Toyota has been misbehaving lately.  Think big safety recalls, uncomfortable congressional hearings, and messy apologies.  The company went from squeaky-clean honor roll student to detention dweller in just a few short months, leaving behind angry customers and an outraged public.

This third-generation Sienna minivan is the company’s first all-new product to emerge post-scandal and it seems to have picked up a bit of Breakfast Club attitude along the way.  In this case, it’s a welcome change because Toyota has managed to create a minivan that – because of its edgy attitude – is surprisingly desirable.

The new Sienna’s look is striking and far more dramatic than anything else in the segment.  There’s a hungry mouth and sculpted hood up front and scowling taillights that light up like angry robot eyes in back.  This family hauler is aimed straight for Moms and Dads who prefer West Elm modern to Thomasville traditional.

Car shoppers are greeted with five trim levels, ranging from a very affordable $24,260 base model to a wallet-busting, $38,500 Limited model.  Most buyers will likely stay with the mid-range LE or XLE trim levels which adds popular features like a rearview camera, dual power sliding doors, and Bluetooth hands-free phone and music streaming for about $28k – $33k.

Toyota is aiming upscale with this new Sienna and there are many luxury features available if you’re willing to check a few option boxes.  Of note is a new dual-view entertainment system that can display two different video sources side-by-side on its 16-inch screen.  Two 120-volt power outlets ensure a steady supply of electrons for PlayStations and ADD-afflicted children.

Moms and Dads will no doubt appreciate the optional power rear cargo door and power-folding third row seats, which can fold and tumble into a storage well at the touch of a button.  An airy dual-panel moonroof is available if you want to brighten up the luxurious cabin.

Opt for the navigation system and you’ll also receive an upgraded Panorama Camera system that displays a helpful wide-angle view of what’s behind your minivan.  One downside, however, is that the maps for the navigation system come from a DVD instead of a faster hard drive.  That means more lag as you search for a destination or input an address.

One major disappointment is the lack of cargo flexibility from the Sienna’s second row seats.  Though the two main lounge chairs can slide up to 23 inches for extra legroom, they don’t hide away in the floor like Chrysler’s popular Stow ‘n Go system.  You’ll have to remove each 76-pound chair and find a place to store them if you need the extra cargo space.

There is, however, a handy second row jump seat that can provide emergency seating for an eighth passenger in some models.  The jump seat can be removed and stowed in a special cubby when not in use.  Toyota also offers a reclining function with integrated ottoman that makes the second row lounge chairs feel decidedly first-class.

As you’d expect, the 2011 Toyota Sienna comes with a full battery of safety features.  There are front, side, and 3-row curtain air bags, plus a knee air bag for the driver.  On the electronic front, the new Sienna comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control.  An optional Pre-Collision System can apply the brakes automatically to reduce the severity of an impact if an unavoidable collision is detected.

The 2011 Sienna was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety; a prestigious award that requires top scores in frontal offset, side impact, roof crush, and rear crash tests.  And yes, this Toyota also features a brake override system that would cut engine power in the unlikely event of sudden unintended acceleration.

For those looking to trim their fuel costs and carbon footprint, Toyota now offers a 4-cylinder engine with a respectable 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It raises fuel economy to 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, up one and two MPG, respectively, over the available 266-horsepower 6-cylinder engine.

The catch, however, is that Toyota doesn’t make it easy for you to find that 4-cylinder engine.  The company limits availability in certain parts of the country and only offer the 4-cylinder engine on the base and LE trim levels.  Want to add a few options?  Prepare to shell out another $3,500 for the V6 engine and a few other mandatory features.

For those who live in snowy climes, the Sienna is now the only minivan that can be had with all-wheel drive.  Shoppers should note that the system comes only with the V6 engine and that it requires a 7-seater layout.

All in all, the 2011 Toyota Sienna makes for a compelling package.  By virtue of their size, height, features, and kid-friendly sliding doors, minivans are among the absolute best choices for families or anyone else who frequently carries several passengers.  This new Sienna manages to keep all the family-friendly qualities and adds a welcome dose of style and sophistication.

If you’re aiming for a few envious stares at the next PTA meeting, the 2011 Toyota Sienna is a swagger wagon that’s well worth a closer look.