2023 BMW X1 vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood as a testament to Toyota's unwavering commitment to the minivan segment, even as other manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. With a history dating back to the original Van in 1984, the Sienna evolved through several generations, culminating in a fourth-generation model that debuted in 2021. This iteration embraced a more assertive SUV-like style, featuring a macho front end and cleverly engineered sliding doors that concealed the slider channel. The interior was designed with family convenience in mind, offering ample storage, comfortable seating, and a spacious third row that folded away easily, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X1 presented itself as a refined evolution of its predecessor, maintaining its recognizable X1 identity while incorporating stronger and more sophisticated design elements. The larger, squarer kidney grille and flush door handles contributed to its modern appearance, while the expanded colour palette offered dynamic new options. Inside, the X1's cabin exuded a premium feel, highlighted by the BMW Curved Display and SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings. The M Sport Package added sporty touches, and the Premium Essential Package enhanced comfort with features like a panoramic moonroof. The X1's interior design was clean and uncluttered, with thoughtful details like a slim floating centre armrest and aluminum-finished door handles.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered by a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to deliver 243 horsepower. This setup, paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided smooth and efficient power delivery. The Sienna offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. Its handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, thanks to the Toyota Next Generation Architecture platform, and it boasted impressive fuel efficiency, with Natural Resources Canada ratings of 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway for FWD models.

The 2023 BMW X1, on the other hand, received a power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This increase allowed the X1 to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the previous eight-speed automatic, enhancing the driving experience. The X1's Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems provided a stable ride, though it leaned towards a stiffer feel. Fuel economy was rated at 9.6 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway, with premium fuel recommended.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, offering the ability to transport a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with cargo space measuring 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also featured power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, enhancing convenience for families.

The 2023 BMW X1, with its larger dimensions, provided impressive interior space, particularly in terms of headroom and cargo capacity. It offered 727 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,619 litres with them folded down. While heated seats were part of an optional package, the X1's interior featured thoughtful touches like a wireless charging pad with a secure clasp. The Premium Essential Package added features like a panoramic sunroof and wireless device charging, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it included a range of telematics services and audio system upgrades across trim levels. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, providing entertainment options for passengers.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive and user-friendly, with voice commands for various functions. The X1 also offered a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system as an option, and the Premium Enhanced Package added features like a head-up display and augmented reality navigation.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received 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, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. The Sienna also included 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system, enhancing safety for families.

The 2023 BMW X1 introduced standard active blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning function. The available Driving Assistant Professional suite included features like adaptive cruise control with stop & go, lane departure warning, and speed limit assist. The X1 also offered a 360-degree surround-view camera system and Active Park Distance Control, enhancing safety and convenience.