2025 Toyota Sienna vs 2024 Kia Seltos

The 2024 Kia Seltos underwent a mid-cycle refresh, resulting in subtle yet effective updates. The exterior featured redesigned headlights and grille, with a connecting light strip between the smaller taillights, giving the vehicle a rejuvenated appearance without significant cost increases. The test model showcased the new "Pluton Blue" paint, which was notably striking. Inside, the Seltos introduced a new Gentle Brown interior option, although the test model retained the standard black interior. A prominent change was the expansive digital panel covering two-thirds of the dashboard, integrating a fully digital instrument panel and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sienna maintained its minivan identity with a design that attempted to add style to its boxy form. The trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines gave it a distinctive look, while the rear fenders and narrow taillights added a touch of elegance. The Platinum package introduced new flower-petal wheel designs. Despite these efforts, the Sienna remained unmistakably a minivan, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. The test model, a Limited with the Platinum package, was finished in the new Magnetic Grey paint, capping a lineup that included LE, XLE, and XSE trims. Prices ranged from $51,219 to $73,753, including destination charges and fees.

The 2024 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The SX and X-Line trims boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a new eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine provided noticeable acceleration improvements, especially in 60 to 100 km/h scenarios, although some turbo lag was present at lower speeds. The Seltos handled various road conditions well, with responsive steering and minimal body roll.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The system produced a net horsepower of 245, which was adequate for a minivan seating up to eight and towing up to 1,587 kilograms. The electric assist motor provided immediate torque, preventing the Sienna from feeling sluggish. The hybrid powertrain prioritized fuel economy, with an official rating of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. However, during testing, the Sienna averaged 8.9 L/100 km. The Sienna's handling was predictable but not particularly engaging, with a smooth ride and excellent impact isolation.

The 2024 Kia Seltos offered up to 1,778 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 753 litres with the seats in use. The upright seating position provided ample headroom and visibility, with good rear legroom for taller occupants. The front seating area included decently sized in-door cupholders and cubbies, while the centre console featured a small tray for essentials. A hands-free power liftgate was standard from the EX Premium trim.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna excelled in form and function, with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats in the Limited with Platinum package. The second-row captain's chairs with ottoman-style leg rests were popular with passengers, and the third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably. The Sienna offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,129 litres with the third row stowed. Maximum cargo capacity was 2,860 litres, less than rivals due to the non-removable second-row seats. The Sienna's design prioritized ease of use, with sliding side doors and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2024 Kia Seltos featured a consistent digital bezel across trims, with screen sizes varying by model. The base infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, while upper trims upgraded to a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with physical controls for volume and climate settings. The SX and X-Line trims offered an eight-speaker Bose premium stereo system and Digital Key 2 Touch for smartphone access.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna's higher-spec models boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen for the Toyota Audio Multimedia (TAM) system. The Limited with Platinum package included a four-zone climate control system, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The TAM system offered connected services with varying subscription periods, featuring a digital assistant for voice commands. The Limited trim included a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system, although sound quality was affected by excessive bass.

The 2024 Kia Seltos came equipped with standard driver assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The EX Premium trim added smart adaptive cruise control, while the SX included traffic sign recognition and highway driving assist.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The system performed well, although lane-centring assist could waver in some situations. The Sienna added a rear-seat reminder system for 2025, alerting drivers to movement within the cabin. The Sienna received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but only three stars for driver protection in a frontal impact.