2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched as a 2016 model. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, while the interior boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim. Volvo offered both Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery, with the latter being a sustainable option as the brand aimed to go leather-free by 2030.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV styling cues. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's evolution, with the fourth generation debuting in 2021. The Sienna featured a macho front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels, giving it an assertive profile. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage, comfortable seating, and a third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's design focused on practicality and convenience, with power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate that could be activated with a foot motion.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, starting with the T5 model's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a robust 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The T5 models were available in FWD and AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's fuel economy varied, with the T5 FWD achieving 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, and the T8 offering 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its handling and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available across all trims. The Sienna used a CVT for smooth and efficient power delivery, with selectable drive modes including Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling was commendable for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform and independent rear suspension. The Sienna excelled in fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg city/highway/combined, and AWD models slightly lower at 35 mpg city/36 mpg highway/35 mpg combined. The Sienna's battery pack was strategically placed under the front seats, contributing to its efficient design.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The XC90's towing capacity ranged from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a family workhorse, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with measurements of 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's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds. The third-row bench folded easily into the floor, and each row offered storage cubbies and cupholders. The power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, activated by foot motion, provided convenience for busy families.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality with gestures such as pinch, pull, and swipe. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional Advanced package with a head-up display and 360-degree camera. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. The XC90 also offered USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle control.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a standard 9-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While wireless connectivity for these features was absent, the Sienna included a range of telematics services and a WiFi trial. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's instrument panel featured a multi-information display, with a head-up display available on Platinum models. The digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System added convenience and safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, featuring a comprehensive suite of safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 earned top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also included 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system. It received top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star rating from NHTSA.