2011 Toyota Sienna SE - When Toyota had a Cool Minivan

Remember when the Toyota Sienna was all-new and had a sporty SE version? 

I blame the Ford Flex and Mercedes-Benz R-Class for the SE version of the new Toyota Sienna. For 2011, the Sienna was all-new and is still a fairly remarkable minivan. A spacious interior, swoopy new look, remote keyless entry and standard rear parking camera on all but the base model add up to a pretty compelling van.

Stylish Family Wagons

But this time around, there was a new Sienna on the block, the cool cat of minivans if such a thing could ever exist. See, Toyota said the Sienna SE is for those who see themselves as cooler than a minivan, but since they're likely parents, they can't deny minivan usefulness. I say competition from family-friendly and super stylish haulers like the Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, and Mercedes-Benz R-Class led Toyota to such a radical attempt at cool. Family-friendly layout + still want to drive something stylish + Toyota resale value = Sienna SE. At the time, Toyota said, "The SE has a lot of design features not normally seen on a van such as a sportier grille and taillights, tighter-tuned handling, and 18-inch alloy wheels to name a few." Come to think of it, all of those vehicles listed above are still interesting even if used is now the only way to get one. I'd drive a Ford Flex or an R-Class today,

Sunshades and Rap Videos

As much as it kinda seems silly, I have to admit the sporty minivan sorta works. It does feel sportier, and the look is more aggressive with that wide front air dam and rear roof spoiler. I even like the "sport" black-and-white gauges. Plus, it has the features that make minivans so family-friendly anyway - side sunshades, power sliding side doors, fold-flat third-row seating and a large, very useful center storage box. But those useful features sort of miss the point of the Sienna SE - this rap video produced by Toyota says it all.

Still Cool Today 

In the fullness of time, the Swagger Wagon video has held up as a moment in time that's both funny and "I get it" all at once. A new generation of parents, likely, still have the minivan-avoidance disease, but they can laugh at themselves as they pile the whole family into a Ford Expedition or Chevy Suburban. Recent recalls and mechanical issues are taking a toll as well. 

It's also funny how Toyota and Lexus resale value is still shaping consumer decisions - Grand Highlander and TX buyers know the value of reliability. Used van shoppers will find the 2011 Sienna just as capable and interesting as ever. I think this older version of the Sienna has a higher quality interior and a more solid feel overall. However, the 2026 and 2027 Sienna now come only as a hybrid. Is that good? For fuel economy, it is. 

-Brian Moody 

Updated August 2026