Mini MPVs are making waves here – the Sienta being yet another example of the change this market is experiencing

There seems to be an influx of mini MPVs into the market of late, the latest additions being the Proton Ertiga and Honda BR-V (Honda identifies it as a mini SUV, but we’ve included it for comparison’s sake). In fact, Honda took a shot at this segment previously with the Freed, but it was not able to meet its desired target. Perhaps this new trend is a sign of the changing times. With the current economic situation looking less reassuring, customers now look for vehicles that can really stretch their ringgit.

Part of the cost-saving appeal of these mini MPVs can be attributed to the platforms on which they are built. Rather than spending money to develop a new chassis, manufacturers have opted to keep costs low by carrying over existing platforms derived from their subcompact car line-ups and engineering an MPV around it.

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We take a further look at this shift in trend with the Toyota Sienta, one of the first new models introduced for this segment. Launched in August 2016, the Sienta was met with mixed feedback for its youthful and sporty styling, which Chief Engineer Hiroshi Kayukawa explains, “takes inspiration from the design of hiking boots”. It’s certainly quite a departure from the traditional Toyota design and, in our eyes, it’s not a bad looking MPV at all.

Its 1.5-litre engine is the same powerplant found in the Toyota Vios, and while 106bhp and 140Nm may not be pushing performance figures, it will still propel the Sienta with minimal effort. That it’s paired with a 7-speed CVT means you will get some impressive fuel economy figures. During our travels with it we clocked 11-13km/L in town driving and 14-17km/L on the highway. Ride and comfort is well balanced thanks to its suspension setup and long wheelbase, and you’ll find it easy to manoeuver in tight spaces thanks to its tight turning radius of 5.7m. Four-wheel disc brakes earn it some extra plus points for reassurance.

The highlight of the Toyota Sienta is, of course, its practical 7-seat interior. Taking a page out of its older Alphard/Vellfire siblings, the Sienta features power sliding doors on both sides (though only on the left side for the 1.5G). The youthful and sporty theme continues inside with the stylish dashboard layout and maroon fabric seats. Like the Fortuner, the Sienta comes with a cooling function in the upper glovebox to chill drinks. While the amount of storage compartments and cubbyholes are commendable, we still find the centre console a bit lacking.

All three rows of seats have been designed to provide the optimum amount of space for families. Getting to the third row seats is done simply by tilting the middle row seats with a one-pull strap and adults will find no trouble camping in the rear during drives. The rear air-conditioner blower definitely helps. As impressive is the Sienta’s sound system, which we found to be very well set up from the front to the rear. We enjoyed using it very much.

Having a flat floorpan not only frees up legroom and makes it easier to move around the middle row seats, but it also opens up more possibilities for seat arrangement. The third row seats can be folded down and even stored underneath the middle row seats to increase cargo space at the back. Unlike the middle sliding doors, the rear tailgate is still manually operated and can be cumbersome to open at times. It would be nice if Toyota made the rear tailgate open electronically as well.

Overall, we find ourselves liking the Toyota Sienta, despite its few shortcomings. As an urban commuter it’s fuel efficient, stylish, rides well, and is very practical to live with. Families of four or more will certainly get more value out of the Toyota Sienta than a regular sedan.

Specs
Engine: 1,496cc, 4-cylinder, 106bhp, 140Nm, CVT with 7-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic
Fuel economy: N/A
Performance: N/A
Weight: 1,350kg
Price: RM99,900

VERDICT: 8/10
The Toyota Sienta is a fully equipped mini MPV with contemporary styling for owners who require more practical usage in a vehicle than a regular sedan

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