2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, 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 featured practical storage solutions, and the second and third-row seats provided ample comfort and flexibility for passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey maintained a classic minivan design with a touch of style, particularly in the Touring trim with its dark grey 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The Odyssey's interior was designed for family convenience, featuring quality leather upholstery, supportive front seats, and a tri-zone climate control system. The Magic Slide second-row seats offered versatile configurations, enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the Odyssey's cargo space was impressive, with a well in the floor to prevent items from rolling out. Overall, the Odyssey provided a practical and comfortable environment for families.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was Toyota's first hybrid minivan, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter using a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) aimed to deliver smooth power and maximize fuel efficiency, though it sometimes dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and its fuel efficiency was a standout feature, with FWD models rated at 6.6 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivered 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with pushbutton controls and was only available in front-wheel drive. The Odyssey's fuel consumption was estimated at 10.6 L/100 km combined, higher than the Sienna's hybrid efficiency. However, the Odyssey offered a more engaging driving experience, with responsive handling and quick acceleration. Despite its enjoyable driving character, the Odyssey's brakes were prone to heating up on downhill grades, affecting performance.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row seat that folded into the floor and a second row that slid up to 63.5 centimetres. The Sienna offered ample storage, with 16 cupholders and the ability to carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. Its cargo space was flexible, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey provided easy access with wide-opening doors and a low ride height. Its interior featured quality materials, supportive seats, and numerous storage options. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for versatile configurations, enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility. The Odyssey's cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row and up to 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed. However, the seats were heavy and challenging to reinstall.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a wealth of technology features, including a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims added features like a Premium Audio + JBL package, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a digital rearview mirror. The Sienna also included a range of connectivity options and a 1500-watt inverter for powering devices.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey's technology package was less impressive, with an 8-inch touchscreen and standard connectivity features. The Touring trim added CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems, a rear entertainment system, and an 11-speaker audio system. However, the Odyssey's infotainment system was considered outdated, with a small screen and limited voice command functionality.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey included Honda Sensing as standard, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, the system lacked refinement, sometimes issuing invalid warnings. The Odyssey also received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.