2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Kia Sportage

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays gave it a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel options added to its assertive stance. The interior emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a well-organized dashboard. The second and third rows provided ample space and comfort, with the second row sliding to configure the space as needed.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sportage featured a design that was both stylish and functional, despite some criticism of its front grille. The SUV boasted a planted stance with 19-inch wheels and design cues reminiscent of German cars. Inside, the Sportage offered a high-contrast, upscale look with metallic accents and comfortable seating. The dashboard was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo and cabin temperature. The overall feel was one of quality and sophistication.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter using a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna used a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, tended to blunt throttle response. The vehicle featured four selectable drive modes and improved handling thanks to new suspension systems. Its fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg in all categories and AWD models slightly lower.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 181 horsepower and a more robust 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in the SX Turbo, producing 240 horsepower (237 with AWD) and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a six-speed automatic transmission, with the option of Kia's Dynamax all-wheel-drive system. The SX Turbo provided quick acceleration and a sporty driving experience, especially in Sport mode. The suspension system offered a smooth ride, though the steering and tires could be more responsive. Overall, the Sportage was fun to drive but not as refined as some competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and cargo handling. It featured a standard third-row bench that folded into the floor and a second row that slid up to 25 inches for easy access. The cabin offered 16 cupholders and ample storage space. The Sienna could carry a full sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed and had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, while smaller, provided a roomy passenger compartment. The SX Turbo trim offered perforated leather seats with power adjustments and heating/ventilation. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. The Sportage's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 60.1 cubic feet with the seats down and 30.7 cubic feet behind the back seat. However, it featured a smart liftgate for hands-free access, which could be turned off if not needed.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with a nine-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various connectivity trials and Bluetooth streaming. Higher trims featured a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver enjoyed a multi-information display and, in Platinum trim, a 10-inch Head-Up Display. A digital rearview mirror was also available on higher trims.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims included UVO Link services, wireless charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though it lacked some advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring. Despite these limitations, the system was easy to navigate and use.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System and 10 airbags. A rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring were standard. While crash-test ratings for 2021 were not yet available, the 2020 model received high marks from both IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Sportage included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance as standard. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The SX Turbo trim earned an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Overall, the Sportage was considered a safe SUV by both NHTSA and IIHS.