2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior trim. This edition sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. The Onyx Edition included black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat, making it less comfortable on hot days. The Ascent's interior was complemented by metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern and appealing atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues. The Sienna's design included a macho front end and cleverly engineered sliding doors that concealed the slider channel, giving it a sleek profile. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering an uncluttered front cabin with ample storage options. The Sienna provided comfortable seating for second- and third-row passengers, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench. The overall design of the Sienna was assertive, with a focus on practicality and family-friendly features.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, providing a fuel consumption rating of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Ascent's engine, with its flat-four layout, offered a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. The CVT was praised for its smooth operation, and the Ascent boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The vehicle's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, came exclusively with a 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 Sienna's electronically controlled CVT contributed to its impressive fuel efficiency, with ratings of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving for FWD models. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform and independent rear suspension. The hybrid powertrain and efficient design made the Sienna a standout in terms of fuel economy.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent offered seating for up to eight people, although the third row was best suited for children. The interior featured a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space was generous, with 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in 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's third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and the vehicle featured power-operated sliding doors and liftgate for added convenience. The Sienna's interior was designed with family needs in mind, offering ample storage and cupholders throughout.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, its voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, but a premium Harman Kardon sound system was available on higher trims. Additional technology features included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera on the Premier trim.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Sienna offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also included a digital rearview mirror on select trims, providing a clear view of the road behind. The vehicle's technology package was comprehensive, catering to the needs of modern families.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, the system's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and available blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Sienna's standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, lane-centring, and automatic emergency braking. The vehicle featured 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire-pressure monitoring were standard, enhancing the Sienna's safety credentials.