2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays gave it 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 grade. 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 INFINITI QX80 shared a platform with the Nissan Armada, yet distinguished itself with a unique front-end styling featuring the Infiniti grille. The QX80's exterior was tastefully adorned with LED lighting and chrome accents, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 boasted upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline leather seats and wood trim. However, despite its luxurious interior, the QX80's design was beginning to show its age compared to newer competitors. The cabin was comfortable and attractive, but it struggled to meet the high expectations of the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was Toyota's first hybrid minivan, 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 using a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, lacked the punch of a conventional transmission. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and its fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note, though it was notably thirsty. The QX80's seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. With standard four-wheel drive in Canada, the QX80 was capable off-road, aided by a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. Its towing capacity was a generous 3,855 kilograms, and the available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored away. The second row offered flexible legroom with a 63.5-centimetre slide, 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 were 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, with a nearly two-foot step-in height. Inside, the cabin felt spacious, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was less generous than some competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with all seats down. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were convenient but slow to operate.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a wealth of technology features, including a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims added features like 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 higher trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System available on higher trims.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. Notably absent was Infiniti's ProPilot Assist, which was unavailable due to the QX80's older architecture.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a suite of safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. The Sienna also included the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features such as forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model receiving four stars for overall crash protection.