get to the van. So most of the time...we don't use any feature but the push-button start. To use the exterior handle locks..you have to wait for all doors to be shut. So generally again we use the remote to lock after everyone is out and we're walking off. I've had this in cars before and it was far more useful.

2. NAV is only available on XLE and Ltd. So if you want the SE you're out of luck from the factory. It's not that great of a system and bang-for-buck would be a clean aftermarket or even better a cheapo mobile unit. Or a smartphone. Unless you use the NAV constantly...I don't think much of the factory units. I bought it because you get the bigger screen for backup cam and audio controls, plus I just generally buy all the options. But if you're not sure...skip it.

3. SE comes with the small 3.5" LCD screen that includes backup cam. Not the easiest screen to see things, but better than nothing. With an aftermarket NAV you can easily run the backup cam through that. Backup sensors only available on XLE & Ltd. These can be added aftermarket easily.

4. Aftermarket leather isn't a huge deal. From what I've heard, not much is changing between '11 and '12 so I wouldn't expect it. The SE seats have leatherette trim with a cloth piece in the bottom/back. Doesn't look like it would stain easy.

Make sure you drive this quite a bit before making a decision. The Sienna is quite a bit bigger than the V70 and even with the SE "sport" trim...it's not in the same ballpark as a Euro wagon. Nevermind one that's 600# lighter and has 40 more HP.... Obviously situations call for different vehicles...just make sure you'll be happy with it over the long haul.

[akphs]

Originally Posted by skinny2

1. Smart Key is only available on the XLE and Ltd. I would NOT have this added aftermarke. In fact it's really a bit annoying on a minivan and here's why....you generally need the remote in your hand anyway. Either you're wanting to open the rear hatch or slide the doors before you get to the van. So most of the time...we don't use any feature but the push-button start. To use the exterior handle locks..you have to wait for all doors to be shut. So generally again we use the remote to lock after everyone is out and we're walking off. I've had this in cars before and it was far more useful.

NOT to start a flamewar, just another perspective: I strongly disagree with this. We find the keyless entry/exit to be addictive: my wife's fob never leaves her purse, and I find that when I have another car (travel a few times a month) I tend to walk up to it and then remember that I need the key.

De gustibus and all that...

[skinny2]

I did say that the smartkey was nice on other cars...but obviously you never use the remote slider or hatch if the fob is in her purse. I would think most with kids/stuff/reasons for owning a van like the auto doors and such.

As a man I also don't carry a purse...which means I tend to forget the fob in my pocket. Waiting for one to go through the washer.

[ASW]

We have a SE for 4 months now.. and we have been very satisfied with it. We chose SE mainly because of the sporty look, ride and handling. I wanted the NAV and Entertainment package before and found out that Toyota does not offer on SE trim. Then I learned that a lot of people complain about the NAV because they can't use it while driving. So my old Garmin do the great job on it. I installed headrest DVD for my little one for less than $300... My kids are happy with it and I am happy too.

[rick312]

Originally Posted by ASW

We have a SE for 4 months now.. and we have been very satisfied with it. We chose SE mainly because of the sporty look, ride and handling. I wanted the NAV and Entertainment package before and found out that Toyota does not offer on SE trim. Then I learned that a lot of people complain about the NAV because they can't use it while driving. So my old Garmin do the great job on it. I installed headrest DVD for my little one for less than $300... My kids are happy with it and I am happy too.

We bought our SE for the exact same reason. Wanted OEM NAV but didn't want to pay $2K for it. Would rather install aftermarket. DVD for the back will be IPad, IPhone, or nothing. Kids can ride like I did on family vaca's. .

When we test drove the XLE then the SE, we didn't get a mile down the road in the SE when my wife turned to me and said this one. XLE was a little to bouncy for us. It came down to the 11' Odessey and the SE. It was really an easy decision for us, price, we could get the SE $2K less than Ody. Haven't looked back.