The minivan segment has long been known for its practicality and family-friendly features. Yet, with the arrival of the 2025 Toyota Sienna, this class of vehicles is taking a major leap forward in terms of innovation and safety technology. Toyota is introducing a groundbreaking radar-based Advanced Rear Seat Reminder system, making it the first vehicle in their lineup to not only alert drivers but also call their smartphone if the system detects someone left in the back seat. This upgrade, along with other premium features, sets a new standard for family safety and convenience.

Toyota’s Life-Saving Tech in An Advanced Rear Seat Reminder

Safety remains a critical concern for families, and Toyota has addressed one of the most devastating risks—children or pets being left in hot vehicles. While many cars have simple systems that remind drivers to check the rear seats, the 2025 Sienna is breaking new ground with its radar-based system that can go far beyond a simple chime.

Using a 60GHz radar scanner located in the headliner, the system monitors both the second and third rows for movement. If the vehicle is locked and someone is detected in the back seat, the system follows a sequence of escalating alerts. First, it flashes the hazard lights and sounds the door locks’ chime nine times. If ignored for 90 seconds, the horn blares. After four minutes, the driver will receive a text notification via Toyota’s smartphone app. Two minutes later, if there’s still no response, an automated call is made to the driver’s phone.

The system also adapts to unlocked vehicles, extending the timeline before sending alerts, but the process remains equally vigilant. This new technology isn’t limited to high-end models—it comes standard across all trims, from the entry-level LE to the luxurious Platinum. It’s backed by a 10-year subscription to Toyota’s Safety Connect, ensuring long-term reliability.

2025 Sienna’s Tech and Luxury Upgrades

Beyond the new safety tech, the 2025 Sienna is packed with luxurious features to make family road trips even more enjoyable. The mid-level XSE, Woodland Edition, Limited, and Platinum trims now come with a sleek 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, giving drivers a modern, customizable display that enhances the driving experience.

Toyota is also reintroducing a couple of beloved convenience features: the in-car vacuum and fridge. Initially introduced with the fourth-generation Sienna in 2021, these items were temporarily discontinued due to the original supplier going out of business. Now, they’re back—standard on the Platinum trim and available on the Limited. These features add a touch of practicality that’s perfect for keeping the vehicle tidy and your drinks cool during long drives.

The interior of the 2025 Sienna also gets an upgrade, with refined materials used throughout the cabin, including the seats, console, and dashboard. Coupled with new wheel designs and Toyota’s latest multimedia system, these changes ensure the Sienna stays modern and competitive in the family vehicle market.

Powertrain Remains Unchanged

Toyota continues to rely on the Sienna’s tried-and-true hybrid drivetrain, which combines a 2.5-liter inline-four engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 245 horsepower. Both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options are available, providing flexibility for different driving preferences. While some may have hoped for a performance boost, the hybrid system remains one of the Sienna’s strongest assets, delivering excellent fuel economy, especially for long family trips.

A Minivan Built for the Future

The 2025 Toyota Sienna has transformed the way we think about family transportation. By introducing cutting-edge safety technology like the radar-based Advanced Rear Seat Reminder and coupling it with luxurious features, Toyota has redefined the modern minivan. With an eye on both convenience and life-saving innovations, the Sienna is not just a practical choice but a smart one for families who value safety and comfort.

This model proves that minivans can do more than just offer space—they can pioneer the future of family travel with technology that makes a real difference. Toyota’s 2025 Sienna sets a new bar for what minivans can achieve, making it a standout choice for parents who need peace of mind on the road.