Toyota recently the latest iteration of its iconic compact MPV – the 2023 Toyota Sienta. The all-new Sienta replaces the second-generation model, which was released back in 2015. And we can’t help but talk about its fresh design, enhanced features, and hybrid technology. The Sienta has always been a beloved compact MPV in Malawi, so we were very excited when we caught a glimpse of the 2023 Sienta in Malawi. After taking the model for a spin in the streets of Lilongwe, we thought we’d put together a 2023 Toyota Sienta review, to share our unbiased thoughts on the fresh Toyota Sienta.
So, in this review, we will take a closer look at the 2023 Toyota Sienta, eyeballing its design, technology, performance, and more. Join us as we uncover what the 2023 Toyota Sienta has in store, and what makes it an ideal choice in the MPV world.
Overview Of The 2023 Toyota Sienta: A Japanese Citroen or Fiat Multipla?
Now built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the Sienta promises improved performance, enhanced safety, and a more dynamic driving experience. While primarily sold in Japan, the 2023 Sienta is available in both 5 and seven-seater configurations. With two setups on offer, the Sienta caters to the varying needs of families and commuters.
Competing against the Honda Freed and the BYD M3e Electric on the Japanese market, the 2023 Toyota Sienta takes technology, drivability, and MPV versatility to the next level.
What’s New In The 2023 Toyota Sienta
The 2023 Toyota Sienta brings a refreshing wave of updates, elevating its appeal and functionality. Here’s a glimpse of what’s new in this compact MPV:
Increased Cabin Height: Toyota increased the 2023 Sienta’s cabin height. This allows the MPV to provide passengers with a more spacious and comfortable interior, despite its compact size.
Redesigned Front and Profile: The exterior receives a fresh look with a redesigned front and profile. The updates give the 2023 Sienta a more modern and dynamic appearance.
Grown Dimensions: The 2023 Sienta has grown in size, measuring at 4,300 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height. However, the wheelbase remains consistent with its predecessor at 2,750 mm. This ensures stability and balanced handling while enhancing the vehicle’s interior.
Exterior Design
At first glance, the 2023 Toyota Sienta’s appearance might have you doing a double-take. It’s as if someone combined the quirky charm of a Toyota Yaris Verso with the compact practicality of a newer Fiat Panda. But rest assured, Toyota’s designers weren’t experimenting on that. it’s Toyota’s unique take on the compact MPV formula.
The Third generation 2023 Toyota Sienta embraces a simpler, yet more sophisticated look than its predecessor.
At the front, the Sienta has cool rectangular headlights surrounded by daytime running LED lights, reminiscent of the new Honda Jazz (also called Honda Fit). These headlights and daytime running lights are connected by a black bar, meeting the Toyota logo in the center.
You’ll notice an increased presence of black details in the profile, spanning across both the doors and the wheels. And much like the second-generation model, the 2023 Toyota Sienta has the sliding tailgate feature.
Interior Design And Comfort
Inside the 2023 Sienta, you’re greeted by an interior that’s as thoughtfully designed as it is spacious. The cabin boasts a modern and ergonomic layout, with quality materials used throughout. The dashboard is probably the most attention-grabbing aspect of the interior. It features a driver-focussed cockpit, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a tech-filled console. Behind the 3-spoke steering wheel is an optional digital instrument cluster.
Below the screen are the infotainment dials and climate controls. What we particularly love about the Toyota Sienta’s climate options is it features an air circulation system on the ceiling. This allows the Sienta’s air conditioning system to work more efficiently, providing hot or cold air to all occupants as needed.
In addition to the seats, the 2023 Sienta boasts a great amount of fabric upholstery on the console and door panels.
Cabin And Cargo Space
The 2023 Toyota Sienta goes the extra mile to ensure a comfortable experience inside their flagship Sienta. Toyota has increased the cabin height by 20mm, creating a more open space. Furthermore, the brand redesigned the rear seats to provide additional headroom and legroom.
In addition to the expansive cargo space, the Toyota Seinta features lots of storage compartments in the cabin. These include the cup holders, center console space, hooks, phone, and pockets, making the Sienta a practical minivan.
Engine And Transmission
Under the hood, the 2023 Sienta comes with a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder in-line 12-valve DOHC Dynamic Force Engine petrol engine. It’s worth noting that the Sienta is only available in the ICE version or as a hybrid that combines the same engine with one or two electric motors.
The 1.5-liter engine makes 91 bhp (68 kW) and the motors deliver a power output of 79 bhp (59 kW). Together, the ICE engine and electric motors motors produce a combined output of 114 bhp (85 kW) and 120 Nm of torque.
This power goes to either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed direct-shift CVT System. The best part about this CVT is that it comes with a Sport Sequential Shiftmatic system that simulates gear changes.
Performance And Handling
Behind the wheel, the 2023 Toyota Sienta is gutsy, with ample power under the hood. Throughout our test drive, we enjoyed the MPV’s ride and steering feedback.
The CVT in the 2023 Toyota Sienta has certainly come a long way from the Lancer GLX days. You’ll notice that the speed picks up smoothly, with excellent acceleration. And don’t underestimate its 1500cc engine. Also, don’t spend too much time on the numbers though. The torque levels also make this Sienta feel peppy enough.
Plus, it’s remarkably quiet, making you feel content with the available power. You won’t feel like you need more power from it. That said, we’re happy the new Sienta dropped the whinny engine noises that haunted older models.
The Sienta’s ride now strikes a better balance between comfort and performance. Like the predecessor, the 2023 Sienta maintains the MacPherson struts in the front and a rear torsion beam setup. It also comes with ventilated disc brakes in the front and disc brakes in the rear.
Thanks to the TNGA platform’s enhanced rigidity, along with high-damping structural adhesive, expect a huge improvement in the ride quality.
2023 Toyota Sienta Review: Acceleration And Speed
Thanks to the new power output, the 2023 Toyota Sienta can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds and has a top speed of 160 km/h (approximately 99.42 miles per hour (mph).
Infotainment, Features And Technology
A 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system sits at the center of the dashboard. Compared to most systems we’ve seen on similar cars, the 2023 Sienta’s infotainment system is on the cutting edge, featuring Apple CarPlay for seamless connectivity.
The 2023 Toyota Sienta comes packed with all the features you’d expect from a Lexus. This includes tech like the speed-controlled cruise, collision warning, and lane departure indicator.
The 2023 Toyota Sienta also provides a lot of additional features, including LED tail lamps, Front Grill Garnish in Metallic Paint, 2nd Row Glass with Gradient Dot Shading, Driver Seat Integrated Armrest w/ Hook, Adaptive High Beam Assist, and a window sunshade.
2023 Toyota Sienta Review: Fuel Efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2023 Toyota Sienta consumes a liter per 25 kilometers (25 km). This makes the Sienta a very fuel-efficient choice in a segment that is largely dominated by the Honda Freed.
According to manufacturer specs, the Sienta releases 95 g of CO2 Emissions per kilometer.
2023 Toyota Sienta Pricing
Prices of the 2023 Toyota Sienta begin at $146, 888 for the base Front Wheel Drive mode. Rising the family tree gives you more options. Prices go up to $152,615 for the all-wheel drive hybrid model. In Malawi, you can find the new Toyota Sienta through Car Sale sites.
2023 Toyota Sienta: Pros And Cons
Pros
- New, Distinctive Look
- Good visibility
- Perfect size for urban Malawi
- Spacious interior
- Offers Comfortable ride
- The new Dynamic Force hybrid motor + CVT combination
- Awesome color options
Cons
- No option to open the rear tailgate glass as a secondary opening
- Small truck when all seats are in use
- Absent slots for roof racks
- No luxury options, like leather seats
Final Verdict: Is The 2023 Toyota Sienta Right For You?
The brand-new 2023 Toyota Sienta is a worthy choice. Aside from being one of the safest compact MPVs out there (owing to the TNGA Platform), the Sienta also features ETC functionality, passenger comfort, and good performance. It is the perfect family car.
Ultimately, your decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.
