2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with the rest of Volvo's lineup through features like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with a white contrasting roof. The XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, subtle “Recharge” badging, and unique alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Its design was understated, appealing to those who preferred not to flaunt their electric vehicle choice. The interior was minimalist yet premium, featuring real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, with a coherent design that integrated elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen seamlessly.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues, such as a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges that concealed the slider channel. Its assertive profile was complemented by standard 17-inch wheels, with options for larger sizes on higher trims. Inside, the Sienna avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered front cabin design and abundant storage solutions, including an under-console area and large door pockets. The second and third rows offered roomy seating, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's interior was designed for family convenience, with power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate that could be activated with a foot motion.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a versatile powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T4 model delivered 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the T5 variant increased output to 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for all-wheel drive and a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 75 kWh of usable capacity, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge also supported one-pedal driving and had a towing capacity of 900 kilograms.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna continued with its hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. It offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling was enhanced by the Toyota Next Generation Architecture platform, providing a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. Fuel consumption was impressive, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, and AWD models slightly higher at 6.7 L/100 km.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not the most spacious in its class, offered clever storage solutions to maximize utility. The centre console featured a removable trash bin, and the glovebox door included a bag hook. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were relocated to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. However, the XC40 Recharge had limited legroom and cargo space compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The frunk was also small, with much of the space occupied by powertrain components.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. The third-row bench folded into the floor easily, and each row offered ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate enhanced convenience, especially when carrying groceries or children.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with built-in Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Recharge model supported over-the-air updates for software-controlled vehicle functions. It lacked a start button, allowing drivers to simply shift out of park with the key fob present.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna offered a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It included multiple USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also provided telematics services like Safety Connect and Remote Connect, with a digital rearview mirror available on select models. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades to the Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, including a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for gasoline models. It came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model included Volvo’s latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, with adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna included 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire.