The next-gen Sienta will go on sale on its domestic market in early September priced between ¥1,960,000 and ¥3,108,000 (roughly U.S. $14,200 – $22,600).

The microvan still uses McPherson suspension struts at the front axle and a torsion beam at the rear, but the platform it runs on is a shortened TNGA. Aside from making the body more rigid, the platform switch unlocks new driver assist features and electronic safeguards.

Designed with an approach known as Shikakumaru in mind from various combinations of circle and square shapes, the vehicle looks laconic and bold. The image is further enhanced by large headlamps, black pillars and a novel radiator grille. The inside space is dominated by a level dashboard with boxy cup holders and air vents.

The dimensions are nearly identical despite the platform change. Buyers will still appreciate the ceiling being 20 mm higher, the door frames 60 mm higher and the tailgate 15 mm larger than before. The sliding doors can be opened remotely from a key fob or by sliding your foot under the side sill.

Five- and seven-seat variants will be available. The manufacturer promises an interior trimmed with a water- and oil-repellant fabric in three colors to choose from. The front seat backs have inbuilt USB-C slots for gadget charging and convenient pockets for the gadgets themselves.

Even in its most basic form, the Sienta comes equipped with a Safety Sense suite capable of recognizing pedestrians, cyclists and bikers. Higher trims unlock a bird’s-view camera for easy parking and satellite navigation with relevant real-time traffic info on display. Two dashcam options and a Wi-Fi hotspot are available at a premium.

Powering the tiny Japanese ride is a Dynamic Force 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a CVT box emulating a ten-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 120 PS (118 hp / 88 kW) and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque. Higher trims will utilize a hybrid powertrain based on the same engine, but dialed down to a combined output of 116 PS (114 hp / 85 kW). E-Four AWD will be a paid option available exclusively for the hybrid spec.