Family-friendly clash: toyota sienna vs. ford transit connect – which offers the best space and features?

When it comes to family-friendly minivans or versatile cargo vans for business, the Toyota Sienna and Ford Transit Connect stand out as two popular choices. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced features, and reliable performance. However, there are key differences between these two minivans that potential buyers should consider before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the Toyota Sienna vs Ford Transit Connect debate, examining their key features, advantages, and disadvantages to help you make an informed choice.

Interior Space and Seating

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna boasts a spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The second-row captain’s chairs provide ample legroom and comfort, while the third row offers a 60/40 split for flexibility.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect offers two seating configurations: a five-passenger model and a seven-passenger model. The second row features removable seats for customizable cargo space, and the third row provides a 50/50 split.

Cargo Capacity

Toyota Sienna: With all seats folded down, the Sienna provides 101 cubic feet of cargo space. The large sliding doors and low load floor make loading and unloading easy.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect offers a class-leading 129 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats removed. Its tall roofline and wide rear opening provide ample space for oversized items.

Powertrain and Performance

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 296 horsepower. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter inline-four and a 2.5-liter inline-four. The 2.0-liter engine is available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.5-liter engine comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both engines provide adequate power for everyday driving.

Fuel Economy

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect with the 2.0-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the 2.5-liter engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of advanced safety features that includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane centering assist.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect offers Ford Co-Pilot360, a similar suite of safety features that includes pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

Technology and Convenience

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. It also offers a panoramic moonroof, wireless charging, and rear-seat entertainment.

Ford Transit Connect: The Transit Connect comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 4, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It offers a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Price and Value

Toyota Sienna: The Toyota Sienna has a starting price of around $34,000. Higher trim levels offer additional features and amenities, with prices ranging up to around $50,000.

Ford Transit Connect: The Ford Transit Connect has a starting price of around $27,000. Higher trim levels and options can increase the price to around $40,000.

Recommendations: Choosing the Right Minivan for You

Both the Toyota Sienna and Ford Transit Connect offer their unique advantages and disadvantages. The Sienna provides a spacious and comfortable interior, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Transit Connect offers a larger cargo capacity, a more affordable starting price, and removable second-row seats for customizable cargo space. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize space, comfort, and advanced safety features, the Toyota Sienna is a solid choice. If you need a versatile cargo van with a low entry price and customizable seating, the Ford Transit Connect is worth considering.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which minivan has better fuel economy, the Toyota Sienna or the Ford Transit Connect?
A: The Ford Transit Connect with the 2.0-liter engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Toyota Sienna.

Q: Which minivan has a larger cargo capacity, the Toyota Sienna or the Ford Transit Connect?
A: The Ford Transit Connect has a larger cargo capacity than the Toyota Sienna, with 129 cubic feet compared to 101 cubic feet.

Q: Which minivan comes with more advanced safety features, the Toyota Sienna or the Ford Transit Connect?
A: The Toyota Sienna comes with a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features than the Ford Transit Connect, including lane centering assist and automatic emergency braking.