2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Lexus GX

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 the years. The fourth-generation Sienna, launched in 2021, embraced a more SUV-like style while retaining its minivan identity. Its design 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 interior, with ample storage and seating options, including available second-row captain’s chairs and a versatile third-row bench that folded into the floor.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX exuded a rugged and commanding presence with its large spindle grille and high ground clearance. The GX Black Line Special Edition added exclusivity with limited production and unique paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX was engineered for off-road capability, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and practicality, with some plastic materials betraying its premium status. The GX offered comfortable seating, especially in the second row, but the third row was cramped. The cargo space was limited, and the side-hinged rear door required effort to open.

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 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 platform. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with Natural Resources Canada estimating 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving for FWD models. The Sienna's hybrid system included a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery with a 10-year warranty.

The 2023 Lexus GX, on the other hand, featured a robust 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery, it lagged behind more modern engines in terms of efficiency. The GX's towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms, but its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The GX's driving dynamics were improved over the years, with a Torsen limited-slip differential and a 4WD system enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, its weight and body roll were noticeable, though predictable and manageable.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading. The Sienna offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power-operated sliding doors and liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for busy families. The Sienna's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring numerous storage cubbies and cupholders throughout.

The 2023 Lexus GX, while offering some luxury touches, fell short in terms of interior space. The centre console provided ample storage, but the door pockets were small. The GX retained physical controls, which some drivers preferred over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain’s chairs available, but the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,832 litres with all seats folded. The side-hinged rear door required effort to open and limited access in tight spaces.

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 a rear-seat entertainment system on higher trims. The Sienna's audio system varied by trim, with a 12-speaker JBL system available. A digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System were also offered on select models.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an improvement over its predecessor. It included SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. However, the system felt dated compared to other Lexus models, with lagging graphics. The GX offered a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a CD player. Its off-road technology was a highlight, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System enhanced both on-road and off-road performance.

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 departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included the Lexus Safety System+ with features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. While it lacked some advanced features, the GX's safety systems were a testament to Toyota and Lexus's commitment to driver assistance technology.