2023 Jeep Wrangler 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. Despite the dwindling presence of minivans in the market, Toyota continued to innovate with the Sienna, which debuted in 1998 and evolved through several generations. The latest iteration, launched in 2021, embraced a more assertive design, blending SUV-like aesthetics with traditional minivan functionality. Its exterior featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door mechanisms, while the interior offered a spacious and versatile cabin with ample storage and seating options, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler exuded a rugged, no-nonsense design, reminiscent of a brick on wheels. Its fourth-generation JL model maintained the iconic Jeep aesthetic with wide fenders, a seven-slot grille, and round headlights. The Wrangler offered both two-door and four-door configurations, with removable doors and a foldable windshield for an open-air experience. The interior prioritized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls, though it lacked some of the creature comforts found in more luxurious SUVs. The Wrangler's design was simple yet functional, appealing to those seeking adventure and off-road capability.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured 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 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 (TNGA) platform, which minimized body roll and enhanced comfort on highways. Fuel efficiency was a standout feature, with Natural Resources Canada rating the FWD model at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, while the AWD variant achieved 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, known for its off-road prowess, offered a range of engine options to suit various driving needs. The standard Pentastar V6 engine produced 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder delivered 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. For torque enthusiasts, the 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 provided 260 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 392, with its 6.4-litre V8 engine, boasted 470 horsepower and an equal amount of torque, making it a powerhouse for off-road adventures. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were further enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer case options, allowing it to tackle challenging terrains with ease.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, 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 offered a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with diverse needs. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added convenience, while ample storage cubbies and cupholders ensured a family-friendly environment.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, while rugged and adventurous, had limitations in interior space. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were a tight fit, especially in the four-door models. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and centre console. Larger cargo space measured 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded, slightly less than its competitor, the Bronco. The Wrangler's removable hard and soft tops provided versatility for open-air driving, while charging points and outlets throughout the cabin catered to modern connectivity needs.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent, the Sienna offered telematics services, Bluetooth, and optional Qi wireless charging. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 12-speaker JBL system, with a rear-seat entertainment system available on higher trims. A digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry added to the convenience and safety of the Sienna.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Jeep's Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen in our tester. The system, while initially complex, offered off-road pages with detailed information for adventurous drivers. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, but the Wrangler focused on practicality rather than excessive tech features. A forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches catered to off-road enthusiasts, while over-the-air updates applied only to the Uconnect system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings, including 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 tracing assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, ensuring a safe environment for families.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler, while offering some safety features, fell short in comparison. Standard safety components included a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on top trims or part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover rating.