2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Honda Pilot
Overview | |
MSRP$32,550 | MSRP$35,285 |
Average price$28,017 | Average price$39,903 |
Listings1162 | Listings777 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2021 Honda Pilot Reviews SummaryIt’s been seven years since Honda last redesigned the Pilot, the automaker’s popular midsize three-row crossover SUV. In most ways, age has been kind to it, but to love a 2021 Honda Pilot you must first live with one. Unlike some competitors, the styling is not a strong suit. Rather, it is the Pilot’s interior, powertrain, driving dynamics, and simple but useful technology that makes you appreciate it each and every day. Well, that, and the cheap lease payment. | |
2022 Toyota Sienna Reviews SummaryThe 2022 Toyota Sienna hybrid minivan rolls into the second model year following a redesign for 2021. Last year’s successful makeover with a standard hybrid powertrain returns unchanged, but a new Woodland trim level is available to attract adventurous families (or those who want to look that way). | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine3.5L 280 hp V6 | Engine2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity8 |
Horsepower280 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower |
EV Battery Capacity | EV Battery Capacity1.9 kWh |
MPG City20 | MPG City36 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway36 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.5L 280 hp V6 | Engine Name2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Torque262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | Torque |
Horsepower280 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
EV Battery Capacity | EV Battery Capacity1.9 kWh |
MPG City20 | MPG City36 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway36 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity8 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space16.5 cu ft | Cargo Space33.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight3982 lbs | Curb Weight4610 lbs |
Height70.6 in | Height68.5 in |
Length196.5 in | Length203.7 in |
Width78.6 in | Width78.5 in |
Wheelbase111.0 in | Wheelbase120.5 in |
Maximum Payload1563 lbs | Maximum Payload1560 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $32,550 | $35,285 |
Average price | $28,017 | $39,903 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.2 out of 10Read full review | 8.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
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Summary | It’s been seven years since Honda last redesigned the Pilot, the automaker’s popular midsize three-row crossover SUV. In most ways, age has been kind to it, but to love a 2021 Honda Pilot you must first live with one. Unlike some competitors, the styling is not a strong suit. Rather, it is the Pilot’s interior, powertrain, driving dynamics, and simple but useful technology that makes you appreciate it each and every day. Well, that, and the cheap lease payment. | The 2022 Toyota Sienna hybrid minivan rolls into the second model year following a redesign for 2021. Last year’s successful makeover with a standard hybrid powertrain returns unchanged, but a new Woodland trim level is available to attract adventurous families (or those who want to look that way). |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 3.5L 280 hp V6 | 2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
Horsepower | 280 hp @ 6000 rpm | |
EV Battery Capacity | 1.9 kWh | |
MPG City | 20 | 36 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 36 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.5L 280 hp V6 | 2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Torque | 262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | |
Horsepower | 280 hp @ 6000 rpm | |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
EV Battery Capacity | 1.9 kWh | |
MPG City | 20 | 36 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 36 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 16.5 cu ft | 33.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3982 lbs | 4610 lbs |
Height | 70.6 in | 68.5 in |
Length | 196.5 in | 203.7 in |
Width | 78.6 in | 78.5 in |
Wheelbase | 111.0 in | 120.5 in |
Maximum Payload | 1563 lbs | 1560 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | 3500 lbs |
The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite a 2019 refresh and the introduction of the 2020 Black Edition, the SUV's exterior design remained polarizing. The Pilot was available in seven trims, ranging from the base LX to the upscale Black Edition, with prices between $32,250 and $49,920. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional $2,000 on most trims. The new Special Edition trim added features like black 20-inch alloy wheels and wireless smartphone charging.
The Black Edition, which we tested, came fully loaded with a $395 Platinum White Pearl paint job, bringing the total to $51,435. It featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents and ambient lighting. However, the black floor mats were a hassle to clean, especially for pet owners. The interior quality was high, with a flat dashboard and low center console giving it a minivan-like feel, which, combined with its exterior design, did not enhance its appeal.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling. The Sienna featured a bold front end and cleverly re-engineered sliding doors that hid the slider channel, giving it a sleek profile. Standard 17-inch wheels could be upgraded to 18 or 20 inches on higher trims. Inside, the Sienna avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered design and ample storage, including an under-console area and numerous cup holders. The second and third rows offered comfortable seating, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench that folded into the floor.
The Sienna's interior was designed for family convenience, with power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, making it easy to load cargo or passengers. The minivan could carry a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, showcasing its practicality. Cargo space was generous, with 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, adding to its versatility.
The 2021 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and refined power delivery, making the SUV quick and responsive. A nine-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system available. The AWD system could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel, enhancing traction. The Pilot also included Hill Start Assist and Intelligent Traction Management with Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes.
Fuel-saving features like variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start helped the AWD Pilot achieve an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined, with our test vehicle averaging 21.5 mpg. The Pilot's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provided a comfortable ride and surprisingly agile handling. The torque-vectoring AWD system, 20-inch wheels, and responsive steering contributed to an enjoyable driving experience. However, the brakes could heat up and vibrate with prolonged use. Off-road capability was limited by the Pilot's 7.3 inches of ground clearance and all-season tires.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna continued with its hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an available all-wheel-drive system that added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering smooth and efficient power delivery. Drivers could choose from four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport.
The Sienna's handling was impressive for a minivan, thanks to its Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform, which included a front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension. Body roll was minimal, and the Sienna provided a comfortable and composed ride. The hybrid powertrain delivered excellent fuel economy, with the EPA rating the FWD Sienna at 36 mpg combined and the AWD model at 35 mpg combined. The 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack was located under the front seats and came with a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty.
The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, seating up to eight people with a second-row bench seat. The test vehicle's leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats were comfortable, with the driver's seat featuring 10-way power adjustment. The front passenger seat had only four-way adjustment but sat high enough for proper leg support. Second-row captain’s chairs were optional on the Touring trim and standard on Elite and Black Edition models, providing nearly the same comfort as the front seats and sliding forward for easier third-row access.
The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults due to its low and flat bottom cushion. Storage was abundant, with compartments in the door panels, center console, and front seatback pockets. The EX-L trim and higher included a power tailgate, with hands-free operation available on higher trims. Cargo space was 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and 83.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 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 standard 60/40-split third-row bench easily folded into the floor, and each row had ample storage cubbies and cupholders.
Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience, allowing easy access when carrying groceries or a child. The Sienna's interior was designed for family use, with thoughtful storage solutions and comfortable seating for all passengers.
The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, text-messaging support, satellite radio, and a basic version of HondaLink connected services. The Special Edition trim added wireless phone charging, while the Touring trim included navigation, a WiFi hotspot, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and more. The infotainment system was adequate but had a small screen and limited voice-recognition capabilities. HondaLink subscription services were only available on higher trims.
The Touring trim also added a rear-seat entertainment system with a 115-volt power outlet, an HDMI port, and a Cabin Talk feature that allowed the driver to communicate with rear-seat passengers through the stereo speakers or headphones. The system played DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and streaming audio apps, but many kids preferred using the WiFi and their devices.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen standard on all trims, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, one USB media port, and six USB charging ports. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sienna included a one-year trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect telematics services, a 10-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect with 2 gigabytes of data. Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming were standard, with Qi wireless phone charging available on higher trims.
Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup on the LE to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system was available on XLE and above, featuring an 11.6-inch 1080p display, remote, and two wireless headphones. The Sienna also offered a color multi-information display, with a 10-inch head-up display on Platinum models. Limited and Platinum trims could upgrade to a digital rearview mirror, providing a clear view even with a full load of passengers. Remote keyless entry with push-button start was standard, upgraded to the Smart Key System on higher trims.
The 2021 Honda Pilot came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Starting with the EX trim, the Pilot also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. However, the older version of Honda Sensing was not as smooth or refined as newer systems, and the lane-departure warning system's steering wheel wobble was intrusive.
The Pilot received favorable crash-test ratings, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarding it a five-star overall rating, despite four-star marks for front-passenger protection in a frontal impact. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Pilot its highest "good" ratings, except for an "acceptable" score for front passenger small overlap frontal-impact protection. The standard headlights earned an "acceptable" rating, while higher trims received a "good" rating.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, Lane Tracing Assist, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition. The Sienna also featured Toyota's Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and electronic brake-force distribution.
The Sienna came with 10 airbags and multiple LATCH child-seat connectors, with five locations for eight-passenger models and four for seven-passenger models. A rear-seat reminder system was standard, as were tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit. Buyers could opt for a spare tire, now located in the cargo space wall for safety and convenience.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Honda Pilot is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Sienna scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Sienna is the clear winner, offering better fuel economy, advanced safety features, and superior practicality for families.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Sienna if:
- You want a minivan with excellent fuel economy and a hybrid powertrain.
- You need a versatile family vehicle with ample cargo space and convenient power-operated doors.
- You prioritize advanced safety features and top safety ratings.
Choose the 2021 Honda Pilot if:
- You prefer a traditional SUV design with a rugged appearance.
- You need a vehicle with a powerful V6 engine and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive.
- You value a spacious interior with ample storage and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Honda Pilot is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Sienna scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Sienna is the clear winner, offering better fuel economy, advanced safety features, and superior practicality for families.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Sienna if:
Shop Now- You want a minivan with excellent fuel economy and a hybrid powertrain.
- You need a versatile family vehicle with ample cargo space and convenient power-operated doors.
- You prioritize advanced safety features and top safety ratings.
Choose the 2021 Honda Pilot if:
Shop Now- You prefer a traditional SUV design with a rugged appearance.
- You need a vehicle with a powerful V6 engine and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive.
- You value a spacious interior with ample storage and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers.

By: CarGurus + AI
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