2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Toyota Sienna occupied a unique position in the automotive market. Minivans were often unjustly pushed aside by the rising popularity of SUVs, but Toyota never shied away from this class of vehicles. With a lineage dating back to the 1984 Toyota Van and its innovative successors like the mid-engined Previa, the Sienna firmly established itself in 1998. The fourth-generation Sienna, which arrived in 2021 and carried over into 2022, didn't shy away from its minivan identity but incorporated SUV-like styling cues to stay relevant.

The Sienna’s exterior design was assertive, with Toyota going the extra mile to re-engineer door hinges and sliding mechanics to make it look less like a traditional minivan. Featuring a macho front end and seamlessly integrated rear door channels, the Sienna had a solid stance. Wheel options ranged from standard 17-inch alloys to larger 18- and 20-inch variants on upper trims, enhancing its street presence.

Inside, the Sienna offered an uncluttered design, focusing heavily on practicality. The spacious interior provided ample storage, including innovative areas like under-console storage. With seating for up to eight passengers, the minivan featured comfortable second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a spacious third-row bench capable of conveniently folding into the floor. The Sienna avoided the school-bus vibe despite its functionality, making it a pleasant environment for families.

Volvo made significant strides in vehicle design since the days of the boxy 240DL and 700 series. The 2023 XC90 exemplified this transformation with its sleek yet purposeful appearance. The front end was stout and solid without being overly flashy, and its assertive grille and signature Thor’s Hammer headlights brought a modern flair that stands out.

Our AWD Ultimate test model featured 21-inch wheels that filled the wheel wells nicely, adding a touch of drama to the otherwise tasteful exterior. The Platinum Gray paint, with subtle brown undertones, varied in richness depending on the lighting, making the XC90 an understated yet attractive choice.

Inside, the XC90 exuded Scandinavian elegance. Highlights included two-tone leather on the steering wheel, classy wood inlays, and luxuries like an Orrefors crystal shift knob and Nappa leather upholstery. Despite its minimalist and clean design, the XC90 suffered a bit from insufficient cubby space for personal items.

The Sienna, continuing from its 2021 model, featured an exclusive hybrid powertrain—a noteworthy inclusion, given Toyota's history in producing hybrids. It utilized a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, generating 243 horsepower. Buyers had the choice of FWD or AWD, the latter incorporating an additional electric motor driving the rear wheels with 54 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque.

The Sienna boasted an electronically controlled CVT, offering smooth power delivery, and four selectable drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Its handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, largely due to its TNGA platform, which included a well-tuned front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension.

Fuel efficiency was the Sienna’s highlight, with the EPA clocking 36 mpg city, highway, and combined for FWD models, and slightly lower ratings for the AWD variants.

Volvo retired the previously turbocharged T5 and turbo-and-supercharged T6 engines in favor of the new mild-hybrid B5 and B6 setups. The B5, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, produced 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The B6 added a supercharger to the mix, delivering 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Mild-hybrid technology distinguished these powertrains from full hybrids. Rather than driving the car exclusively on electric power, the 48-volt mild-hybrid system powered auxiliary functions, smoothing out the start-stop system and aiding in fuel efficiency. However, these models didn’t achieve the high fuel economy of full hybrids.

Despite its bulky dimensions, the XC90 handled corners well due to its lower body roll, and the eight-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth and responsive shifts. The driving experience was quiet and composed, with commendable road and wind noise insulation. Its braking system provided a solid, confidence-inspiring pedal feel, essential for a luxury SUV.

The Sienna proved to be a family workhorse capable of carrying a 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second-row seats added considerable flexibility for both passengers and cargo. Standard cargo measurements were 33.5 cubic feet behind the third-row seats, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and a substantial 101 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Additionally, the Sienna could tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Every row offered ample cupholders and storage spaces, making it highly practical for families. Power-operated side sliding doors and a rear tailgate added convenience, particularly when approaching the vehicle with arms full.

The XC90 excelled in front-seat comfort but fell short in practical storage solutions. The second-row seats offered reasonable space but were tricky to adjust. The standard layout included a seven-passenger configuration, but choosing six-passenger seating with captain’s chairs required additional costs and an engine upgrade.

Accessing the third row was challenging, and once back there, space was limited. Cargo capacity was competitive with 12.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Although decent, these figures lagged behind competitors like the Infiniti QX60 and Acura MDX.

The Sienna came loaded with standard tech features, including a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, alongside multiple USB ports. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a noticeable omission.

Higher trims offered advanced multimedia systems, from a six-speaker audio setup to a 12-speaker JBL system, along with optional rear-seat entertainment. Drivers could benefit from a 10-inch head-up display and a digital rearview mirror in higher trims, enhancing safety and convenience.

Volvo's XC90 featured an advanced infotainment system running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more. Despite its smart design and intuitive voice control, many functions were buried in the touchscreen, which could be frustrating for some.

While natural language recognition was excellent, the reliance on the touchscreen for functions like seat adjustments and climate control detracted from the user experience. Drivers and passengers needed to spend time getting used to this system.

The 2022 Sienna received stellar safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. Standard safety features under Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and more.

Additionally, the Sienna had 10 airbags, multiple LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. This focus on safety made it a compelling choice for families.

Volvo, known for its safety heritage, delivered with the 2023 XC90. It matched the Sienna’s five-star NHTSA rating and Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety tech included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving.

Volvo’s long-standing emphasis on safety made the XC90 a trustworthy vehicle, particularly for those driving in busy or challenging conditions.