2022 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried over with minor modifications from its predecessor, offering a bold and boxy design that was both appealing and upscale, especially in the Execline trim. This top-tier model featured R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that complemented its exaggerated fenders. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though it was marred by low-cost materials and an abundance of hard plastics, which detracted from its overall quality. Despite these drawbacks, the Atlas provided a spacious and comfortable interior, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shed its traditional minivan image with a design reminiscent of a Japanese bullet train. The Sienna offered a variety of trim levels, including the new 25th Anniversary Special Edition, and featured larger wheels on the XSE trim. Inside, the Sienna impressed with high-quality materials, such as brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents, particularly in the Platinum trim. The minivan provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the option for three-across car seats in the middle row, making it a versatile choice for families seeking both style and functionality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, but required premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms and a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The V6, standard on the Execline trim, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and it had a fuel consumption estimate of 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was affected by its large wheels and low-profile tires.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, producing a combined 245 horsepower. While the power output was less impressive compared to competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendable, offering nimble handling and a comfortable ride. The Sienna featured a CVT, which was not the best-sounding powertrain, but it provided a smooth driving experience. The minivan offered several drive modes, including EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport, though Normal mode was recommended for the best balance of performance and efficiency.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, seating seven people with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The SUV featured a low step-in height, making it easy to access, and offered numerous storage areas, though many were unlined, leading to unwanted noise. Cargo space was exceptional, with 583 litres behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down, surpassing even the full-size Nissan Armada.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, a minivan, provided brilliant interior storage solutions, including a large cubby below the centre console and a long shelf across the dash. It featured three-zone climate control, with four-zone available on higher trims, and offered seating for seven or eight passengers. The Sienna's cargo space was impressive, with 949 litres behind the third row and 2,129 litres with it folded, though it fell short of some competitors due to the non-removable middle row. The second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, with extending ottomans and sliding capabilities, providing genuine legroom for third-row passengers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit as standard, featuring an 8-inch display that expanded to 10.25 inches on higher trims. The Trendline trim had a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender audio system on the Execline. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation controls.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, while lacking the latest tech seen in other Toyota models, offered a reliable infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims. The interface, though functional with physical buttons, felt outdated and required a wired connection for smartphone integration. Despite its quirks, the Sienna's technology was dependable and user-friendly.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. However, the Atlas's Lane Assist system had issues with old construction markings, and its crash-test ratings were decent but not class-leading, lacking a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna impressed with its standard safety technology, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. While competitors offered additional features like intercom systems and rear-seat cameras, the Sienna focused on essential safety features, making it a reliable choice for families.