2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Ford Expedition

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, presenting a more SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was marked by Toyota's renowned fit and finish, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed, providing ample storage and convenience features, while the second and third-row seats offered flexibility and comfort for passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant exterior styling revisions, including a new grille, headlights, and bumper, giving it a fresh appearance. The rear also saw updates with revised taillights and tailgate trim. The Expedition's interior boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, featuring a large touchscreen display. The cabin offered power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, with a wide console providing ample storage. The second-row captain's chairs and third-row seats ensured comfort, although headroom in the third row could be tight for taller passengers. The Expedition's spacious interior and available features made it a strong contender for those seeking a full-size SUV experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first foray into hybrid minivans, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter utilizing a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna employed an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, providing a comfortable ride. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models achieved 6.8 city and 6.6 highway.

The 2022 Ford Expedition, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, delivered 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kg. Fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Expedition's driving dynamics were enhanced by the Stealth Edition Package's sport-tuned suspension, although the ride quality could be harsh on uneven pavement. The Expedition excelled on highways, providing a quiet and comfortable ride, while its size and visibility made it surprisingly easy to park. However, the twin-turbo's fuel consumption was a consideration for potential buyers.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored into the floor. The second row offered flexible legroom, sliding up to 63.5 centimetres, and the cabin featured 16 cupholders. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo measurements included 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The hybrid's battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to the Sienna's family-friendly features.

The 2022 Ford Expedition provided exceptional comfort, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered ample legroom, while the third-row seats provided outstanding leg support. Cargo space behind the third row measured 546 litres, with the option to expand to 1,627 litres by folding the third row. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity. The Expedition's interior was designed for convenience, with features like a wide console, hidden cupholders, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. The available electric running boards made entry and exit easy, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available SiriusXM. It offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect. Higher trims featured a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on select trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System available on higher trims.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured Ford's next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with a 12-inch or optional 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and FordPass Connect. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging and premium Bang & Olufsen sound systems. The Expedition's technology included Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 and an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. However, the Sync 4A system had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and occasional issues with Apple CarPlay.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, and more. The Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring were standard, along with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and intersection assist. The Platinum trim featured a surround-view camera system and rear automatic emergency braking. Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving technology was available, although the lane-centring assist had some issues with accuracy and reliability.