The new Toyota Sienta, which underwent a minor change in August 2025, has undergone significant improvements, including the standardization of an electric parking brake on all grades and the addition of Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). While the new Sienta is overwhelmingly popular in the compact minivan market, it also has some “disappointing points.”
Introduction: Does the seemingly perfect Sienta have any flaws?
In this article, we will honestly tell you about six drawbacks of the new Sienta . However, to conclude, these are “minor complaints” that nitpick and do not significantly diminish the overall satisfaction. Still, it’s information that anyone considering purchasing one should know.
Reviewing the basic specifications of the new Sienta
Before explaining the drawbacks, let’s take a look at the basic specifications of the new Sienta after the minor change in 2025.
SIENTA
Main specifications (Hybrid Z FF):
- Total length: 4,260mm
- Overall width: 1,695mm
- Overall height: 1,695mm
- Minimum turning radius: 5.0m
- Engine: 1.5L 3-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine
- Maximum system output: 116 horsepower
- WLTC mode fuel economy: 28.2km/L (FF)
- Passenger capacity: 7 people (3-row seats) / 5 people (2-row seats)
Key points of the 2025 improvements:
Electric parking brake standard on all grades
- Electric parking brake standard on all grades
- Auto-hold memory function added
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) standard equipment
- Additional USB ports (Type-A + Type-C)
- Improved center console tray
While this may seem flawless, there are some issues that are bothersome when you actually use it. Let’s take a closer look at the six drawbacks.
[Disadvantage 1] No digital inner mirror setting
What’s the problem?
The new Sienta is a three-row seat minivan, but it does not have a digital inner mirror . It is not available as a manufacturer or dealer option, so it cannot be installed as a genuine part.
What is a digital inner mirror?
The digital inner mirror is a function that displays the image from the rear camera on the rearview mirror. It can be switched between normal mirror mode and digital mode, and has the following advantages:
merit:
- Rear visibility is maintained even with passengers in the third row
- The headrest doesn’t block your view
- Clear rear visibility even in rainy weather
- You can see the rear even when fully loaded
Necessary equipment for a three-row seat minivan
The new Sienta has three rows of seats, so rear visibility is significantly reduced when passengers sit in the third row . The headrests in the second and third rows also obstruct the view.
Reclining the headrest will improve the situation to some extent, but for safety reasons it is best to leave the headrest in use.
Comparison with rival cars
Adoption status in Toyota vehicles:
- Alphard/Vellfire: Standard equipment (high grade)
- Noah/Voxy: Available as a manufacturer option
It’s strange that this option is available for the Noah/Voxy, which are also Toyota minivans, but not for the Sienta.
Honda Freed:
The Freed also does not have a digital inner mirror. This is a common feature in compact minivans.
Practical impact
Impact: ★★★☆☆ (moderate)
This is a somewhat noticeable drawback for families who frequently use the third row, and it will be particularly inconvenient for those who:
People who want a digital inner mirror:
- Frequently seat passengers in the third row
- Often packed with luggage
- Frequently driving in the rain
- Seeking safer rear visibility
Countermeasures
There is an option to retrofit an aftermarket digital inner mirror (digital rearview mirror). The price is around 20,000 to 50,000 yen, and installation is relatively easy. Since there is no genuine option, we recommend considering an aftermarket product.
[Disadvantage 2] Rear seat seatback tables are not standard equipment
What’s the problem?
Seatback table
The seatback table is convenient for those sitting in the back seat, but in the new Sienta it is only available as an option on the passenger side for 13,200 yen , and is not even available on the driver’s side.
Why isn’t there a setting on the driver’s side?
The seatback pocket and USB charging port are installed behind the driver’s seat, so it is physically impossible to install a seatback table. The USB charging port was chosen as the priority function.
Comparison with rival cars
Advantages of the Suzuki Solio: The Suzuki Solio comes standard
with seatback tables for both the driver and passenger seats . It also has drink holders, making the Solio the winner in terms of rear seat comfort.
Suzuki Solio
Honda Freed Situation:
The Freed also has seatback tables as an option on higher grade models, but they are still not standard equipment.
Practical impact
Impact: ★★☆☆☆ (slightly low)
For families with small children, a seatback table is convenient for placing drinks and snacks. However, it can be installed on the passenger side for 13,200 yen, so if you need one, you can add it as an option.
The driver’s seat can be replaced with a seatback pocket and a USB charging port, so this is not a major practical issue. However, considering that the Solio comes standard with these, it is somewhat less competitive in terms of price.
[Disadvantage 3] The front door handles are positioned too high
What’s the problem?
The door handles for the front seats (driver’s seat and passenger seat) of the new Sienta are installed much higher than those of a normal car . First-time drivers are almost always confused and find themselves searching for the door handles.
Why this location?
This appears to be a result of design reasons and prioritizing space for the door pockets. Placing the door handles at a high position has the advantage of allowing for large storage spaces to be created below the doors.
Practical impact
Impact: ★☆☆☆☆ (low)
It’s true that it can be a little confusing at first, but once you get used to it, it’s no problem at all . Your body will get used to it after two or three rides. However, if you often have elderly or small people riding with you, you may need to be considerate and let them know where the car is in advance.
[Disadvantage 4] No large gauges such as 12.3 inches
What’s the problem?
The new Sienta’s meter is a 7-inch LCD display, but the amount of information it can display is limited . The following points are particularly concerning.
Specific constraints:
- There is less information available compared to models that use large meters such as 12.3 inches.
- Average fuel consumption and energy flow cannot be displayed simultaneously
- Low customizability
Comparison with rival cars
Recent top car models:
- New Crown: 12.3-inch full digital meter
- New Prius: 12.3-inch digital meter
- New Corolla Cross: 12.3-inch meter (high-end grade)
On the other hand, compact cars in the same price range typically have meters of around 7 inches. Considering that even the Lexus NX has a grade with 7-inch meters, this is a reasonable setting for the Sienta’s price range.
Freed
Salvation Point
Equipped with a brake indicator: The Sienta is equipped with a brake indicator
, which
is not available on the Corolla Cross .
The brake indicator is a display that lets you know whether the brake lights are on or not. When the Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) is activated and the brakes are applied automatically, you can confirm that “your car is now braking.” In terms of safety, this is actually important information.
Practical impact
Impact: ★★☆☆☆ (slightly low)
It’s true that the amount of information is less than with a larger meter, but it displays all the information you need for driving , such as speed, fuel economy, cruising range, and the status of safety equipment, so you won’t have any trouble using it in your daily life.
In fact, the amount of information is well organized, making it easier to concentrate on driving. If you want a large meter, you should consider a higher-end model.
[Disadvantage 5] The rear turn signals and rear room lamps are incandescent (small bulbs)
What’s the problem?
The new Sienta’s front room lamps have been converted to LED, but the following parts still use incandescent bulbs (small bulbs) .
Bulb type parts:
- Rear (rear seat) room lamp
- Luggage lamp
- Rear turn signals
Switching to LED has the following benefits:
- Improved brightness
- Reduced power consumption
- Reduced risk of bulb burnout
- Instant lighting (fast response)
Comparison with rival cars
Honda Freed:
The Freed also has LED lights in the front and incandescent lights in the rear. The conditions are the same.
Suzuki Solio:
The Solio is even stricter, and there is no LED interior lamp setting at all . All are incandescent.
Considering this, it could be said that the Sienta is better off at least having LED lights on the front.
Impact of cost reductions
This is likely a cost-cutting measure to maintain price competitiveness. Converting everything to LED would increase the price of the vehicle, so we can assume that only the front lights, which are used more frequently, were converted to LED.
Practical impact
Impact: ★☆☆☆☆ (low)
To be honest, even if the rear room lamps and luggage lamps are incandescent type, there are hardly any problems in daily use . The brightness is sufficient even with incandescent lamps.
There are no issues with visibility for rear turn signals either. LEDs have a faster response time, which increases the effect of alerting following vehicles, but not to the point where they have a significant impact on safety.
Countermeasures
If you are concerned, you can easily convert to LED by replacing it with an aftermarket LED bulb. The room lamp can be replaced for around 1,000 to 3,000 yen. It is a level that can be done by DIY, so if you are particular about it, it may be a good idea to customize it.
[Disadvantage 6] The biggest drawback is the “long delivery time”
The biggest problem for potential buyers is the long delivery time .
Delivery status as of October 2025
Actual delivery time:
- Normal delivery time: 5 months or more
- Popular grades and colors: Even longer-lasting
- There is a possibility that orders may be suspended.
A minor change in August 2025 saw the standard installation of an electric parking brake and proactive driving assist, significantly improving the product’s appeal and resulting in a flood of orders.
Reference: Toyota Motor Corporation Delivery time
Why is the delivery time so long?
Reasons for long delivery times:
- Overwhelming popularity : Top-class sales in the compact minivan market
- Impact of semiconductor shortage : Increase in electronic control parts such as electric parking brakes
- Capacity Limits : Orders exceeding factory production capacity
- Thorough quality control : Production pace to meet Toyota’s quality standards
Advice for those considering purchasing
Order early:
If you think you want it, we recommend ordering it as soon as possible. In the recent automobile market, the following situations are occurring frequently.
- Sudden order suspension
- Unannounced price increase
- Popular grades and colors continue to be available for a long time
There is a high possibility that the situation will worsen while you wait, so once you have decided to purchase, order without hesitation.
Another option is to look for in-stock cars:
If you absolutely need a car delivered quickly, you can look for cars in dealership inventory (display cars or cancelled cars). They may not exactly match the grade and color you want, but if delivery time is a priority, it’s worth considering.
Sienta review taking into account its shortcomings | What is your overall satisfaction level?
I’ve explained the six drawbacks in detail so far, but I want to emphasize again that these are just minor complaints .
Summary of the impact of drawbacks
| Disadvantages | Impact | Possibility of countermeasures |
|---|---|---|
| ①Digital inner mirror | ★★★☆☆ | △ (Can be replaced with aftermarket parts) |
| ②Door handle position | ★☆☆☆☆ | ◎ (It will be solved with practice) |
| ③Meter information volume | ★★☆☆☆ | × (measures not possible) |
| ④Seatback table | ★★☆☆☆ | ○ (Optional) |
| ⑤ Bulb-type lamp | ★☆☆☆☆ | ○ (Can be converted to LED) |
| ⑥Length of delivery time | ★★★☆☆ | × (measures not possible) |
Highly rated points:
- Easy maneuverability (total width 1,695 mm, minimum turning radius 5.0 m)
- Incredible fuel economy (actual fuel economy of over 22km/L)
- Comprehensive safety equipment (PDA, full-speed ACC, LTA)
- Electric parking brake + auto-hold memory
- Excellent seat arrangement (third row storage under the floor)
- Plenty of storage and comfortable equipment
Considering these attractive features, the six drawbacks are minor issues.
People like this might be concerned about the Sienta’s shortcomings.
On the other hand, the following people may find the new Sienta’s shortcomings somewhat concerning:
People who are easily bothered by their own shortcomings
1. People who need a digital inner mirror
- Use the third row frequently
- Often packed with luggage
- Emphasis on safer rear visibility
Solution: Install an aftermarket digital rearview mirror
2. People who want to have all the latest equipment
- I want daylight
- I want a large digital meter.
- All LED lighting is good
Countermeasure: Consider higher-end models (Noah/Voxy, Alphard)
3. People who need a car delivered immediately
- I can’t wait for long delivery times
- My current car is broken
Solution: Look for a vehicle in stock or consider other models with shorter delivery times.
4. People who prioritize rear seat comfort
- I want seatback tables on both sides
- Emphasis on comfort for children in the car
Solution: Consider the Suzuki Solio (standard equipment)
The charm of the car more than makes up for its shortcomings | Who can recommend the Sienta?
On the other hand, even taking into account its drawbacks, we strongly recommend the new Sienta to the following people:
Who can recommend the Sienta?
1. I want a compact, easy-to-drive minivan.
- Easy handling with an overall width of less than 1.7m
- Small turning radius of 5.0m
- Stress-free even on narrow roads and in parking lots
2. Emphasize fuel efficiency
- Actual fuel economy of over 22km/L
- Economical with regular gasoline specifications
- Want to reduce running costs
3. I want the latest safety equipment
- Proactive Driving Assist
- All-speed radar cruise control
- Electric parking brake + auto hold
4. Flexibility in seat arrangement
- The third row can be stored under the floor for a spacious luggage compartment
- Second-row tumbler ensures maximum load capacity
- Supports a variety of uses
5. Emphasize the reliability of the Toyota brand
- High resale value
- Extensive dealer network
- Long-term peace of mind
Comparison with rival cars | Choices based on drawbacks
Let’s also check out rival cars that may be able to make up for the new Sienta’s shortcomings.
Honda Freed (2024 model)
FREED AIR
Freed’s advantages:
- The ride is somewhat mild
- Daytime running lights (high grade)
- Unique design
Sienta’s advantages:
- Steering wheel heater available
- Large maximum loading capacity (third row stored under the floor)
- Electric parking brake memory function
- Actual fuel economy performance
Conclusion: Even if you are concerned about drawbacks ④ (amount of meter information) and ⑥ (LED), the Sienta is superior overall.
Suzuki Solio (2024 model)
Solio excels at:
- Seat back tables are standard equipment (both sides)
- Even more compact body (total length 3,790mm)
- Low price
Sienta’s advantages:
- Three-row seating available
- Steering wheel heater available
- More comprehensive safety equipment
- Front LED room lamp
Conclusion: If you prioritize the second drawback (seatback table), the Solio is worth considering. However, if you need three rows of seats, the Sienta is the only choice.
Toyota Noah/Voxy
VOXY
Noah/Voxy excels in:
- Digital inner mirror option
- More interior space
- All LED lighting
Sienta’s advantages:
- Compact and easy to drive
- Low price (difference of more than 500,000 yen)
- fuel efficiency
Conclusion: If you prioritize drawback 5 (digital inner mirror) and spaciousness, choose the Noah/Voxy. If you prioritize maneuverability and cost, choose the Sienta.
Check before you buy! 3 questions to determine if you can tolerate flaws
Before you decide to buy the new Sienta, answer these three questions:
Question 1: Do you use the third row often?
If you answered YES:
You may be concerned about the 5th drawback (no digital inner mirror). Consider installing an aftermarket part or compare the Noah/Voxy.
If the answer is NO:
If you don’t use the third row, there’s little need for a digital inner mirror. The Sienta is fine.
Question 2: Do you worry about not having all the latest equipment?
If you answered YES:
You may be concerned about the following drawbacks: 1) No daytime running lights, 4) Amount of meter information, and 6) Bulb-type lamps. This may not be suitable for high-end models or perfectionists.
If NO:
If you’re someone who thinks, “It’d be nice to have it, but I don’t mind not having it,” then you’ll be perfectly satisfied with the Sienta.
Question 3: Can you wait for delivery for more than six months?
If YES:
I highly recommend buying the new Sienta. It’s a car worth the wait.
If NO:
You will need to look for a car in stock or consider other models (including used cars) with shorter delivery times.
Summary: The level of perfection is more of a “compromise” than a “flaw.”
We have thoroughly explained the six drawbacks of the new Sienta, but in conclusion, it can be said that its high level of perfection is more of a “compromise” than a “flaw.”
The nature of the defect
- ① Digital inner mirror → Not necessary if you don’t use the third row
- ② Door handle position → It can be solved by getting used to it, and it’s actually convenient
- ③ Seat back table → Can be added as an option
- ③ Meter information volume → All necessary information is displayed
- ⑤ Bulb-type lamps → No problems with brightness, can be converted to LED
These are all “minor complaints” that you won’t find unless you look for them .
Final Review: A car you won’t regret buying
Overall satisfaction: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5.0)
Although the new Sienta has some minor flaws, its appeal more than makes up for them.
Reasons to buy:
- Easy handling (total width 1,695mm)
- Incredible fuel economy (actual fuel economy of over 22km/L)
- Comprehensive safety equipment (PDA standard equipment)
- 2025 improved electric parking brake + memory function
- Excellent seat arrangement
- Toyota brand reliability and resale value
Considering these advantages, the six drawbacks are easily tolerable.
Long delivery times are “worth the wait”
Although the delivery time of more than six months is certainly long, the new Sienta is “a car worth the wait .” Its appeal far outweighs its drawbacks, and the satisfaction level after delivery is very high.
“Time flies.” Just imagine the comfortable car life you’ll enjoy in the new Sienta when it arrives in six months, and it will be well worth the wait.
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