2023 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, continued to build on its legacy of versatility and style. Initially launched in 1996 as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 quickly gained popularity among young buyers, leading to a wave of similar car-based SUVs. Over the years, the RAV4 evolved, growing in size and sophistication, and by 2022, it was a mature crossover SUV often topping sales charts in Canada. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design cues like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, shedding its traditional image for a more modern look. Toyota's efforts to distance the Sienna from its minivan roots were evident in its bullet train-inspired front-end styling and larger wheel options. The Sienna offered a range of trims, including a new 25th Anniversary Special Edition, catering to various preferences and budgets. Inside, the Sienna impressed with its high-quality materials, such as brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents, although some features were not available in Canada. The Sienna provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the latter option supporting three-across car seats in the middle row. Despite its minivan classification, the Sienna's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, making it a smart choice for families.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. Fuel economy for the gasoline model ranged from 8.8 to 9.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 to 7.4 on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid, with a similar engine paired with an electric motor, delivered 217 combined horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency of 5.8 L/100 km in the city. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was praised for its car-like feel, with features like Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring enhancing its performance.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain across all models, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two front-mounted electric motors, with an additional rear motor for AWD trims. This setup produced 245 net system horsepower, which was less impressive compared to some competitors. The Sienna's CVT was noted for its less-than-ideal sound and lackluster acceleration. However, the Sienna's chassis and steering were highlights, offering nimble handling and a comfortable ride. The Sienna's light steering made it easy to maneuver in urban settings, and its drive modes, while varied, were best left in normal mode for optimal performance.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered substantial cargo space with 1,059 litres available behind the second row and up to 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a payload capacity of 499 to 511 kilograms and could tow up to 1,588 kilograms in certain trims. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with comfortable front seats and a well-organized cabin featuring numerous storage options. The XLE grade added conveniences like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage solutions, with a large open cubby below the centre console and a long shelf across the dash. It featured a big bin in the centre console and numerous cupholders, along with three-zone climate control as standard. The Sienna's minivan platform offered impressive cargo space, with 949 litres behind the third row and up to 2,860 litres in total. However, the middle row of seats could not be fully removed or folded into the floor, unlike some competitors. The second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, with extending ottomans and adjustable tracks for added comfort.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, JBL audio system, and additional features like a bird’s-eye view camera and head-up display. The RAV4 Prime included multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting, enhancing its tech appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna featured an older infotainment interface with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though both required a wired connection. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims. While the interface was reliable, it felt outdated and had some usability quirks. Despite this, the Sienna's technology was functional, with physical buttons providing a practical touch.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna also boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, highlighting its commitment to safety.