2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in a market where minivans were becoming increasingly rare. While many manufacturers had abandoned the minivan segment, Toyota remained committed, evolving the Sienna over the years. The fourth-generation Sienna, launched in 2021, embraced a more SUV-like style while retaining its minivan identity, evident from its sliding side doors. The design featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed door hinges, giving it a robust stance. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin with ample storage, comfortable seating, and a third-row bench that folded into the floor, making it a versatile family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance. However, its design felt somewhat disjointed, with a mix of sharp and soft lines that didn't quite harmonize. The interior was unconventional but functional, with an asymmetrical dash and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced unique elements like bronze wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was prone to stains. While the Highlander Hybrid's materials didn't match the quality of some competitors, it remained a practical choice for families seeking a hybrid SUV.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The AWD system used an additional electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without mechanical complexity. The Sienna's CVT provided smooth power delivery, and its handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models were slightly less efficient. The hybrid battery was neatly tucked under the front seats, ensuring a spacious interior.

The Highlander Hybrid shared the same 2.5-litre engine and hybrid system, also producing 243 horsepower. It came with standard AWD, using a supplemental electric motor for the rear axle. Acceleration was decent, reaching 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The CVT contributed to a smooth ride, though the engine could become noisy under heavy acceleration. Braking was seamless, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort over sportiness, offering a quiet cabin and a suspension that absorbed road imperfections well.

The Sienna excelled in practicality, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with generous cargo space: 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. It also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. The power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for busy families.

The Highlander Hybrid offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for these features. Higher trims offered advanced audio systems and a rear-seat entertainment system with a widescreen display. Safety and remote connectivity features were available, enhancing convenience and security.

The Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.3-inch option on top trims. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons for ease of use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. Limited and Platinum trims included navigation and a premium audio system.

The 2022 Sienna earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags and multiple child-seat connectors, ensuring family safety.

The Highlander Hybrid also received high safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA score and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems required fine-tuning, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, which could be overly sensitive.