2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna managed to gracefully blend minivan utility with some SUV-like design cues that appealed to a broader range of consumers. Featuring a bold macho front-end and re-engineered door hinges to minimize the visibility of the sliding mechanism, the Sienna aimed for a more streamlined, robust profile, which aligned well with modern family preferences. With aesthetic touches such as integrated styling on the rear doors and larger wheel options on higher trims, it asserted a more commanding stance that stood out among minivans. Inside, Toyota went for a minimalist dashboard layout that resisted the typical school-bus feel, enhancing the driving experience.

On the other hand, the 2022 Toyota Highlander displayed a modern and aggressive design with its flared fender arches and a distinctive kick-up in its third-row windows. These design choices helped the substantial SUV appear less bulky, yet once inside, the spacious cabin proved to be a haven of cleverly laid-out storage and comfort. Special attention should be drawn to the XSE model which featured a stunning combination of a navy blue exterior with a vibrant red leather interior, achieving a contrast that might remind one of luxury sports SUVs.

Performance-wise, the Sienna embraced efficiency over raw power. It was exclusively equipped with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors to deliver a modest 243 horsepower. In contrast, handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, attributable to Toyota’s TNGA platform. Most notably, the Sienna excelled in fuel economy, achieving up to 36 mpg with its hybrid system, setting a high bar for family-friendly efficiency.

The Highlander, equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, offered 295 horsepower, surpassing the Sienna in terms of sheer power. This translated to more dynamic acceleration and an ability to comfortably handle highway overtake maneuvers. Despite its power, when configured as a hybrid, it also offered commendable fuel efficiency. The sport-tuned suspension in the XSE model ensured that the ride was comfortable yet poised, even during more spirited driving.

In terms of interior space and functionality, the Sienna brilliantly catered to the needs of active families. It could accommodate a variety of seating configurations and offered vast storage—from 33.5 up to 101 cubic feet depending on seat arrangement. It was particularly noted for its ability to haul large items like plywood flat in the cargo area, a unique benefit for a minivan. Also, features like power-operated doors added convenience.

The Highlander, while slightly less spacious with up to 84.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, still offered ample room and was equipped with intuitive quick-release latches for seat adjustments, facilitating easy transitions between passenger and cargo modes. The presence of second-row captain’s chairs and a hands-free power liftgate in higher trims emphasized comfort and ease of use, particularly for family road trips.

Technology in both vehicles was competitive, with touchscreens, multiple USB ports, and integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa standard in both. The Sienna, however, pushed slightly ahead with more standard features across all trims, like a plethora of USB ports and advanced connectivity services. It also offered options such as a high-quality JBL audio system and a digital rearview mirror, which were valuable add-ons for tech-savvy consumers.

The Highlander’s technology suite was robust, but it didn’t significantly exceed the Sienna’s offerings except for the available larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and adaptive sound system settings available in higher trims.