Will the new Toyota Sienna be re-imported and released in Japan in 2026? Could it be the key to the Estima’s revival?

It has been revealed that Toyota Motor Corporation is in the process of informing the US side of its plan to “reimport” vehicles produced in the US to Japan.

This move is sending major ripples through the Japanese minivan market. Of particular interest is the possibility of introducing the Sienna, a large minivan that is extremely popular in the North American market, to Japan.

The possibility of re-importing the Sienna becomes a reality

The 2026 Sienna has been announced, with a starting price of $40,120 (approximately ¥6.13 million) and a full complement of equipment. This is a major reason why it is expected to return to the Japanese market as a successor to the once-popular Estima.

The deep relationship between Sienna and Estima

From Estima to Sienna

The Sienna was born in 1997 as the successor to the Previa for the North American market, which was sold in Japan as the Estima. In other words, the Sienna and Estima are related, and the Sienna can in fact be considered the overseas version of the Estima.

The current model is the fourth generation, which underwent a full model change in 2021, and five years have already passed since then. A full model change to the fifth generation is expected in 2026, and it is becoming more realistic to see it introduced in Japan at that time.

The gap after the end of Estima production

Production of the Estima ended in Japan in 2019. Since then, the large-size minivan market has been dominated by the Alphard and Vellfire, but models with the unique styling and driving performance of the Estima have disappeared.

The introduction of the Sienna to Japan will be of great significance as it fills this gap.

Evolution of the 2026 Sienna

Extensive standard equipment

The 2026 Sienna is $635 more expensive than the previous year’s model, but it comes with significantly more equipment.

Main features of the base grade “LE”:

• 8-speaker audio system (previously 6 speakers)
• power rear door
• rear window shade
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
• Wiper de-icing device
• Black roof rails
• Windshield deicer

Grade range and features

The 2026 model will be available in six trim levels:

1. LE (base grade): from approximately 6.13 million yen
2. XLE : Approximately 6.85 million yen *JBL audio is an optional setting
3. XSE : Approximately 7.34 million yen *JBL 12 speaker system as standard equipment
4. Woodland Edition (for outdoor use)
5. Limited
6. Platinum (top grade): Vacuum cleaner and refrigerator box included as standard

XSE-grade audio enhancements

Most notably, the mid-range XSE now comes standard with a JBL premium audio system with 12 speakers, a subwoofer, and an amplifier, which adds $1,105 to the price but is a compelling upgrade for audiophiles.

New colors added and color lineup updated

For the 2026 model year, new exterior colors include “Heavy Metal” (available on the LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum) and “Ice Cap” (exclusive to the Woodland Edition).

On the other hand, “Magnetic Gray” and “Celestial Silver” have been discontinued.

The Sienna’s overwhelming body size

Larger than Alphard

The current fourth-generation Sienna has the following body dimensions:

• Total length : 5,175-5,185mm
• Overall width : 1,994mm
• Overall height : 1,776mm
• Wheelbase : 3,060mm

This is a size that exceeds the length and width of the Alphard (length 4,995mm x width 1,850mm x height 1,935mm), a synonymous Japanese luxury minivan. The height is lower than the Alphard, giving it a sportier impression.

Design inspired by the Shinkansen

The exterior features a sleek and sporty design inspired by Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains, achieving a low center of gravity and a form with excellent aerodynamic performance.

Originality of the interior

Bridge console adoption

The Sienna’s most distinctive interior design is the “bridge console” that separates the driver’s seat from the passenger seat. This design:

• Gives a modern and cutting-edge look
• Large storage space underneath
• Combining practicality and design

It has an original interior layout that sets it apart from the Alphard and Vellfire.

Top-grade practical equipment

The Platinum grade comes standard with the following equipment, making it the ultimate in minivan practicality:

• Car vacuum cleaner : Easy car interior cleaning
• Fridge Box : Keep your drinks cold on long drives

These are very attractive features for family users.

Powertrain and Hybrid Systems

2.5L hybrid system

All Sienna models are hybrid-only:

• Engine : Inline 4-cylinder 2.5L gasoline
• Total system output : 245 horsepower (183 kW/248 PS)
• Transmission : Electronically controlled CVT

Drive system and fuel economy

2WD (FF) model:

• City: 36 mpg
• Highway: 36mpg
• Combined: 36mpg (equivalent to approximately 15.3km/L)

4WD model:

• City: 34 mpg
• Highway: 36mpg
• Combined: 35mpg (equivalent to approximately 14.9km/L)

The 4WD model employs a system that seamlessly and automatically adjusts torque distribution to the ideal ratio depending on driving conditions, from 100% front to 20:80 front/rear, providing safe driving performance even on snowy or rough roads.

Predictions for the next generation (5th generation)

Possibility of a full model change in 2026

Since it has been about six years since the current fourth generation was released, a full model change to the fifth generation is expected in 2026.

Anticipated design direction

Predictions for the next model:

• Front end : Rounded hammerhead design
• Side view : Simplified character lines
• Rear : Taillights connected by a slim LED light bar
• Overall : A simpler, more modern design

Evolution of safety equipment

The next generation model is expected to have even more enhanced safety features:

• Advanced Rear Seat Reminder : Uses high-precision radar to detect rear seat safety even in the dark or with the engine off
• Enhanced VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) : with Traction Control (TRAC)
• EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) : An evolved Star Safety System

Powertrain development forecast

The next-generation model will continue to use the current 2.5L hybrid system, but the following developments are also rumored:

• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) : Longer electric driving range
• Battery EV (BEV) : Fully electric version

This development is also in line with Toyota’s electrification strategy.

Possibilities and challenges for introducing it to Japan

Background to the realization of reverse import

The reasons why Toyota is considering re-importing US-produced cars are:

1. Domestic production capacity issues : Long wait times for production of popular models
2. Exchange rate : Price competitiveness in a weak yen environment
3. Diversifying needs : Providing alternatives to the Alphard/Vellfire

Estimated price range

Considering that the price in the US is about 6.13 million yen, when it is introduced in Japan:

• transportation cost
• Cost of converting to right-hand drive (if necessary)
• Cost of adapting to Japanese specifications
• Sales margin

Taking these factors into account, the price range could be around 6.5 million to 8 million yen , which roughly overlaps with the price range of the Alphard (5.4 million to 8.72 million yen).

Competitive analysis of the Japanese market

Competitor models:

• Toyota Alphard/Vellfire
• Honda Odyssey (production ended in 2021)
• Nissan Elgrand

If it can establish a position as a “fun-to-drive minivan” like the Estima, it will be possible to differentiate itself.

Challenges to be overcome

Body size issue:

The overall width of 1,994mm can be difficult to handle on Japanese roads.

• Narrow residential area
• Multi-story parking lots (often with a width limit of 1,850 mm)
• Narrow roads such as mountain paths

Right-hand drive:

If the car remains left-hand drive, it may be limited to a certain group of users. However, it may be attractive to American car enthusiasts.

Possibility of Estima revival

Scenario for reviving as Estima

One scenario is to sell the Sienna in Japan under the name “Estima.” This would have the following advantages:

Scenario introduced under the name Sienna

Conversely, by introducing it as “Sienna”:

It can be said that which strategy will be adopted will depend on Toyota’s marketing.

Impact on the minivan market

Current state of the domestic minivan market

The current Japanese large minivan market is:

In other words, Toyota essentially has a monopoly.

Changes brought about by the introduction of Sienna

With the introduction of Sienna:

It could bring new vitality to the market.

User reactions and expectations

Reactions on social media

Reactions on social media regarding the Sienna’s introduction in Japan:

• “If the Estima is revived, I’ll definitely buy it!”
• “2m width is too narrow in Japan…”
• “I want left-hand drive too.”
• “It’s more refined than the Alphard.”

It’s a situation of mixed hope and anxiety.

Voices of Estima fans

Especially from a former Estima owner:

• “I’ll never forget that unique design and driving style.”
• “It was a minivan, but its sporty driving was appealing.”
• “It was a car that the whole family could enjoy.”

I hear a lot of nostalgic comments like this.

Release date and schedule

2026 model year release in the US

The 2026 Sienna will be available at U.S. dealerships starting in January 2026 .

Predicted timing of introduction in Japan

If it were to be introduced in Japan:

• Mid to late 2026 : Establishment of a reverse import system
• First half of 2027 : Launch of the Japanese model at the same time as the next-generation model (5th generation)

It could be any timing.

Points to consider when purchasing

Summary: Hopes for the revival of the Estima

With the re-import of US-produced vehicles being revealed, the introduction of the Sienna to Japan is no longer just a rumor but has become a real topic.

The 2026 Sienna model is highly acclaimed in the North American market for its comprehensive equipment and advanced hybrid system. A full model change to the next generation (5th generation) is expected in 2026, making it the most likely timing for its introduction in Japan.

The Estima was once loved for its catchphrase “Genius Egg.” The day when the Sienna, which inherits the same lineage, returns to the Japanese market may not be far off.

With a width of just 2m, the Sienna is a tough size for Japanese roads, but its appeal more than makes up for it. Will it be realized as a “revival of the Estima,” or will it be released as a new “Sienna” brand?

In any case, the addition of a new option to the domestic large minivan market, which is dominated by the Alphard/Vellfire, will be a great benefit to consumers.

We await Toyota’s official announcement.