2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, traditionally not known for its style. With its SUV-like styling, the Sienna featured a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays, giving it a modern and assertive stance. The redesigned sliding side doors, with their sculpted look and innovative hinges, added to its visual appeal. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches complemented the exterior, while the rear maintained a wide and low appearance. 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 and smart features like a tray for a handbag. The second and third-row seats provided comfort and flexibility, accommodating adults with ease.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia retained its mature design, having undergone its last major redesign in 2008. Its exterior maintained a classic look with a modest grille and elegant wheel arches, emphasizing its substantial size. The Sequoia's dimensions and ground clearance contributed to its imposing presence. Inside, the Sequoia's age showed, with a somewhat dated dashboard and smaller infotainment screen compared to modern SUVs. However, the interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition model showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant, offering features like a power moonroof and heated seats, though it lacked some modern conveniences like ventilated seats in Canada.

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. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter utilizing a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritized fuel efficiency, though it slightly dulled throttle response. With four selectable drive modes, the Sienna provided a comfortable and efficient ride, boasting impressive fuel efficiency ratings of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving for FWD models.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, relied on a robust 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Sequoia offered a reliable and durable powertrain. Its truck-based construction contributed to a substantial payload capacity and towing capability, though it came at the cost of fuel efficiency, with ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, excelling in off-road conditions with its body-on-frame construction and independent suspension.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, offering a spacious interior with a standard third-row bench that easily folded into the floor. The second row's sliding capability allowed for flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. With 16 cupholders and ample storage throughout the cabin, the Sienna catered to families' needs. Its cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, providing roomy seating across all three rows. With features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof, the Sequoia offered a pleasant environment for occupants. The cargo compartment was versatile, with power-folding third-row seats expanding the available space. While the Sequoia's interior storage was generous, its overall cargo capacity was slightly less than the Sienna's, though still substantial for most needs.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna boasted a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offered advanced audio systems and a rear-seat entertainment system with a large display. The Sienna also featured a digital rearview mirror and a range of connectivity options, enhancing the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt dated, with a smaller seven-inch touchscreen and a less advanced infotainment system. While it included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Sequoia lacked the modern digital dashboards found in newer SUVs. However, it did offer a premium audio system on higher trims and standard LED lighting for improved visibility.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring, along with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. The Sienna received high safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, while lacking official crash-test ratings, offered a range of standard safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. It also included the STAR safety system and a full complement of airbags. The Sequoia's robust construction and safety features provided peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.