2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, though the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling. The Sienna featured a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges to hide the slider channel, giving it a sleek profile. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and comfortable seating across all rows. The Sienna's design aimed to balance practicality with a touch of assertiveness, making it a versatile family vehicle.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered an optional Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which significantly improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec models featured exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 model, came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain. It combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. The Sienna offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter adding a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery and helped achieve impressive fuel economy ratings of 36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD models. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, thanks to its advanced suspension system.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were highly comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, the rear seats lacked leg support and had an uncomfortable recline angle. Cargo space measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The RDX also featured several storage compartments, making it practical for daily use.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo capacity and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo measurements were 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The interior featured numerous storage cubbies, cupholders, and power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, enhancing convenience for families.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While it aimed to reduce distraction, it required a learning curve and could still be cumbersome. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. The RDX also offered smartphone integration, voice recognition, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It also offered a range of telematics services, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Qi wireless phone charging. Higher trims included a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's technology package was comprehensive, providing convenience and entertainment for all passengers.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars in frontal-impact and rollover resistance tests.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Sienna featured 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, making it a safe choice for families.