2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Toyota Sienna 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 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 Kia EV6 boasted a sportier and more svelte design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its lower and wider stance, along with a highback tail and lip spoiler, gave it a dynamic appearance. The EV6's voluptuous curves and sharp, wedgy profile were complemented by unique features like recessed lights and a hidden rear charge port. Inside, the EV6 featured a futuristic interior with dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and ambient lighting. The seats, covered in suede and leather, provided a comfortable and stylish environment, while the digital controls and hockey-puck shifter added to the car's modern appeal.

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 automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, sometimes dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and its fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered a powerful performance with 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The EV6's dual-motor setup provided seamless torque distribution, enhancing its handling capabilities. However, its driving range was affected by cold weather, with the EV6 achieving only 65 percent of its estimated range in winter conditions. The EV6 excelled in charging capabilities, accepting up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times varied based on available infrastructure.

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 63.5 centimetres of sliding capability, enhancing legroom and accessibility. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. It offered 949 litres of cargo space 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 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles and a twisting rotary shifter. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, its cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it offered an onboard power generator for additional utility.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with SiriusXM and multiple USB ports. It included a range of connectivity features, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect, and offered a Premium Audio + JBL package on higher trims. The Sienna's driver-focused technology included a colour multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on select models.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a focus on connectivity. It featured a 360-degree surround-view camera system, customizable "engine" sounds, and an augmented reality head-up display. The EV6's tech package included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking assist system, providing a comprehensive suite of features.

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

The 2022 Kia EV6, while lacking published test results, offered a robust suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims included additional features like rear cross-traffic alert and 360 cameras.