Toyota updated its minivan for 2015 and while most of the changes are cosmetic, like tweaked front-end styling outside and a new control layout and nicer materials inside, parents should be happy about a useful addition to the third row. For 2015, the Toyota Sienna now has two sets of Latch anchors in its third row, up from one.
The 2015 Sienna performed well in our Car Seat Check thanks to loads of legroom room, but hidden second- and third-row tether anchors kept it from earning more top grades. The Sienna is available with a three-passenger second-row bench seat or a pair of captain’s chairs; our model had the captain’s chairs.
How many car seats fit in the second row? Two
How many car seats fit in the third row? Two
What We Like
- Getting into the van and back to the third row was a snap; the step-in height is low and the captain’s chairs easily slide forward a considerable amount, so the opening is adult-sized.
- In both the second and third rows, the booster installed easily and fit well on the seat. We had to remove the second-row head restraint to get a proper fit, but we had no trouble with it. The buckles are on stable bases, making it easier for kids to buckle up independently.
- Both the rear-facing infant and convertible seats went in easily and had ample room thanks to a ton of sliding seat travel. There was no need to move the front passenger seat forward to accommodate either seat.
- After removing the captain’s chair’s head restraint, the forward-facing convertible installed easily and fit well on the seat.
What We Don’t
- In both rows, the Latch anchors were a bit tough to access. They sit about an inch into the seat bight, and we had to use a good deal of force to push past the seat cushions.
- Although the second-row tether anchors were easy to use, they’re at the base of the seatbacks and not visible; parents might not remember to use them, which is a safety risk.
- In the third row, we appreciate the extra set of Latch anchors, but because one set of anchors is in the middle of the larger portion of the 60/40 split bench, the bench is only usable for two passengers instead of three because the car seat takes up two positions.
- The third row’s two tether anchors may also be difficult for parents to find because they’re at the bottom lip of the seatback. They’re also close to the cargo area’s luggage hooks, which could be confusing.
