The second-generation Toyota Sienna FWD (XL20) marked a big step up from the first-gen van. Built on a new, larger platform and powered by the 3MZ-FE 3.3 litre V6, it combines strong performance with the long-haul durability families expect from Toyota. With about 230 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque, the Sienna finally had the power to match its expanded size, and the five-speed automatic helped both drivability and fuel economy.
Inside, the XL20 introduced the fold-into-floor third row, more cabin space, and noticeably better refinement. Sliding-door operation improved, crash protection was upgraded, and higher trims added features that felt genuinely premium in the early 2000s. At the same time, age, mileage and climate now matter more than brochure promises. This guide focuses on the front-wheel-drive XL20 Sienna with the 3.3 litre 3MZ-FE from roughly 2003–2005 production, looking at specs, reliability, safety, maintenance planning and how it stacks up as a used buy today.
Owner Snapshot
- Strong 3.3 l 3MZ-FE V6 (about 230 hp, 242 lb-ft) gives confident acceleration even with seven or eight passengers.
- Second-generation XL20 body brings more interior space, improved refinement and the useful fold-flat third row.
- Excellent crash performance for its time, plus available side airbags and stability control on many higher trims.
- Watch for timing belt neglect, steering rack leaks and sliding door hardware wear on older, high-mileage vans.
- Treat 5,000 miles / 8,000 km or 6 months as a sensible engine oil and filter interval to protect the 3MZ-FE.
Contents and shortcuts
- Toyota Sienna XL20 FWD profile
- XL20 Sienna technical specifications
- Sienna XL20 grades and safety
- Long term reliability of XL20
- XL20 maintenance schedule and buying
- XL20 driving dynamics and economy
- How Sienna XL20 compares
Toyota Sienna XL20 FWD profile
The XL20 Sienna launched as a full redesign over the original XL10 van. Production for the second generation began in 2003 for the 2004 model year, and this article focuses on the early front-wheel-drive 3.3 litre versions up through about 2005. Compared with the first generation, the XL20 body is longer, wider and stiffer, with a wheelbase stretched to around 3,030 mm and overall length close to 5,080 mm. That extra size went straight into cabin space, especially the third row and cargo area.
The 3MZ-FE 3.3 litre V6 is a key part of the XL20’s character. It is an all-aluminium, 60-degree V6 with dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing on the intake side (VVT-i). In Sienna tune it produces around 230 hp at 5,600 rpm and about 242 lb-ft of torque at roughly 3,500–3,600 rpm. That is a notable bump over the earlier 3.0 litre engines, and the torque arrives earlier, which is exactly what a loaded minivan needs.
The transmission is a five-speed electronically controlled automatic driving the front wheels. All-wheel drive was available in the XL20 range, but this guide concentrates on the more common and mechanically simpler FWD models. The five-speed box improves both performance and fuel efficiency compared with the old four-speed, allowing lower cruising revs and closer ratios for acceleration.
Inside, the XL20 moved the Sienna firmly into the “modern” minivan era. Depending on trim, you get a configurable second row (bench or captain’s chairs) and the famous 60/40 split “fold-into-floor” third row, which turns the rear of the van into a flat load space without removing seats. This is a major practical advantage over the first generation, where you had to lift heavy seats out of the vehicle.
Toyota also paid attention to refinement and safety. The cabin uses better sound insulation, tighter body sealing and more sophisticated suspension tuning, so the van feels more like a large car than a commercial vehicle. On the safety side, dual front airbags are standard, and many vans are equipped with seat-mounted side airbags and curtain-type airbags, plus stability control and traction control. Taken together, the XL20 FWD Sienna is a significant step forward in comfort, performance and protection.
XL20 Sienna technical specifications
This section compiles key technical data for the second-generation Toyota Sienna FWD with the 3MZ-FE 3.3 litre V6 (roughly 2003–2005 production for 2004–2005 model years). Figures can vary slightly by trim and market; always verify against the plate and documentation for your vehicle.
Engine and performance (3MZ-FE)
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine code | 3MZ-FE |
| Type | 60° V6, DOHC, 24 valves, aluminium block and heads |
| Displacement | 3.3 l (3,310 cc) |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 83.0 mm |
| Compression ratio | Approximately 10.8 : 1 |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) |
| Valve timing | VVT-i on intake camshafts |
| Max power | ~230 hp (172 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Max torque | ~242 lb-ft (328 Nm) @ ~3,600 rpm |
| Recommended fuel | Unleaded gasoline; 87 AKI usually acceptable, higher octane may be recommended |
| Emissions standard (period) | US LEV / ULEV, Euro 3/4 equivalent in some markets |
| Typical EPA economy (FWD) | Around 19 mpg city / 26–27 mpg highway |
The 3MZ-FE shares much architecture with the 1MZ-FE but increases displacement and compression. It uses a timing belt to drive the camshafts and water pump.
Transmission and driveline
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 5-speed automatic, electronically controlled |
| Typical code | U151E (FWD applications) |
| Drive type | Front-wheel drive |
| 1st / 2nd / 3rd / 4th / 5th | Approx. 3.94 / 2.20 / 1.49 / 1.00 / 0.72 |
| Reverse | Approx. 3.54 |
| Final drive ratio | Around mid-3s (varies with trim and year) |
| Differential | Open front differential |
| Towing capacity | Up to about 1,587 kg (3,500 lb) braked when properly equipped |
The drivetrain is transverse-mounted, with the transaxle combining the gearbox and front differential in a single housing.
Chassis and dimensions
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | Dedicated minivan platform related to K-platform cars |
| Front suspension | MacPherson strut, coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion-beam axle with coil springs, anti-roll bar |
| Steering | Rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assistance |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Discs or drums depending on trim and market |
| Wheels | 16-inch alloys or steel (e.g. 215/65 R16 tyres) |
| Overall length | ~5,080 mm (200.0 in) |
| Overall width | ~1,970 mm (77.4 in) |
| Overall height | ~1,750 mm (68.9 in) |
| Wheelbase | ~3,030 mm (119.3 in) |
| Curb weight (FWD) | Roughly 1,880–2,000 kg (4,150–4,400 lb) depending on trim |
| Fuel tank | About 79 l (21 US gal) |
| Seating | 7 or 8 passengers depending on configuration |
Interior volumes vary by seating configuration, but the XL20 is significantly roomier than the XL10, particularly in the third row and cargo area with the third row in use.
Performance and capability
| Metric | Value (approximate, FWD 3.3 V6) |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | Around 8.3–8.8 s |
| Top speed | About 175–180 km/h (109–112 mph) governed |
| 80–120 km/h passing | Approximately 6–7 s in suitable gear |
| Maximum tow rating | Up to 3,500 lb (≈1,587 kg) with tow package |
| Typical payload | Roughly 550–650 kg (1,200–1,430 lb) including occupants |
Fluids, service capacities and electrical (typical values)
Always check the owner’s manual or service information for your exact model year and market.
| System | Specification | Approximate capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | 5W-30 meeting Toyota gasoline engine spec | ~4.7 l (5.0 US qt) with filter |
| Engine coolant | Toyota long-life or super long-life coolant | ~8–9 l system total |
| Automatic transmission fluid | Toyota ATF (Type T-IV or WS depending on year/market) | ~6–8 l for full refill |
| Power steering | ATF-type fluid | < 1 l (top-up as required) |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 or DOT 4 | ~0.7–0.9 l for full flush |
| A/C refrigerant | R-134a | ~0.65–0.75 kg |
| 12 V battery | Typical group size battery around 550–650 CCA | — |
| Alternator | Roughly 120–130 A output depending on equipment | — |
| Spark plugs | Long-life iridium/platinum, gap ~1.0–1.1 mm | 6 plugs |
Sienna XL20 grades and safety
The early XL20 Sienna FWD range for 2004–2005 is built around three main trims: CE, LE and XLE, plus higher-spec Limited variants in some markets. All share the same basic 3.3 litre drivetrain in FWD form, so differences are in seating, equipment and safety features.
Trims and equipment overview
CE
The CE is the simplest and usually the cheapest used buy:
- Cloth upholstery, basic stereo, manual climate control in many examples.
- Steel wheels with covers, more black exterior trim, fewer convenience features.
- Seven- or eight-passenger seating depending on configuration.
- Power features (locks, windows, mirrors) may be more limited on base models.
LE
The LE is often the best all-round choice:
- Power windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control, better sound system.
- Available 8-passenger seating with a removable small centre seat in the second row.
- Alloy wheels or styled steel wheels, body-colour bumpers and additional interior trim.
- Many LEs include power right sliding door; some have both sides powered.
- Rear-seat entertainment and upgraded audio offered in option packages.
XLE and Limited
These trims target buyers wanting comfort and luxury features:
- Automatic tri-zone climate control, higher-grade upholstery (including leather on many XLE/Limited vans).
- Power sliding doors (often both sides) and available power tailgate.
- Power driver’s seat, sometimes power passenger seat, with memory on top trims.
- Premium audio, sunroof, wood-tone interior accents and additional sound insulation.
For the FWD XL20, mechanical differences between trims are minor. Suspension, brakes and engine are broadly the same, but wheel and tyre packages and weight differences can modestly affect ride and handling.
Safety systems and ratings
The XL20 Sienna was designed from the start with modern crash standards in mind. Early FWD models offer:
- Dual front airbags as standard.
- Front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters.
- LATCH/ISOFIX-style child seat anchors for second-row positions and tether anchors for the third row.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) standard on most models.
Important options and packages:
- Seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows available on many LE and XLE trims. Vans equipped with these airbags usually perform better in side-impact testing.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control available, often bundled with higher trims or specific safety/handling packages.
Crash testing from major organisations classifies the 2004+ Sienna as one of the stronger performers in its class for frontal impact, with an overall “Good” frontal rating and well-controlled cabin deformation. Side-impact results depend heavily on side airbag fitment; vans without side airbags score lower on side tests than those with them. Rollover risk scores are typical for a large minivan, reflecting the higher centre of gravity compared with cars.
For a prospective buyer, the key is to verify which safety features the specific van has. A FWD XL20 Sienna with side and curtain airbags plus VSC is materially safer than a base CE without those options. Checking the build sheet by VIN or visually confirming airbag labels on seat bolsters and B-pillars is worthwhile before purchase.
Long term reliability of XL20
The XL20 Sienna has generally strong reliability, especially in FWD form, but certain patterns emerge now that these vans are two decades old. A smart owner or buyer looks beyond the Toyota badge and examines how the van was maintained and in what conditions it lived.
Engine and ancillaries
The 3MZ-FE is capable of high mileages with appropriate care. Common topics include:
- Timing belt and water pump
The 3MZ-FE uses a timing belt, not a chain. Toyota’s recommended interval is around 90,000 miles (145,000 km) or 7 years. Many technicians replace the water pump, idlers, tensioner and front seals at the same time. Neglected belts risk breakage, which can bend valves and ruin the engine. - Oil leaks and consumption
Valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals and the front crank seal can seep with age. Left unchecked, leaks can contaminate belts and mounts. Oil consumption may increase on higher-mileage engines, especially if oil changes were stretched. Monitoring oil level between services and addressing leaks early helps preserve longevity. - Cooling system
Radiators, hoses and water pumps age. Early signs of trouble include coolant staining, low coolant in the reservoir, intermittent heat and creeping operating temperatures. Proactive coolant changes and inspection help avoid overheating, which can quickly damage aluminium heads. - Intake and emissions components
Throttle bodies can accumulate deposits causing unsteady idle or hesitation; cleaning often helps. Oxygen sensors and catalytic converters eventually wear out, leading to check-engine lights and emissions test failures.
Transmission, driveline and steering
The five-speed automatic is fairly robust in FWD Siennas when serviced and not abused by heavy towing:
- ATF breakdown from heat and age can contribute to harsh shifts, flare between gears or delayed engagement. Gentle, periodic drain-and-refills with the correct ATF are preferred over aggressive power flushing on high-mileage units.
- Driveshaft and CV joint wear appears as clicking on tight turns or vibration under load; replacement is straightforward.
- Power steering racks on some vans develop fluid leaks or internal wear. Symptoms include a growing need to top up fluid, wet subframe areas and looser-feeling steering. Rack replacement is not cheap but is a known ageing issue.
Suspension, brakes and structure
Most XL20 Siennas on the road today are due—or overdue—for suspension refresh work:
- Worn struts and shocks lead to floaty ride, nose-dive and uneven tyre wear.
- Control arm bushings, ball joints and stabiliser links can clunk or knock over bumps when worn.
- Rear suspension bushings also age, contributing to vague handling.
Brakes are conventional and straightforward to service, but rust in salty climates can seize caliper slide pins or cause backing plates and parking brake mechanisms to degrade.
Corrosion varies greatly by region. Look closely at rear wheel arches, door bottoms, tailgate edges, front subframe and suspension mounting points. The XL20 generally holds up better than some domestic rivals but is not immune to structural rust in harsh climates.
Body, doors and interior
The dual sliding doors remain a defining feature but also a wear point:
- Manual doors may suffer from worn rollers and dirty tracks, making them heavy or noisy.
- Power sliding doors can develop cable, motor or latch issues, especially if not lubricated or if used as grab handles.
Inside, common age-related issues include worn seat fabrics on high-use vans, sagging headliners in sun-exposed climates, and intermittent power window or lock actuators. These are rarely catastrophic but matter when budgeting for reconditioning.
Recalls and service campaigns
The XL20 Sienna has had several recalls over its life for issues such as fuel tank concerns, sliding door latches and spare tyre cable corrosion. Many were addressed early in the vehicle’s life, but not all vans will have complete records. The safest approach is to run the VIN through the official recall database in your region and confirm completion with a dealer or service printout.
When evaluated honestly, a FWD XL20 Sienna with good maintenance history and low rust exposure can be a very durable long-term vehicle. The main risks lie in neglected timing belts, chronic oil leaks, tired suspension and hidden structural corrosion rather than inherent design flaws.
XL20 maintenance schedule and buying
A practical maintenance plan for an ageing XL20 Sienna FWD should balance manufacturer recommendations with the realities of age and unknown history. The following intervals are sensible baselines; adjust for severe use or specific guidance in your manual.
Practical maintenance schedule
- Engine oil and filter
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months using a quality oil and filter. High-mileage or short-trip usage may justify even shorter intervals. - Engine air filter
Inspect annually; replace about every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or sooner in dusty environments. - Cabin air filter
Replace every 15,000–20,000 miles (24,000–32,000 km) or 1–2 years. - Spark plugs
Long-life iridium or platinum plugs are usually specified around 90,000–100,000 miles (145,000–160,000 km). Consider earlier replacement if misfires appear. - Timing belt, tensioner, idlers and water pump
Around 90,000 miles (145,000 km) or 7 years is a sensible change point, earlier if history is unknown. Combine with replacement of front oil seals if they show any seepage. - Coolant
Toyota long-life coolant often has an initial long interval (e.g. up to 100,000 miles), then shorter intervals afterwards. On an older van, changing it every 5 years or 80,000–100,000 km is prudent. - Automatic transmission fluid
A drain and refill every 30,000–60,000 miles (50,000–100,000 km) helps transmission longevity. Avoid aggressive flushes on very high-mileage, neglected units. - Brake fluid
Replace every 2–3 years regardless of mileage to prevent internal corrosion and maintain pedal feel. - Brake hardware
Inspect pads, rotors and rear mechanisms yearly; more often if towing or driving in mountains. - Serpentine belt and hoses
Inspect at every oil change. Replace belts that show cracking, glazing or noise; replace hoses that feel hard, swollen or cracked. - Steering, suspension and alignment
Check at least every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or every 2 years. Refresh worn struts, bushings and ball joints as needed. - Tyres
Rotate every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km). Check pressures monthly. - 12 V battery
Test annually after four years in service; replace when cranking slows or test numbers drop.
Buyer’s guide: what to inspect
If you are evaluating a used XL20 Sienna FWD:
- Documentation
- Look for records of oil changes, timing belt/water pump, transmission fluid and coolant services.
- Verify that recalls have been addressed where possible.
- Engine
- Lift the oil filler cap and inspect for thick sludge.
- Check for oil leaks at the timing cover, valve covers and oil pan.
- Listen for excessive valve train noise or knocking at cold start.
- Transmission
- Test drive from cold; shifts should be smooth with no slipping or harshness.
- Inspect ATF colour and smell; very dark, burnt-smelling fluid suggests neglect.
- Cooling and heating
- Confirm the van reaches normal operating temperature and the heater works well.
- Look for coolant residue and stains under the radiator and around hose joints.
- Suspension and steering
- Drive over varied surfaces and listen for clunks or rattles.
- Check that the steering is neither overly vague nor wandering on the highway.
- Brakes
- Evaluate pedal feel and stopping distance. Pulsation suggests warped rotors; pull to one side can indicate sticking calipers or uneven pads.
- Body, rust and doors
- Inspect wheel arches, sills, underbody and subframes for corrosion.
- Test both sliding doors multiple times, from inside and outside, to assess smoothness and latching.
- Interior and electrics
- Confirm operation of air conditioning, rear HVAC, all windows, locks, seat adjustments and audio systems.
Which XL20 Sienna to choose
For most buyers, a FWD LE or XLE with complete maintenance records and side/curtain airbags represents a strong balance of safety, comfort and cost. A slightly higher-mileage van with perfect rust and service history is usually a better long-term bet than a low-mileage example with unknown belt history, tired fluids and visible corrosion. With these vans now firmly in “older used” territory, individual condition overtakes model-year differences.
XL20 driving dynamics and economy
On the road, the XL20 Sienna FWD feels like a refined, quietly capable family shuttle rather than a sporty machine, and that is exactly its mission. The 3.3 litre V6 is smooth and strong, delivering relaxed low-end pull and steady highway passing power. Full-throttle acceleration is more than adequate for a minivan, but in daily use the engine spends most of its time at modest revs, where it is barely audible.
The five-speed automatic plays a major role in this calm character. It typically shifts early and smoothly, keeping revs in the mid-range for efficiency. Kickdown for overtakes is prompt enough, especially in FWD form without the extra weight of all-wheel drive. If you live in hilly country, manually selecting lower gears when descending long grades can help control speed and spare the brakes.
Ride comfort is very good. The long wheelbase and well-tuned suspension soak up expansion joints and rough patches with little fuss. On older vans with tired dampers, the ride can become soft and slightly floaty; fresh struts and good tyres bring back the composure. Road and wind noise are well controlled for a vehicle of this size, with higher trims feeling particularly quiet thanks to extra insulation and better glass.
Handling is predictable rather than sporty. The Sienna leans in corners but maintains secure grip, and the steering, while not rich in feedback, is accurate and light enough for effortless parking. Front-wheel drive versions feel a bit lighter and more agile than their AWD counterparts, particularly in city use. On the highway, straight-line stability is strong, and crosswinds are handled with confidence as long as suspension components are in good condition.
Real-world fuel economy for a FWD XL20 3.3 V6 typically falls around:
- City use: approximately 13–15 l/100 km (16–18 mpg US) in congestion.
- Highway at 100–120 km/h: around 9–10 l/100 km (23–26 mpg US), depending on load and driving style.
- Mixed driving: commonly 11–12 l/100 km (19–21 mpg US).
Roof boxes, large trailers, aggressive acceleration and high speeds will raise consumption. On the other hand, gentle driving and well-maintained components can produce results close to official ratings.
When towing within rated limits, the Sienna remains stable, especially with a properly set up trailer and weight distribution. However, braking distances increase, and transmission and coolant temperatures climb more quickly on hills. Using lower gears for engine braking and observing conservative speeds preserves both safety and mechanical health.
Overall, the XL20 FWD Sienna offers a comfortable, predictable and refined driving experience that suits long family trips and daily commuting alike. It is not exciting in the enthusiast sense, but it is composed and confidence-inspiring, which matters more for a vehicle tasked with transporting people and cargo in all weather.
How Sienna XL20 compares
The second-generation Sienna entered a market filled with capable minivans: Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, Ford Freestar and others. Understanding where the XL20 FWD 3.3 V6 stands among these helps clarify whether it fits your needs.
Versus Honda Odyssey (2002–2004 era)
The Odyssey of this period is often praised for its strong V6 performance and car-like handling. It also offers a highly flexible interior and a reputation for a pleasant driving experience. However, certain model years of Odyssey have a known vulnerability in automatic transmission reliability, with some owners experiencing costly failures.
The Sienna XL20 FWD is generally seen as:
- Slightly less sharp to drive but more refined and quieter.
- Competitive in interior space, especially with the fold-flat third row.
- Often more robust in transmission and engine longevity when serviced on time.
For families prioritising reliability and low running costs over maximum steering feel, the Sienna gains an advantage.
Versus Chrysler Town & Country / Dodge Grand Caravan (early 2000s)
Chrysler’s vans remain popular for their low purchase cost and clever cabin features. Stow-and-go seating in later models is a major convenience. However, older examples often show more transmission issues, rust and electrical gremlins.
The XL20 Sienna tends to offer:
- Better long-term drivetrain reliability.
- Stronger resale values, reflecting owner confidence.
- Simpler, often more robust electronics.
A Chrysler van can make sense if you prioritise initial price and flexible seating, but for long-haul, low-drama ownership, the Sienna is usually the safer choice.
Versus Ford Freestar / Windstar successors
Ford’s later minivans improved on earlier designs but still carry a mixed record for powertrain and rust issues. Against them, the XL20 Sienna usually wins on reliability perceptions, interior quality and resale, although the Ford may cost less to buy used.
Versus early Kia Sedona and other budget vans
Early-2000s Sedonas provide plenty of features and power for the money but typically lag behind the Sienna in durability, corrosion resistance and parts supply in some markets. If budget is extremely tight and you are comfortable performing repairs yourself, such vans can work, but they rarely match a well-kept Sienna for peace of mind.
Versus later Sienna generations
Compared with the third-generation models, the XL20 lacks some modern safety tech, updated styling, and later powertrain options. However, many owners appreciate its simpler electronics, proven 3.3 V6, and lower purchase prices. It also avoids some of the more complex systems and options introduced later.
In sum, a FWD XL20 Sienna 3.3 V6 occupies a sweet spot: more modern, powerful and spacious than first-generation vans, yet simpler and often more affordable than newer models. For buyers who want a reliable, comfortable family vehicle and can accept older safety tech and fuel economy, it remains a very strong contender in the used minivan market.
References
- 2004 Sienna – Owners’s Manual 2004 (Owner’s Manual)
- 2005 Sienna – Owners’s Manual 2005 (Owner’s Manual)
- 2004 Toyota Sienna Minivan 2004 (Safety Rating)
- 2004 Toyota Sienna – Specs, Prices, MPG, Reviews & Photos 2004 (Specifications)
- Toyota Sienna 2024 (Model Overview)
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, repair or safety advice. Specifications, torque values, fluid types, service intervals and procedures can vary by VIN, production date, market and installed equipment. Always confirm critical information using the official Toyota service documentation, owner’s manual and applicable technical bulletins for your specific vehicle, and consult a qualified technician before performing maintenance or repairs.
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