2022 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT trim did not impress with its new aesthetic treatment. While the XRT added visual elements like side steps and a rugged appearance, it lacked practical enhancements such as a suspension lift or more aggressive tires that would have made it more convincing for off-road adventures. The side steps, although useful for accessing the roof rack, hindered entry and exit and reduced the vehicle's breakover angle. The XRT trim, priced between the SE/SEL and the turbocharged Limited/Calligraphy trims, included features from the SEL and its Convenience Package, with options for FWD or AWD. The test vehicle, in Portofino Gray with a black cloth interior, lacked visual contrast, resembling an old black-and-white photo. Despite this, the interior design was thoughtful and of high quality for its price point, though not as upscale as higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's design, which featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels. The Sienna's assertive profile and available wheel sizes up to 20 inches added to its appeal. Inside, the Sienna avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered design and ample storage options. The spacious interior accommodated second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a standard third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's interior was designed for family comfort, with features like power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. While not particularly powerful, it was adequate for everyday driving, allowing the Santa Fe to reach freeway speeds and cruise comfortably. The engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and various driving modes, including Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow. The XRT's ride quality was commendable, with excellent suspension isolation and a quiet cabin, thanks to acoustic front-side window glass. However, the engine struggled on hills and lacked responsiveness in certain situations. The Santa Fe XRT averaged 22.3 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA rating of 24 mpg. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine in higher trims offered a more rewarding experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, featured a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering 243 horsepower. The Sienna's hybrid system provided smooth and efficient power delivery through an electronically controlled CVT. With selectable drive modes, including Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport, the Sienna offered versatility for different driving conditions. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. The hybrid powertrain delivered impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models slightly lower at 35 mpg. The Sienna's hybrid system was complemented by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack, ensuring long-term reliability.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT offered a comfortable and practical interior. It featured a dual-zone automatic climate control system with a Clean Air ionizer and rear air conditioning vents. The driver's seat was eight-way power-adjustable and heated, while the rear seats provided ample space for passengers, including room for child-safety seats. The Santa Fe's cargo space was generous, with 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The hands-free power-opening "Smart Tailgate" added convenience, though it occasionally opened unintentionally. Storage compartments throughout the cabin provided additional utility.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, thanks to its flexible seating and cargo configurations. The Sienna 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 power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, along with foot-motion triggers, enhanced convenience for families. The Sienna's interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring numerous storage cubbies, cupholders, and bottle holders in all four side doors.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth, satellite radio, and Bluelink connected services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and clean graphics. While the XRT lacked some advanced features available in higher trims, it included Hyundai's digital key technology for Android devices and a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a comprehensive suite of technology features. A 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa was standard across all trims. The Sienna offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect, along with a WiFi trial. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's technology package included a color multi-information display and an optional head-up display on Platinum models, enhancing driver convenience and safety.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of driver-assist and collision-avoidance systems. It included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The XRT also featured Safe Exit Assist and an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance score.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, forward collision warning, and more. The Sienna featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors for child seats, and a rear-seat reminder system. Tire-pressure monitoring and an inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire for added convenience.