2023 Acura RDX vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in the minivan segment, a category that had seen a decline with the rise of SUVs. Despite this trend, Toyota remained committed to the minivan market, evolving its models over the years. The Sienna, with its fourth-generation debut in 2021, embraced a design that attempted to blend SUV aesthetics with traditional minivan functionality. Its exterior featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels, giving it a more assertive stance. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin, with ample storage solutions and seating configurations that catered to family needs. The interior design avoided the typical minivan feel, providing a more refined and uncluttered experience for drivers and passengers alike.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX presented a sharp, angular style that was both distinctive and conventional. The front showcased Acura's signature grille, flanked by sleek headlights, while the side profile featured a dynamic character line. The rear design was more traditional, aligning with other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX took a different approach with a vertical dashboard layout, emphasizing performance with its gear-selector buttons and drive-mode dial. The interior, while not as modern as some competitors, offered a familiar and user-friendly environment. The RDX's cabin was designed to appeal to those who preferred a more traditional setup, with a focus on performance-oriented features.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to deliver 243 horsepower. This setup provided a smooth and efficient driving experience, aided by an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Sienna offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter featuring an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. The hybrid system contributed to impressive fuel efficiency, with Natural Resources Canada rating the FWD model at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, and the AWD model at 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride.

The 2023 Acura RDX, on the other hand, was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the RDX offered a responsive and engaging driving experience. The standard all-wheel-drive system, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD), provided excellent traction and handling capabilities. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, delivering a sporty performance for its class. The adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim further enhanced the driving dynamics, offering a balance between comfort and agility.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and 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 also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, along with ample storage cubbies and cupholders, enhanced convenience for families.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered generous front seat space, with additional adjustments for comfort in the top trim level. The rear seats provided adequate room for average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. Cargo space was competitive, with 835 litres behind the rear seats and 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The RDX featured a deep bin under the cargo floor, useful for wet gear or as a cooler. Interior storage options included a centre console bin, armrest bin, and wireless charging pad, though the centre stack design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for these features. The Sienna included a range of telematics services, Bluetooth, and optional Qi wireless charging. Audio systems varied by trim, with a 12-speaker JBL system available on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was also offered, along with a digital rearview mirror on select models.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a touchpad infotainment controller, which was challenging to use, especially while driving. The system improved with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for easier navigation. The RDX included standard Bluetooth, SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system. Despite the sharp graphics and quick responses, the infotainment interface was considered one of the least user-friendly in its class.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a suite of standard driver aids including adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, enhancing its family-friendly safety credentials.

The 2023 Acura RDX also earned high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera and head-up display. The RDX's safety systems performed well, though the lane-keep assist was better suited for straight highways.