2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Audi Q5

The 2022 Toyota Sienna occupied a unique space in the automotive market, standing firm as a minivan while many competitors shifted focus to SUVs. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident through its history, from the original Van in the 1980s to the innovative Previa and the subsequent generations of the Sienna. The fourth-generation Sienna, launched in 2021, embraced an SUV-like style without hiding its minivan roots. It featured a bold front end, cleverly re-engineered sliding doors, and an assertive profile with wheel options ranging from 17 to 20 inches. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin with ample storage, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and a versatile third-row bench that folded into the floor.

The 2023 Audi Q5, on the other hand, combined subtle curves with angular accents for a classy yet sporty appearance. Available in both a regular SUV and a sleeker Sportback version, the Q5's design included a distinctive spoiler-like element above the taillights. Inside, the Q5 maintained a refined and straightforward layout, though its age was beginning to show. Standard features included leather seating and heated front seats, with options for a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system was user-friendly, and the materials quality was good, though not as special as it once was. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed durable plastic elements, ensuring longevity for families with children and pets.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna carried over its hybrid powertrain from the previous year, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an all-wheel-drive option available on all trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the mechanical setup. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), offering smooth power delivery and maximizing fuel efficiency. Drivers could choose from four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, thanks to its advanced suspension and steering systems. Fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg in all driving conditions and AWD models getting 35 mpg.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine choices. The base 40 TFSI featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The midrange 45 TFSI increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and was the sole engine for the Q5 Sportback. The 55 TFSI plug-in hybrid (PHEV) delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 23 miles of electric-only range. All Q5 models came with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a noticeable delay in power delivery, making initial acceleration feel sluggish. However, once underway, the power was adequate. Handling was sporty and precise, instilling confidence on curvy roads. The Q5 balanced compliance and cornering well, with a quiet cabin and minimal road and wind noise.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed to be a family workhorse, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading luggage and freight. Cargo space measured 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The standard 60/40-split third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and each row had ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience for busy families.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design had remained largely unchanged since its 2018 redesign but had aged well. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned atop the dash for easy visibility, and traditional dials and buttons controlled the climate system. Outward visibility was good, aided by a narrow front roof pillar and a better-than-average rear view. The front seats provided ample space for taller passengers, and the rear seats accommodated six-footers comfortably. The Sportback model only slightly reduced headroom. Storage options included several oddly shaped pockets, a wireless phone charger, and accommodating door pockets. Cargo space measured 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with the Sportback offering 24.7 cubic feet.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a wealth of standard and available technology features. A 9-inch touchscreen was standard across all trims, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sienna included a one-year trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, a 10-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. A head-up display and digital rearview mirror were available on top trims, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Audi Q5 featured a standard 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick responses. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available wirelessly. Higher trims included a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Q5 could be monitored remotely via a smartphone app, offering features like unlocking and temperature pre-conditioning. Mid-range trims benefited from a customizable digital instrument panel, providing essential information at a glance.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition. The Sienna also had 10 airbags, multiple LATCH child-seat connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, tire-pressure monitoring, and an inflator kit.

The 2023 Audi Q5 also earned top safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and front and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera system, traffic jam assist, matrix-design LED headlights, a head-up display, a semi-automated parking system, and a traffic sign reader. Rear-seat side impact airbags were optional on all trims.