2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Kia Carnival

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic by incorporating SUV-like styling cues. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a more assertive stance, while the redesigned sliding side doors added a sculpted look. 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.

The 2022 Kia Carnival, entirely new for its model year, distinguished itself with unique design elements across its trims. The Carnival's SUV styling included simulated skid plates, a floating roof design, and roof rails, giving it a modern and appealing look. The EX trim introduced a mirrored grid-pattern grille, 19-inch machined-finish wheels, and SynTex simulated leather. The SX trim added VIP Lounge Seats, textured metal dashboard trim, and real leather, enhancing the Carnival's upscale feel. Despite its minivan roots, the Carnival's design was sharply angular and conservatively tasteful, making it a standout in its segment.

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 employed an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and its fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models rated at 6.5 to 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive only, with no electrified powertrain option. The Carnival's V6 provided smooth and effortless acceleration, and its driving modes included Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart. The Carnival's fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, and it demonstrated a taut and athletic driving experience. However, its ride could feel stiff over certain road surfaces, particularly when lightly loaded.

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 63.5 centimetres of sliding range, enhancing legroom flexibility. The Sienna's cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, while its cargo capacity ranged from 949 to 2,860 litres, depending on seat configuration. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2022 Kia Carnival prioritized practicality with its SUV-style dashboard and centre console. Most trims offered eight-passenger seating, with a versatile second-row bench. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments and an Ottoman-style leg rest. The Carnival's third-row seat was spacious, and its cargo area provided 1,139 litres of volume behind the third row. Folding the third-row seats expanded cargo space to 2,460 litres, and removing the second-row seats increased it to 4,110 litres. The Carnival's smart hands-free power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could occasionally open unintentionally.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna's driver-focused tech included a digital rearview mirror and a multi-information display, with remote keyless entry and push-button start available on higher trims.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim, with the LX featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and traditional analog gauges. Higher trims boasted a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Carnival's tech included a Passenger View camera, wireless smartphone charging, and UVO Link connected services. A comprehensive quick reference guide was provided to help users navigate the Carnival's extensive tech features.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System, blind spot monitoring, and 10 airbags. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The Carnival also included an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist. The IIHS awarded the Carnival a Top Safety Pick rating.