2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna occupied a unique space in the automotive market, standing firm as a minivan amidst the SUV surge. While many manufacturers abandoned the minivan segment, Toyota remained committed, evolving the Sienna through four generations since its debut in 1998. The latest model embraced an SUV-like style with a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels, offering an assertive profile. Inside, the Sienna provided a spacious and practical cabin with ample storage, comfortable seating, and a third-row bench that folded into the floor, making it a versatile family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, presenting a rugged yet somewhat disjointed appearance. Its trapezoidal grille and upright fascia gave it a robust look, but the side profile's swooping character line added unnecessary visual weight. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element, creating a unique but less jarring interior. The cabin offered practical storage solutions and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen, though some materials and design choices, like the light grey fabric upholstery, were less appealing.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna continued with its hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered both FWD and AWD options, with the latter adding a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna used a CVT for smooth power delivery and featured four drive modes. Its handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, and it boasted impressive fuel economy, achieving 36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD.

The Highlander Hybrid shared the same 2.5-liter hybrid engine, also producing 243 horsepower and paired with a CVT. It offered FWD as standard, with AWD available through an additional electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than its gasoline counterparts. Its ride quality was comfortable, with a soft suspension that handled bumps well, though the engine's drone during acceleration was less refined. The Highlander excelled in quietness on highways, provided the engine wasn't pushed too hard.

The Sienna excelled as a family workhorse, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo, with 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second, and 101 cubic feet behind the first. It also had a 3,500-pound towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, along with ample storage and cupholders, enhanced its practicality.

The Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. It provided generous second-row space with sliding and reclining captain's chairs, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity.

The Sienna featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various telematics services, Bluetooth, and optional Qi wireless charging. Higher trims included a 12-speaker JBL 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.

The Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Limited and Platinum trims offered navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, though the larger screen's glossy surface could be reflective.

The 2022 Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA. It included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and more. Ten airbags and multiple LATCH connectors were standard, along with a rear-seat reminder system.

The Highlander Hybrid also earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. It featured adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems required fine-tuning, with abrupt stops and resistance in lane-keep assist noted.