2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, 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, enhancing the vehicle's overall appeal. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches complemented the design, while the rear maintained a wide and low appearance, characteristic of Toyota's high-quality fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage, cupholders, and a bridge-like structure that provided additional space for personal items. The second and third-row seats were designed for adult comfort, with the second row offering sliding capabilities for maximum utility.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, presenting a rugged appearance with its trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, the side design introduced a character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making the Highlander appear somewhat bloated. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that added visual interest and storage functionality. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned for easy access, and the Bronze Edition introduced unique design elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery. However, the fabric's durability was questionable, and the Softex synthetic leather felt more like vinyl. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was notably less comfortable, with minimal headroom and legroom.

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, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Sienna offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter utilizing a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery, though it lacked the punch of a conventional transmission. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, minimizing body roll and ensuring a comfortable ride. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models achieved slightly higher figures.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid shared the same 2.5-litre engine and hybrid system, also producing 243 horsepower. It featured standard all-wheel drive, with the electric motor powering the rear axle for additional traction. The Highlander accelerated to 100 kilometres per hour in just over eight seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, but the CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound, particularly when climbing hills. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander offered a soft ride quality, with a suspension that absorbed road imperfections well, though it wasn't particularly sporty. The cabin remained quiet on highways, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

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 slid up to 63.5 centimetres, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. 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 added to the family-friendly features.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining capabilities for added comfort. A second-row bench was available, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third row was less accommodating, with limited headroom and legroom, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed. Limited and Platinum trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured a nine-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Connectivity included a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, with Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming standard across all trims. Higher trims offered Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display, remote, and wireless headphones. The driver benefited from a multi-information display, digital rearview mirror, and remote keyless entry.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. Limited and Platinum trims included navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, 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 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall score from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. A surround view camera and head-up display were available on the top trim. The safety systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning.