2023 BMW X7 vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in a market where minivans were becoming increasingly rare, as many manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. Despite this trend, Toyota remained committed to the minivan segment, evolving its Sienna model over the years. The fourth-generation Sienna, launched in 2021, embraced a more SUV-like appearance while retaining its minivan identity, thanks to its sliding side doors. The design featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed door hinges, giving it a sleek profile. Inside, the Sienna offered 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 2023 BMW X7 received a mid-cycle refresh, adopting a more aggressive front-end design reminiscent of the BMW 7 Series sedan. The new styling, with its LED accent lights and recessed headlights, was polarizing, but BMW aimed for a bolder look. The interior saw significant updates, including a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The materials used were of high quality, with options for leather upholstery and various wood trims. Despite its size, the X7 maintained a luxurious and modern feel, though some design choices, like the glossy trim, were less practical due to glare issues.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter adding an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery and contributed to its impressive fuel efficiency, achieving up to 36 mpg in combined driving for FWD models. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, thanks to its advanced suspension system, making it a comfortable and efficient family hauler.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup started with the xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 375 horsepower. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 523 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 offered impressive acceleration and handling, with the V8 model reaching 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The ride was firm yet comfortable, embodying BMW's focus on driver engagement and performance.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, offering a spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and its sliding second row allowed for easy loading of cargo. The Sienna provided 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 101 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. It also featured power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate, enhancing convenience for families on the go.

The 2023 BMW X7, as a large SUV, offered ample space for passengers and cargo. The second row was roomy, and the power-operated middle row facilitated access to the third row, which could accommodate average-sized adults. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The X7's split tailgate and adjustable suspension made loading and unloading easier, while the interior provided generous storage options for front-seat passengers.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered a range of telematics services, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional features like a rear-seat entertainment system and a head-up display. Higher trims included a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a digital rearview mirror, enhancing the driving experience with advanced technology.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, though it faced criticism for its reliance on touchscreen controls and complex menu navigation. While basic functions were straightforward, accessing more advanced features required navigating through the infotainment screen. Voice commands offered some relief, but the system's design was seen as a step backward. Despite this, the X7's technology suite remained comprehensive, with options for advanced driver assistance features and a premium audio system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a suite of driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors for child seats, and a rear-seat reminder system, ensuring a high level of safety for families.

The 2023 BMW X7 had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it boasted a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard equipment included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, and options included adaptive cruise control and a highway driving assist feature. These systems performed reliably, enhancing driver confidence and reducing fatigue on long journeys.