2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was designed with a rugged exterior that mimicked the look of a traditional SUV, setting it apart from previous generations and most compact crossovers. Its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and scowling front end gave it an aggressive appearance, which contributed to the perception that it was more than just an ordinary vehicle. However, beneath its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was shared with other models like the Camry and Sienna. This meant that while its styling suggested a 4Runner, its mechanical components were more akin to a Camry.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling elements. Despite the sliding side doors that revealed its minivan nature, the Sienna featured a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered door hinges and slides to create a more assertive profile. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering an uncluttered front cabin with ample storage options. The Sienna provided comfortable seating for second- and third-row passengers, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench. The third-row seats could be easily stored away, enhancing the vehicle's versatility.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produced 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and delivered impressive output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4 Trail and TRD Off-Road models featured torque-vectoring AWD and 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, enhancing off-road capability.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available on most trim levels. The AWD system included a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. It offered four selectable drive modes and handled well for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable highway ride. The Sienna Hybrid achieved impressive fuel consumption figures, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a tall, upright roof that provided ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long trips less appealing. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded. The RAV4's interior included oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls, but storage space on the console was limited.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and the sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo. Cargo measurements were 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna had a 3,500-pound towing capacity and featured a 60/40-split third-row bench that stored easily into the floor. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, with most trim levels featuring a 7-inch touchscreen. Trail and Limited models had an 8-inch screen, while the RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly flashy, lacking features like a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It included one USB media port and six USB charging ports throughout the cabin. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not available, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Qi wireless phone charging. Higher trim levels featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. A digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System were available on select models.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, it missed the highest rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 a five-star overall rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover crash tests. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, blind spot monitoring, and an available 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also had 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire.