2011 Toyota Sienna (Courtesy of Toyota)

It’s probably not a stretch to say that most people reading this post either own a vehicle with a rearview camera or at least know someone who does. It’s a popular option these days. If you know what you’re looking for (and where to look for it), you can spot the small camera lens on the rear end of nearly every new SUV, crossover, minivan and premium sedan on the road.

So, given the popularity of this relatively new safety feature, it should also come as no surprise that manufacturers are continuously improving the technology. Automakers have to find ways to differentiate their backup camera technology from similar systems offered by the competition. For instance, Lexus offers a backup camera that gives the driver a bird’s eye view of the back end of his or her own car. Volkswagen hides the rearview camera lens on its CC model behind the large VW emblem on the rear decklid. A little James Bond-esque (and I like that); however, it also serves a more practical purpose: to protect the lens from dirt, dust and other road debris that could scratch the glass over time.

Toyota is one of the latest manufacturers to put its own spin on this safety option by adding a Panorama Camera option to the navigation system package on the 2011 Toyota Sienna. The system operates similar to most other rearview camera systems — but what’s really unique is the view. Kelsey Mays, a reviewer at Cars.com, tells us that the Panorama Camera not only displays on-screen back-up guides to show the intended path, but it also “displays a 180-degree view behind the bumper.” And while it’s good for backing out of or into parking spaces, Mays added, “the fisheye lens may take some getting used to.” Just like any other new technology, I suppose.

However, once you do get accustomed to it, you may even decide to use it this way:

And if you’re a parent, I think you’ll want to check out the entire series of Sienna commercials (starting with this one), featuring the “self-proclaimed world’s greatest parents.” I think they’re hilarious!

Well, I thought they were funny, anyway.