2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was a testament to rugged design, with its fourth-generation JL model maintaining a boxy, no-nonsense aesthetic. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders were standard, while the tailgate swung out for easy cargo access. The interior was practical, featuring easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design, though lacking in luxury features like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

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

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was built for off-road enthusiasts, offering a range of engine options to suit different needs. The standard Pentastar V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder offered 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower and torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in about 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid provided an eco-friendly option with 35 km of all-electric range. However, the 392 model's brakes and steering were less refined, requiring cautious handling.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain across all models, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total of 245 horsepower. While this setup offered less power compared to competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendable, providing a nimble and enjoyable driving experience. The Sienna's light steering and tidy turning radius made it easy to maneuver in urban settings, though its CVT and lackluster acceleration were less impressive.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available on higher trims. Rear seating was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. Cargo space was also modest, with 2,050 litres available with the rear seats folded. The Wrangler's various top options, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top, allowed for a customizable open-air experience. Charging points were plentiful, with USB ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage, featuring numerous cubbies, shelves, and bins. The minivan's spacious design provided 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with seats folded. The second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, offering sliding and reclining options for added comfort. The Sienna's interior was well-equipped with climate control, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch upgrade. The system included off-road pages, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. While the Wrangler offered practical tech features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches, it lacked advanced options like a digital key or over-the-air updates for vehicle performance.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna featured an older infotainment interface, with a 9-inch touchscreen and physical buttons for ease of use. Standard features included SiriusXM, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, though both required a wired connection. The system was reliable but felt outdated compared to newer models. The Sienna's 12-speaker JBL audio system provided quality sound, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with standard components like a rearview camera and stability control. Advanced features such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were only available on higher trims or as part of an option package. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with some trims earning a Poor ranking for headlights.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in safety, offering a comprehensive suite of standard features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, making it a reliable choice for families.