2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, traditionally not known for its style. Toyota's designers infused the Sienna with SUV-like styling, featuring a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that integrated seamlessly with the Toyota logo. The side profile boasted an assertive stance, with re-engineered sliding doors that added a sculpted look, complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches. The rear design maintained a wide and low appearance, with Toyota's renowned fit and finish quality. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a higher seating position than a sedan and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage, and the second and third-row seats provided comfort and flexibility, accommodating adults with ease.

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for a more modern appeal, came in four model series, including the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, stood out with its distinctive Lexus spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. The interior featured NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery, with real leather and open-pore wood trim available in the Executive Package. The F Sport variant distinguished itself with unique design elements like a mesh-pattern grille and sport-bolstered seats. The minimalist interior design focused on simplicity, though some controls integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen were less intuitive. Despite these challenges, the NX provided a comfortable and stylish driving 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, delivering a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an all-wheel-drive option available across all trims. The AWD system utilized a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The Sienna employed an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The minivan offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Handling improvements were notable, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 L/100 km on the highway, while AWD models achieved 6.8 L/100 km city and 6.6 L/100 km highway.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, the NX 350h and NX 450h+, with the latter being a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) delivering 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 km of pure electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport variant added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The turbocharged powertrain provided a rewarding driving experience, with the F Sport variant offering a more dynamic and engaging ride. Fuel consumption for the NX 350 was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km combined, with observed figures slightly higher during spirited driving.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that folded into the floor. The second row offered 63.5 cm of sliding range, enhancing access to the third row and providing flexible legroom. The cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. 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. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate with kick sensors added to the family-friendly features.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, though the new dashboard design created a more intimate feel. The SUV provided comfort with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel, standard in Canada. The F Sport trim featured sport-bolstered seats and additional padding for driver comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed spacious accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The NX's interior design focused on comfort and practicality, with thoughtful storage solutions throughout.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard across all trims, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Connectivity features included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect, with Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The driver benefited from a multi-information display, digital rearview mirror, and Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The NX offered cloud-based services, over-the-air updates, and a digital key feature. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems provided natural voice control, while the navigation system included an offline mode. Despite some limitations, the NX's technology suite was a major advancement for Lexus.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, and automatic high beams. 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 the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System was a notable addition, bringing the vehicle to a safe stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety features were available in packages, enhancing the SUV's comprehensive safety suite.