2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in a dwindling minivan market, maintaining its presence while others retreated. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's evolution, from its debut in 1998 to the fourth-generation model launched in 2021. The Sienna embraced a more SUV-like style, with a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels, giving it a robust and assertive profile. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical interior, with ample storage and seating options, including available second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a versatile third-row bench that folded into the floor.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX presented a more luxurious and performance-oriented approach. The MDX Type S, with its subtle yet sporty design, featured chicane-design LED lights, quad exhaust outlets, and 21-inch wheels. Inside, the MDX Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather, aluminum trim, and a panoramic moonroof. However, the interior design, while stylish, compromised storage space, and the seats, though comfortable, did not fully support the vehicle's performance aspirations. The MDX's exterior design, while appealing, had some quirks, such as the body tapering at the doors, which could give the impression of a dent.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered by a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup, paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), offered smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride, thanks to its Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform. Fuel consumption was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, while AWD models were slightly higher at 6.7 L/100 km.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Despite the power increase over the standard MDX, the Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience. The 10-speed automatic transmission, while advanced, was sometimes indecisive, and the ride lacked compliance. Fuel economy was a downside, with the Type S averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, falling short of its official rating. The MDX's performance enhancements, including the adaptive air suspension and Electro-Servo brakes, did not fully integrate, leading to a less predictable driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, offering a spacious interior capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood. With the second row in its default position, the Sienna provided 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with the rear seats folded. The power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, especially when carrying groceries or children. The Sienna's interior was designed with family needs in mind, featuring ample storage cubbies and cupholders throughout.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a more luxurious interior with three rows of seating and a flexible second-row configuration. However, the focus on style over storage limited its practicality. The MDX provided 461 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,021 litres with the rear seats folded. The power liftgate with a Walk Away Close function was a thoughtful addition, but the interior storage solutions were less impressive. The MDX's seating was comfortable, but the third row was best suited for children due to limited space.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While the lack of wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was a drawback, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services and audio system upgrades. The available rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was a family-friendly feature, and the digital rearview mirror provided a clear view when the cabin was full.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the lack of a touchscreen and reliance on the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was a point of contention. While the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the TTI's design compromised storage space and usability. The MDX's audio system options were impressive, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D system delivering exceptional sound quality. The head-up display and Amazon Alexa integration added to the tech appeal, but the native voice recognition system was less effective.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system, ensuring comprehensive safety for families.

The 2023 Acura MDX also received high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The MDX's safety features included a collision mitigation braking system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. However, the lane departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was less preferred, and the adaptive cruise control's speed resumption was slower than desired. An incident during testing, where the MDX mistook an overhead sign for an obstacle, raised concerns about the system's reliability.