2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim, and a well-finished rear design. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and smart features like a tray for a handbag. The second and third rows provided comfort and flexibility, with the second row sliding to optimize space.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a mature design, having been in its second generation for 14 years. Its exterior showcased a balance of modest grille size and elegant wheel arches, with a substantial presence due to its dimensions. The Sequoia's interior, however, felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a flat dashboard and a small 7-inch touchscreen. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition model added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-liter 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, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and it boasted impressive fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models and 35/36/35 mpg for AWD models.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight contributed to lower fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD and 13/17/14 mpg for 4WD. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with competent off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored away. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage, while the cargo area could accommodate a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo compartment included a 12-volt outlet, with 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expandable to 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 120.1 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various connectivity trials and options for enhanced audio systems, including a Premium Audio + JBL package. The Sienna also featured a rear-seat entertainment system and advanced driver information displays, with a digital rearview mirror available on higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. While it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, its infotainment system lagged behind competitors. The Sequoia did offer a premium audio package with JBL speakers and standard LED lighting, but its powertrain lacked modern electrification features.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. While crash-test ratings for 2021 were not available, the 2020 model received favorable ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. It included a full complement of airbags, LATCH connectors, and various safety systems like stability control and trailer sway-control. However, crash-test ratings for the Sequoia were not available.