2023 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights being the most notable updates. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, showcasing the smooth refinement Lexus was known for, with a quiet atmosphere only occasionally interrupted by the V8 engine's faint roar. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, with prices ranging from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $80,550.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shed its minivan image with a design inspired by a Japanese bullet train, featuring larger wheels on certain trims. The Sienna offered a variety of trims, including the base LE, XLE, sporty XSE, and the luxurious Limited, with a new 25th Anniversary Special Edition trim introduced for 2023. The interior was praised for its practicality, with features like power-sliding doors and a power liftgate on the XLE trim, making it a smart choice for families. The Sienna's interior was well-received, with high-quality materials and ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. Despite its hefty curb weight of 2,325 kilograms, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. Its six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, providing a 40/60 power split between the front and rear wheels. The GX's fuel consumption was estimated at 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a slightly better result of 14.0 L/100 km during testing. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced the GX's stability and off-road capabilities, although the steering and brake pedal were noted as less appealing aspects of the driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, delivering a combined 245 horsepower. While the power output was less impressive compared to competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering were praised for their nimbleness and ease of driving. The Sienna offered multiple drive modes, but the normal mode was recommended for the best balance of performance and efficiency. Despite its size, the Sienna was fun to drive, with a light steering feel and a tidy turning radius, making it suitable for city driving.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat, providing clear visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various settings, although the steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seating and physical controls, but the placement of certain knobs was confusing. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a total cargo capacity of 1,833 litres when the second-row seat was folded. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading and unloading.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and storage solutions. With a length of 5,175 millimetres and a wheelbase of 3,061 millimetres, the Sienna offered ample cargo space, with 949 litres behind the third row and a total of 2,860 litres. The second-row captain's chairs were functional and comfortable, with extending ottomans and sliding capabilities. The Sienna's third-row seats provided genuine legroom for adults, a rarity in three-row crossovers. The interior also featured numerous storage options, including a large bin in the centre console and multiple cupholders.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was praised for its accuracy. However, the placement of stereo controls was criticized for being less intuitive.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, while lacking the latest technology found in other Toyota models, still offered essential features like SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The older interface included physical buttons, which some users preferred for ease of use. However, the system required a wired connection for smartphone integration, and accessing certain features was less straightforward. Despite these quirks, the Sienna's technology was reliable, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, came equipped with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in its competitors, which could be a drawback for some buyers.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, impressed with its comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning with steering assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, highlighting its commitment to safety. While it lacked some of the more gimmicky features found in competitors, the Sienna's safety technology was well-suited for a family vehicle.