2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a broad range of trim choices, including the controversial XRT treatment. Despite its rugged aesthetic, the XRT’s visual enhancements did not impress much. The addition of side steps, although useful for roof rack access, hampered ease of entry and exit and reduced the vehicle’s breakover angle, affecting its off-road capability. The XRT trim fell between the lower SE and SEL trims and the more upscale Limited and Calligraphy trims, offering a blend of decent features at a starting price of $34,095, going up to $35,940 when fully equipped with AWD and floor mats. The Portofino Gray paint and black cloth interior lacked visual flair, making the vehicle appear quite dull.

The interior, although not as upscale as the Limited or Calligraphy trims, was thoughtfully designed and comfortable for the price point. Patterns and brightwork added some much-needed contrast, making the cabin a pleasant place to spend time.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to break free from the minivan stereotype with design elements inspired by Japanese bullet trains. Toyota placed a strong emphasis on providing a stylish yet functional vehicle. Available in multiple trims ranging from the base LE to the luxurious Platinum, with a new 25th Anniversary Special Edition, the Sienna catered to a broad array of buyers.

The XLE trim, considered a sweet spot for value-conscious shoppers, boasted features like LED fog lights, power-sliding doors, and a power liftgate. The interior of the Platinum trim test vehicle showcased high-quality brown leather upholstery and beautiful wood-grain accents, enhancing its luxurious feel. With seating for seven or eight, and useful options like ottomans on the captain’s chairs, the Sienna offered generous space and a welcoming interior environment.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine suited everyday driving needs but lacked the punch needed for rapid acceleration or tackling steeper inclines. An eight-speed automatic transmission with pushbutton controls handled gear changes, and multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, allowed for some versatility. The XRT’s AWD system could be locked for better traction at low speeds, but higher trims with a turbocharged engine offered significantly better performance. Fuel economy hovered around 24 mpg, but the more powerful and efficient hybrid variants promised better numbers.

On the road, the Santa Fe exhibited refined handling and a quiet cabin, courtesy of acoustic front-side window glass. Suspension performed well over varied terrain, maintaining comfort even over rough surfaces. However, Santa Fe XRT’s off-road credibility didn’t live up to its rugged looks.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna leveraged a hybrid powertrain across all models, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two front-mounted electric motors, and a third motor in AWD trims, for a combined 245 horsepower. Despite its size and weight, the Sienna’s chassis and steering provided a surprisingly nimble driving experience. The CVT, while efficient, did not offer a particularly engaging or smooth sound profile.

Various driving modes including EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport allowed for some personalization, but Normal mode proved to be the most practical for everyday use. EV mode was largely ineffective as the gas engine frequently kicked in, and Sport mode did not significantly enhance performance. The Sienna excelled primarily in city driving thanks to its light steering and impressive turning radius.

In terms of interior space and usability, both vehicles offered practical solutions, although the approaches differed. The Hyundai Santa Fe XRT had an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and rear air conditioning vents, though it lacked a height-adjustable front passenger’s seat. Its rear seats were spacious and comfortable, with rear side-window shades and USB charging ports adding convenience.

Storage solutions in the Santa Fe were abundant but not always easily accessible. It featured Hyundai’s hands-free Smart Tailgate, which could be both convenient and annoying depending on the situation. The cargo area provided 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded, accommodating various storage needs effectively.

The Toyota Sienna, true to its minivan roots, excelled in space utilization. With ample cubbies, bins, and cupholders, it was designed to cater to family needs. The under-console storage, long dashboard shelf, and multiple USB ports further accentuated its practicality. The Sienna’s larger dimensions translated to significant cargo space—33.5 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 75.2 cubic feet with the third row folded. Total cargo space capped at 101 cubic feet, albeit less than some competitors due to non-removable second-row seats.

Technological offerings in the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. With standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and Bluelink connected services, Hyundai ensured convenience and connectivity. The infotainment system, although not the most advanced, was user-friendly with physical knobs and clear graphics enhancing ease of use. Digital key technology added a modern touch, allowing Android users to unlock and start the vehicle with their smartphones.

In comparison, the 2023 Toyota Sienna’s technology was somewhat dated. It included a 9-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Physical buttons aided usability, but a lack of wireless connectivity and a somewhat clunky interface detracted from the overall experience. The 12-speaker JBL audio system provided good sound quality, but the navigation system and smartphone integration felt less intuitive compared to more modern setups found in other Toyota models.

Safety technology was a strong suit for both vehicles. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came loaded with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of driver-assist features including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Although lacking Highway Driving Assist, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist worked seamlessly.

Among notable features were Junction Turning Detection and Safe Exit Assist, enhancing safety in complicated driving scenarios. The rear occupant alert system and Bluelink provided additional layers of security, including alerts for movement inside the vehicle. The Santa Fe earned top marks from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring high levels of crash protection.

Similarly, the 2023 Toyota Sienna did not skimp on safety. With automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control standard across all trims, it positioned itself as a secure family vehicle. The Sienna also boasted a five-star NHTSA rating and the IIHS’s 2022 Top Safety Pick+ designation, though it lacked some of the advanced features found in its competitors like the CabinTalk system from Honda or Chrysler’s FamCam.