2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was redefined with an effort to distance itself from the stereotypical minivan image. Designers aimed to give it an SUV-like appearance. The wide grille and horizontally arranged LED headlamp arrays created a sleek look, while a proud Toyota logo was integrated into the panel. From the side, the Sienna showcased sculpted, sliding doors and a bulge over the rear wheels, thanks to a rework in hinges and slides. Various alloy wheel sizes from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the grade, complemented its assertive stance. The rear design featured a large window, yet the minivan still managed to appear wide and low. Toyota, known for its high-quality exterior fit and finish, did not disappoint with the Sienna.

Inside, the Sienna emphasized horizontal lines to create a sense of width. The seating position was elevated for comfort, and the dashboard remained simple, keeping most controls within the upper center stack. The center console featured the gear selector, multiple cupholders, and substantial storage, including a handy tray below for items like handbags. Materials throughout the cabin had a quality feel, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel added to the comfort. The second and third rows were comfortable for adults, with flexibility to slide the second row for maximum utility and ease of access.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged look, tracing its roots back to the 1980s. Unlike many modern SUVs that evolved into car-based platforms, the 4Runner retained the truck-like quality. Its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper underscored its off-road readiness. Inside, the 4Runner's layout reflected its design heritage from the late 2000s, emphasizing function over form.

Trim options were varied: the SR5 offered practical features like push-button start and remote keyless entry, while the Trail Special Edition added 17-inch wheels and a Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket. The TRD models, including the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road, emphasized off-road capabilities and sportier touches. At the top end, the Limited trim blended off-road capability with road-oriented features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, the AWD model used a rear electric motor, making it simpler mechanically. The electronically controlled CVT aimed for smooth power delivery and high fuel efficiency, though it wasn't particularly thrilling to drive. The Sienna offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Handling was significantly improved with the new TNGA suspension system, resulting in minimal body roll and comfortable long-distance travel. Fuel economy was a strong suit, with the FWD models achieving 36 mpg across the board and the AWD models achieving 35/36/35 mpg combined.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a single engine option: a 4.0-liter V6 producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Despite its age, this engine remained reliable but felt underwhelming in most driving situations. A five-speed automatic transmission handled power delivery to either the rear wheels or an optional 4WD system. The ride was harsh and cumbersome, characteristic of traditional trucks. However, the 4Runner excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed bumps, rocks, and root beds with ease. The TRD models included additional off-road features like a locking differential and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System. When properly equipped, the 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, more than most crossovers but not impressive compared to compact pickups.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and convenience functions, meeting the high expectations for minivans. It featured a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily folded into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, enhancing access to the third row. Storage was plentiful, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. Cargo capacity was impressive: 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet with the first row only. The battery pack was cleverly hidden under the front seats, preserving cargo space. The power-operated sliding doors and tailgate responded to kick motions, a convenient feature for families with small children. The Sienna could tow up to 3,500 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner provided maximum cargo capacity of 89.7 cubic feet for the two-row version and slightly less for the three-row model. With all seats in use, the cargo space was limited to 9 cubic feet behind the third row. The three-row 4Runner offered seating for up to seven and 88.8 cubic feet of cargo with rear seats folded. Unlike the Sienna, it lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power rear window for easy access. Though the cabin wasn't spacious by modern standards, it was functional, with various storage spaces.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was packed with standard and available technology. A nine-inch touchscreen powered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with SiriusXM, USB ports, and multiple connectivity options. Higher trims offered premium audio with a 12-speaker JBL package. Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system and a head-up display in Platinum models.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It featured hard buttons and dials, making it user-friendly for glove-wearing drivers. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, but lacked a larger screen upgrade. Navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system were available upgrades. Despite its straightforward layout, it lacked some modern features like a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, and more. It had 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. A tire pressure monitoring system and revised spare tire location added to its safety features. While crash-test ratings for 2021 were pending, the 2020 model received good to adequate ratings from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense with forward automatic emergency braking, collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from NHTSA, with three stars for rollover testing.