2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Acura RDX

The 2021 Toyota Sienna sought to challenge the minivan’s dull image, opting for a more SUV-like aesthetic. The wide grille, LED headlamp arrays, and horizontal arrangements emphasized its width and gave it a sleek, assertive stance. Toyota invested in re-engineering the sliding side doors to feature a sculpted look that merged form with function, allowing the oversized rear wheels to stand out under the 17-inch to 20-inch alloy wheel options. The rear view maintained a low profile with a large window, completing an exterior of impressive fit and finish typical of Toyota’s high standards.

Inside, the Sienna maintained a balance of width and functionality with horizontal lines. The elevated seating position offered comfort without mimicking a full-size SUV's height. The dashboard was neatly organized, and the center console featured cleverly designed storage, a gear shift, and cupholders. The second-row seats provided adaptability with their sliding mechanism, accommodating passengers comfortably whether in captain's chairs or a bench setup.

The aesthetics of the 2022 Acura RDX were subtly refreshed, drawing inspiration from the larger MDX model. Minor improvements to its grille and bumpers added sophistication, while new wheel designs and paint options provided contemporary flair. The PMC Edition, adorned in exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior, highlighted Acura's commitment to luxury.

Inside, the RDX’s cabin was both stylish and ergonomic. The sporty driving position accentuated by a unique knob on the dashboard for the IDS driving mode set it apart. While the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) was unconventional, the overall layout offered comfort and usability. The seats were adjustable, heated, and supportive. The back seats, however, were less favorable, lacking the thigh support and natural angle adults would desire, although they offered convenience when cargo space was prioritized.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna introduced Toyota's first hybrid minivan. It combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT that aimed at efficiency over excitement. The hybrid setup provided consistent power delivery but sacrificed some throttle responsiveness. The selectable drive modes—Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport—modified driving dynamics marginally, with handling significantly improved thanks to the TNGA platform.

The standout feature was its fuel efficiency, offering an impressive 36 mpg across city, highway, and combined for the FWD model, and slightly lower yet commendable figures for the AWD at 35/36/35 mpg. Its handling improvements, minimal body roll, and the ease of covering long distances made it suitable for family trips.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produced a higher 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery, paired with a Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system available on higher trims. This drive system adeptly managed torque distribution, enhancing driving dynamics, particularly on winding roads. However, fuel economy couldn't match the Sienna, averaging 20.6 mpg during testing, falling short of its 23 mpg EPA rating.

The RDX integrated an adaptive-damping suspension and refined IDS for a balance between comfort and responsiveness, further augmented by noise reduction measures that enhanced cabin quietness during drives.

When evaluating convenience, the 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled with its well-considered design. The three-row seating configuration optimized space, with the third-row bench capable of folding into the floor for increased cargo versatility. The second row's impressive 25-inch slide range facilitated easy access and flexible cargo arrangements. It notably offered cargo capacity of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second, and up to 101 cubic feet with the first row accommodating the full potential for hauling. Its practicality extended to power-operated doors and tailgate, enhancing usability for family needs.

Conversely, the 2022 Acura RDX catered to luxury compact SUV buyers with a focus on style and usability. Despite being a compact SUV, it offered ample room for four adults under a panoramic sunroof. The cargo capacity was respectable at 29.5 cubic feet, expanding to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Storage compartments beneath the load floor added valuable hidden storage. The interior, although stylish, demanded acclimatization to its control layout, particularly the TTI. Yet, the power liftgate and available heated seats improved the functional experience.

Beyond its hybrid powertrain, the 2021 Toyota Sienna was rich in technology. It featured a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM. Connectivity was assured with USB ports and Bluetooth across the cabin. Upgraded trims included Premium Audio + JBL packages and a detailed head-up display (HUD) in the Platinum trim. Rear-seat entertainment options and Smart Key Access enhanced the family-friendly tech suite.

The 2022 Acura RDX employed a non-standard TTI infotainment system, which took time to master. A 10.2-inch display paired with this interface complicated interactions initially but became intuitive over time. Technology highlights included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless smartphone integration, and a sophisticated ELS Studio 3D audio system on higher trims. The inclusion of a head-up display and multiple connectivity options provided a modern tech experience, albeit with a learning curve.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came standard with comprehensive safety features under Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision warnings, and more. It was fitted with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, supporting numerous child seats safely. A rear-seat reminder and tire pressure monitoring system added further assurance. While crash-test ratings for the 2021 model were pending, the prior year’s ratings indicated robust safety performance.

For the 2022 Acura RDX, safety upgrades aimed to enhance side-impact protection, potentially maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though ratings were pending. AcuraWatch systems added pedestrian detection, enhanced blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking provided additional safeguards. During our tests, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were reliable but not flawless in challenging conditions.