Toyota Sienna vs Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was available starting at $41,995, including the destination charge, for the base LE trim with front-wheel drive. Buyers could upgrade to higher trims like XLE, Bronze Edition, Limited, and Platinum, with all-wheel drive as an optional feature. The test vehicle arrived in the top Platinum trim with AWD, priced at $54,718. Changes for 2023 were minimal, with a new Cypress Green paint and standard power-folding mirrors for Limited and Platinum trims. The Highlander Hybrid's design was criticized for being overly styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior, despite being quiet on the road, was noted for its dubious quality, with mismatched textures and inexpensive-feeling controls.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, available in trims like LE, XLE, XSE, Woodland Edition, Limited, and Platinum, maintained a distinctive look. The Sienna's design was complemented by sleek front and rear fascias and vibrant color options. The XSE trim, tested for its sporty appeal, featured a black metallic mesh grille and 20-inch dark wheels. The Woodland Edition offered off-road readiness with roof rails, a tow hitch, and increased ground clearance. Inside, the Sienna provided a spacious feel with horizontal design lines and a fixed center console. While not luxurious, the interior was practical for family use, with features like a built-in vacuum cleaner in upper trims.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. The AWD version added a third electric motor for the rear wheels. Despite its hybrid setup, the Highlander Hybrid struggled with high-speed passing and towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with a Trail mode for light off-road use. Fuel economy was a focus, but the test vehicle returned only 28.7 mpg compared to the EPA's 35 mpg estimate. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a noisy CVT.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, also a hybrid, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 245 horsepower. AWD models included an additional motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's performance was not thrilling, with sluggish acceleration and a loud CVT. However, it offered a smooth ride around town, with Normal, Eco, and EV modes for different driving conditions. The brakes were noted for being grabby, but the steering was light and accurate. While not the most exciting to drive, the Sienna provided a pleasant experience for everyday use.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. Most models featured second-row captain's chairs, making the third row best for occasional use. The interior included three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and power-adjustable front seats. However, the third-row access was tight, and the seats were uncomfortable for adults. The Highlander offered 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. Storage solutions were criticized for being unlined and complex.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space, with a lower storage pass-through and multiple cupholders. The second-row captain's chairs offered 40 inches of legroom and an ottoman for relaxation, though they couldn't be removed, limiting cargo space. The third row was accessible for adults and provided ample legroom. The Sienna featured tri-zone climate control and a rear liftgate with 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 101 cubic feet with the second row folded. The interior was practical for family use, with thoughtful storage solutions and easy-to-use features.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system. The system offered over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The test vehicle included a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. While the infotainment platform was user-friendly, the graphics lacked contrast, making it difficult to see details on the screen.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna retained older infotainment technology, with a nine-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included physical buttons for common menus, but the backup camera's grainy view was disappointing. The Sienna offered a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM radio, and an optional 12-speaker JBL stereo. USB ports were plentiful, and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt outlet was available. The Sienna's technology was functional but lacked the modern features found in newer systems.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Highlander also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The ADAS performed well, though it occasionally struggled with lane markings. The Highlander received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna included the Toyota Safety Sense suite, with features like lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna's systems generally worked well, though lane-keeping assist exhibited some side-to-side movement. The minivan offered ample airbags and reminders for rear passengers. The Sienna received high safety ratings, with four out of five stars from the NHTSA for frontal crash and rollover protection, and top scores from the IIHS in most categories.