2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. It featured upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner, which contributed to its upscale appearance. The addition of standard LED headlights across all models further enhanced its visual appeal. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim, in particular, exuded a sense of luxury, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Palisade impressed with its premium Nappa leather and suede headliner, offering a cabin that felt more expensive than its price suggested.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling elements. It featured a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered door hinges to conceal the slider channel, giving it a more assertive profile. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample storage and seating options. The Sienna's cabin avoided the typical minivan feel, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers. With its focus on functionality, the Sienna catered to families with its versatile seating arrangements and abundant storage solutions.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a robust 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower. It featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, along with a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its suspension provided excellent body-motion control, offering a firm yet comfortable ride. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and it featured a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery. Its fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Sienna's handling was enhanced by its TNGA platform, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The hybrid system's battery pack was strategically placed under the front seats, contributing to the vehicle's overall efficiency.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility. It featured eight-way power-adjustable seats for the driver and passenger, with additional thigh support for the driver. The front and second-row seats were heated and ventilated, while third-row passengers enjoyed separate climate controls. The Palisade offered ample in-cabin storage, with a spacious front centre console and door panels. Cargo space was generous, with 509 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,447 litres with the seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a family workhorse, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row provided flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and all rows featured storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience for busy families.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen displays. Both systems allowed for dual smartphone pairing via Bluetooth, with the 8-inch setup offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional technology included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display. The Palisade's surround-view camera system aided in parking and maneuvering.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came standard with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless smartphone integration was absent, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's digital rearview mirror provided a clear view of the road, even with a full load of passengers.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade prioritized safety with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It included a rear occupant alert system and active blind-spot monitoring. The Palisade's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. The Sienna also offered blind-spot monitoring and a rear-seat reminder system. With 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors, the Sienna prioritized passenger safety.