The 2015 Toyota Sienna LE gets 21 MPG combined. It’s not Prius-like, but it’s what families accept for the space, versatility, and reliability of this minivan. These buyers want to haul hockey gear, band instruments, and kids on road trips without fighting. The Sienna LE does that, and 21 MPG is a compromise most accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Sienna LE gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure is lower because of stop-and-go traffic and inefficiencies of city driving, where the V6 engine idles or accelerates. The Sienna’s weight also contributes to this. The 27 MPG highway rating shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at speed, aided by the smooth six-speed automatic transmission.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Toyota Sienna LE at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices when calculated. Fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and gasoline grade. $2,500 may seem high versus smaller vehicles, but it’s what you pay for the Sienna’s utility and passenger capacity.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA has standardized tests, real-world fuel economy changes. Expect numbers below 19 MPG in city driving, especially loaded with passengers and cargo. On long highway trips at a steady speed, you might reach or exceed 27 MPG. Aggressive driving, short trips, and poor maintenance will hurt fuel economy. You can find all Toyota fuel economy data here, and SIENNA MPG across all years to compare the differences that different years have in fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2015 Sienna’s fuel economy is similar to other minivans of its time. The Honda Odyssey, its main rival, got 19 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. The Chrysler Town & Country, also a V6, had similar numbers. Newer minivans, especially hybrid powertrains like the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (82 MPGe combined), get much better fuel economy, but cost more. The Sienna balances capability, reliability, and price for families, even if it isn’t most efficient.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Sienna’s 3.5L V6 works best with smooth acceleration; don’t start fast or use too much throttle to save fuel. Watch traffic to avoid braking and accelerating.

Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes.

Remove extra weight from the vehicle. Less weight means the engine works less, improving fuel economy. Every pound counts in a big vehicle like the Sienna.

Maintenance is important for fuel efficiency. Keep the engine tuned, the air filter clean, and the oil changed as recommended. A well-maintained engine is more efficient.

On long highway drives, consider cruise control. Maintaining speed can improve fuel economy versus changing your speed. Pay attention to traffic, though.