2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature design elements like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with a white contrasting roof. The electric XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Despite these subtle differences, the Recharge maintained a low-key appearance, appealing to those who preferred understated electric vehicles. Inside, the XC40 boasted a minimalist design with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a cohesive and premium interior experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. It featured a bold front end and cleverly re-engineered door hinges to hide the slider channel, enhancing its sleek profile. The Sienna's interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering an uncluttered front cabin with ample storage solutions throughout. It provided comfortable seating for second- and third-row passengers, with options for captain’s chairs and a spacious third-row bench. The third row could be easily stowed away, and the second-row seats slid significantly to facilitate access. The Sienna's design prioritized practicality and comfort, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for AWD, generating a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, providing a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality and the capability for one-pedal driving. Notably, the Recharge model had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna continued with its hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available across all trims, adding a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled CVT, offering smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel efficiency. It featured four selectable drive modes and impressive handling for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform. The Sienna excelled in fuel economy, achieving 36 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD variants. Its 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack was strategically placed under the front seats, backed by a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not the most spacious in its class, offered clever storage solutions to maximize utility. It featured a removable trash bin in the center console, a bag hook in the glovebox, and large door bins due to the relocation of audio system speakers. However, the XC40 Recharge had limited legroom and cargo space compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The frunk was also small, with much of the space occupied by powertrain components.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. It offered 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna's 60/40-split third-row bench easily stowed into the floor, and the second-row seats provided flexibility for loading cargo. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, with foot-motion triggers, added convenience for families on the go.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering top-notch graphics and menu layouts. The Recharge model also introduced OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without dealership visits. However, the system's reliance on Google's interface might not appeal to all users.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect, along with a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also offered a digital rearview mirror and a head-up display on Platinum models, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, including a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model included Volvo's latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna offered 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, prioritizing family safety.