2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the popular XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. The blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect, a popular design element. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, with the cabin mostly feeling worthy of its price, though hints of the base trim occasionally surfaced.

Toyota's Sienna, a stalwart in the minivan segment, continued to embrace its identity with the 2022 model. The Sienna's design aimed to blend SUV style with minivan functionality, featuring a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges to conceal the slider channel. The interior avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered design and abundant storage options, including an under-console storage area and numerous cup holders. The second and third rows offered comfortable seating, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's design and functionality made it a practical choice for families, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. This engine had a towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The hybrid option, available on the Limited trim, combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine with an electric motor for a total of 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque, offering a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms and fuel consumption as low as 9.6 L/100 km. The top-tier engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, delivered 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kilograms and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, with off-road capabilities enhanced in the Timberline model, and it offered an engaging driving experience, especially in the sport-tuned ST version.

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, enhancing traction without mechanical complexity. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery and efficiency. The handling was impressive for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable highway ride. Fuel consumption was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 L/100 km combined, and AWD models slightly higher at 6.7 L/100 km. The Sienna's hybrid system was complemented by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack, warrantied for 10 years or 240,000 kilometres.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were particularly comfortable, with available massaging functions. Storage space was somewhat limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The Explorer offered 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, 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's towing capacity was 1,585 kilograms. The interior featured a 60/40-split third-row bench that stored easily into the floor, with storage cubbies and cupholders throughout. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for families.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system on higher trims. However, the older Sync 3 system showed limitations in voice recognition and functionality compared to the newer Sync 4 technology available in other Ford models. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard across all trims, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services and a 1500-watt inverter for device charging. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available, and a digital rearview mirror provided a clear view when the cabin was full.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna featured 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 for added convenience.