2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

In 2021, Toyota aimed to elevate the status of minivans from mere functional family carriers to vehicles with a touch of style. They attempted this transformation with the Sienna Hybrid. At first glance, it had an SUV-like appearance, enhanced by a broad grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that seamlessly merged into a panel featuring a prominent Toyota logo. From the side, the Sienna exhibited an assertive stance courtesy of sculpted sliding side doors. This rework demanded innovative hinge and slide solutions, resulting in a sleek look rarely seen in minivans. Depending on the grade, alloy wheels varied in size from 17 to 20 inches, contributing to a robust aesthetic. The rear view was dominated by a substantial window, maintaining an impression of width and low height, certainly quite refined for a minivan.

Internally, the Sienna emphasized horizontal lines to broaden the cabin’s feel. While it didn't entirely break free from its minivan roots, it offered an elevated seating position, blending comfort with a slightly higher vantage point compared to sedans. The dashboard remained streamlined, housing controls within easy reach below the infotainment screen. The center console, bridging the dash and storage compartment, featured an innovative tray perfect for keeping personal items. Overall, the interior materials and surfaces felt premium and durable, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to quality.

Conversely, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander sought to make a bold visual statement. Adopting the "Dynamic Shield" design, the front styling was daring yet tastefully balanced across the vehicle’s length. The Outlander boasted standard 20-inch wheels, adding to its upscale look across ES, SE, SE Launch Edition, SEL, and SEL Launch Edition trims. The price range started at $25,795 and extended to $35,345, with AWD tacking on an additional $1,800. The test model, an AWD SEL trim with White Diamond paint and the Touring Package, was finely appointed, complete with semi-aniline leather, a head-up display (HUD), and a premium audio system.

Inside, the Outlander used generous black and Saddle Tan materials, with aluminum accents lending a minimalist yet sophisticated look. Though an upscale ambiance was successfully achieved, certain budget-constrained plastic elements reminded one of its place in the market. Nevertheless, the interior was a notable step forward for Mitsubishi, balancing comfort and style with practicality.

Toyota's 2021 Sienna Hybrid showcased the company’s hybrid prowess by introducing a minivan with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, presenting a combined output of 243 horsepower. The front-wheel drive was standard, while an all-wheel drive configuration was available across all trims. The AWD system cleverly used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, generating 54 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque, which simplified mechanics. It utilized a CVT, known for its smooth power delivery albeit at the expense of spirited throttle response. Despite a slightly subdued driving experience, the handling saw great improvements, presenting minimal body roll and impressive ride comfort. The most notable metric was its fuel efficiency, boasting 36 mpg in the city, highway, and combined for FWD models, and a slight variance for AWD versions at 35/36/35 mpg respectively.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander equipped its models with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. A CVT drove the front wheels unless one opted for Mitsubishi’s S-AWC AWD system. Despite marketing the S-AWC as "Super," it relied on a brake-induced torque vectoring rather than mechanical, which somewhat limited its effectiveness. While paddle shifters allowed manual control, it often fell short of delivering significant driving pleasure. The Outlander supported multiple driving modes, though modes such as Eco and Tarmac felt underwhelming. In urban settings, the vehicle managed well; however, on highways or when necessitating quick acceleration or passing maneuvers, its power deficit was evident. It delivered a less confident drive, with its ride quality feeling a bit firm and handling uninspiring. Our testing saw it achieving 24.9 mpg, slightly below the EPA-rated 26 mpg for AWD models.

Minivans, like the 2021 Toyota Sienna, were utility-centric vehicles designed to optimize space for passengers and cargo. The Sienna provided ample configurability with a third-row 60/40-split bench that could stow away into the floor effortlessly. The second row, capable of sliding 25 inches, facilitated easy access to rear seats. Storage compartments and cupholders were generously distributed, totaling 16 cupholders throughout the cabin. The Sienna could house a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate shut, underscoring its practicality. Cargo space was measured at 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and further to 101.0 cubic feet behind the first row. This flexibility was complemented by the hybrid battery’s clever placement under the front seats, which did not compromise cargo room. The Sienna had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, catering to diverse family needs.

Similarly functional but diverging in design approach, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander offered a spacious and comfortable front-seat experience, with heated seats and steering wheel, and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat enhancing traveling ease. However, the center console did not fully utilize the space available, providing less storage than competitors. Rear seats generously accommodated adults, embedded on tracks for adjustable legroom. Unlike the Sienna, the third-row seating in the Outlander was less practical, only suitable for children due to limited space. Moreover, its proximity to the tailgate raised safety concerns for young passengers. Cargo space was significantly lesser compared to the Sienna, accommodating just 11.7 cubic feet with the third row up, extending to 33.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 78.3 cubic feet with seats folded, slightly less if equipped with a panoramic sunroof.

Technology was a strong suit for the 2021 Toyota Sienna, packed with an array of features starting with a standard nine-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, coupled with SiriusXM and multiple USB ports. Connectivity was robust with a year’s trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, a decade-long Service Connect, and a three-month AT&T WiFi Connect trial. Audio systems ascended from a base six-speaker setup to a premier JBL package with 12 speakers and surround sound. The driver benefited from a variety of tech aids, including a color multi-information display and a 10-inch HUD in Platinum trims. A digital rearview mirror and smart entry systems provided further convenience.

In comparison, the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander incorporated standout features, especially with the 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and an impressive HUD visible even with polarized sunglasses. A nine-inch touchscreen offered wireless Apple CarPlay, and the included two-year Mitsubishi Connect subscription ensured advanced technological engagement. However, voice recognition needed improvement, often struggling with commands while driving. The 10-speaker Bose audio system marked a notable enhancement in sound quality for Mitsubishi, further elevating the tech experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was equipped with the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which included dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision systems with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure alerts, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. Standard across all trims, these safety systems were bolstered by the Star Safety System offering enhanced vehicle stability, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. The inclusion of 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors added to its family-friendly safety credentials. A TPMS and redesigned spare tire placement improved safety and convenience.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured Mi-Pilot Assist, akin to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, delivering commendable refinement and smooth functionality. This Level 2 hands-on system enhanced the Outlander’s driving experience by making steering assistance and lane-keeping less intrusive. The vehicle also included standard forward collision avoidance, safe reversing, blind-spot warning, and more. However, without crash-test results at the time of review, it was difficult to offer a definitive safety rating.