The Sienna R-Tuned, a modified stock Toyota Sienna, was entered into One Lap of America 2016, one of the most intense seven-day racing events in the U.S.
To skip ahead to the ending, no, it didn't win. It didn't place first, or second, or third overall. It ranked 21st. Yet, out of 75 entrants, most of which were pure-blooded sports cars like the Viper and GT-R, coming in the top third is a proud moment for a minivan with 150 cubic feet of cargo space.
There is a balance to be struck between the pragmatic, and the exhilarating. Lean sports cars shave off every pound -- every ounce -- that they can in order to be lighter and more aerodynamic. It's fantastic if all you want to do is fly around sharp curves like James Bond chasing bad guys, but less so for bringing home building materials for your next project, or taking the whole family camping.
The Toyota Sienna R-Tuned isn't there to say, "a minivan can replace your 500-horsepower coupe," but it is a reminder that unparalleled cargo room and passenger comforts don't mean giving up on crisp handling, and powerful acceleration.
Want to see what a sophisticated minivan is truly capable of? Visit Trotter Toyota, and browse new Toyota vehicles for sale in Pine Bluff.
