2023 Kia Sportage 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 several generations. The latest model, launched in 2021, embraced a more SUV-like style while retaining its minivan identity, evident from its sliding side doors. The Sienna featured a bold front end and cleverly engineered door hinges that concealed the slider channel, giving it a sleek profile. The interior was designed with families in mind, offering ample storage and seating options, including available second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a spacious third-row bench that folded into the floor.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage arrived with a completely redesigned look, drawing comparisons to French automakers like Renault and Citroen. Its striking design included boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar, making it an eye-catching compact crossover. The Sportage was available in five trim levels, with AWD standard on most. Inside, Kia opted for synthetic leather upholstery, offering durability and an animal-friendly alternative. The cabin featured a large display and a mix of materials, though some design choices, like touch-sensitive HVAC controls, were less user-friendly.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered exclusively 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 CVT, offered smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was enhanced by the Toyota Next Generation Architecture platform, providing a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. Fuel consumption 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 higher. The hybrid system's battery was strategically placed under the front seats, and Toyota offered a 10-year warranty on it.

The 2023 Kia Sportage, meanwhile, featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering slightly better fuel economy than its predecessor. However, the lack of a turbocharged engine option, which was available in previous models, was a drawback for those seeking more power. The Sportage's AWD system provided adequate off-road capability, and the vehicle boasted 21 cm of ground clearance. Despite its increased power, the Sportage's performance was not as exhilarating as some might hope, making the hybrid version a more appealing choice for those seeking a punchier drive.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row allowed for flexible cargo loading, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second, and 2,860 litres behind the first. The Sienna also offered a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, especially when hands were full.

The 2023 Kia Sportage, as a larger compact crossover, offered increased interior space compared to its predecessor. Rear-seat legroom was generous at 1,050 mm, and the trunk provided 1,121 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the rear seats folded. The front cabin featured practical storage solutions, though the touch-sensitive HVAC controls were less intuitive. The Sportage's design aimed to balance style and functionality, but some tech features, like dual-functionality buttons, proved frustrating in practice.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, the lack of wireless connectivity for these features was a notable omission. The Sienna included a range of telematics services and audio options, with higher trims offering a 12-speaker JBL system and a rear-seat entertainment system. A digital rearview mirror was available on select models, enhancing visibility when the cabin was full.

In the 2023 Kia Sportage, technology was a strong point, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims. The X-Line Limited trim featured a panoramic digital instrument cluster, creating a premium feel. However, the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the top interface was puzzling. The Sportage offered Bluetooth, keyless entry, and a Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims, providing impressive tech features for its price range.

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 standard 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 LATCH connectors for child seats, ensuring family safety.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a comprehensive suite of collision-avoidance tech and ADAS as standard, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The X-Line Limited trim included advanced safety features like a blind-view monitor and highway driving assist. However, the Sportage had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.