2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood as a testament to Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment, even as other manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. The Sienna's design cleverly incorporated SUV-like elements, such as a macho front end and re-engineered door hinges that concealed the slider channel, giving it a more assertive stance. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin, with clever storage solutions and comfortable seating for all passengers. The interior design avoided the typical minivan feel, providing a more refined and uncluttered experience for drivers and passengers alike.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded luxury and elegance, capturing attention with its sleek and sporty design. The Velar's exterior was a masterclass in style, with its long wheelbase, short overhangs, and signature Land Rover grille. The interior matched the exterior's sophistication, featuring high-quality materials and a polished black center stack. Despite being a base model, the Velar's cabin was well-appointed, with a focus on fit and finish. The Velar's design was both a nod to its Range Rover heritage and a statement of modern luxury.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered by a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup provided a smooth and efficient driving experience, aided by an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Sienna offered four selectable drive modes and boasted impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg in the city and on the highway. The AWD option added an electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without compromising efficiency.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, resulting in a dynamic driving experience. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, delivering 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. The Velar's handling was enhanced by its lower center of gravity and lighter weight, with an optional air suspension providing a plush ride. The Velar also offered a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, available in two power outputs. This powertrain delivered the performance expected from a luxury SUV while reducing emissions.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample cargo space and flexible seating arrangements. With the ability to carry a full 4x8 sheet of plywood, the Sienna was a true family workhorse. Cargo capacity varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 101 cubic feet available behind the first row. The power-operated sliding doors and tailgate added convenience, making it easy to load and unload passengers and cargo.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar prioritized style over space, resulting in a tighter interior compared to midsize SUVs. Rear-seat passengers experienced limited headroom, and cargo space was modest, with 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The Velar's design choices, such as the lack of a discrete parking brake control, highlighted a focus on aesthetics over functionality. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability, offering a more intuitive interface and faster response times.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trim levels offered additional amenities, such as a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna also provided a range of telematics services and a head-up display on Platinum models, enhancing convenience and safety for drivers.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system impressed with its simplified layout and logical arrangement of functions. The system included voice activation, a PM2.5 air filter, and a heated windshield. The Velar's navigation system offered advanced features, such as traffic detours and off-road measurements. Standard technology included LED headlights, a 12-speaker Meridian stereo, and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additional safety features included 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar had not been rated by U.S. safety agencies, but it performed well in European NCAP tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.