1999 Toyota Sienna 3.0 AT LE 4d

In late 1997, Toyota launched the smaller front wheel drive 1998 Toyota Sienna in the North American market as a replacement for the rather avant-garde mid-engined Toyota Previa (the Previa nameplate is still available in Eurasia, and being sold in Japan as well as in some other nearby markets as the Toyota Estima). The Toyota Sienna debuted with a 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE V6 engine rated at 145 kW and 284N·m (209lb·ft) of torque. Built on an extended platform of the Toyota Camry, the Sienna was appropriately marketed as the "Camry of minivans". The Sienna also touted the best-in-class fuel economy (in miles per gallon) of any minivan which was rated at 18 city/ 24 highway. It was built in Georgetown, Kentucky. Shortly after its release (one year later), the Sienna faced new competition from Toyota's familiar rival Honda with their new ground-breaking Odyssey minivan.

For 2001 model year, the Sienna underwent a minor mid-cycle refresh. This update included a facelift to both front and rear fascias which added a redesigned front grille and bumper along with revised rear taillights sporting a more modern appearance (clear-lens turn-signals as opposed to amber-coloured). Toyota also revamped the center console area to add more usability to the HVAC controls along with new locations for the accessory switches (Rear Vent, Power Sliding Doors, Heated Seats). The engine now came equipped with a Variable valve timing feature VVT-i boosting output to 210hp (157kW) and 220lb·ft (298N·m) torque. This generation was noteworthy for its impressive safety content as one of the few minivans to offer competitive options including anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), traction control and SRS Side-impact airbags.