2021 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Toyota Sienna
Overview | |
MSRP$26,795 | MSRP$35,285 |
Average price$29,705 | Average price$51,646 |
Listings63 | Listings40 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.8 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.7 out of 10 |
2021 Subaru Outback Reviews SummaryThe Outback, like any Subaru, is an old soul in a young person’s body. It embraces a rosier past of automotive history, back when cars were just cars and drivers were concerned only with driving. It’s conservative, unhip to fashion, and slow. Yet the 2021 Outback—a raised, all-wheel drive (AWD) station wagon like the first 1995 model—has all of today’s essentials and extra technology. Subaru just skips the fripperies and focuses on what people really need: Generous space, go-anywhere capability, reliability, low cost, high resale, and safety. It’s not all that innovative or stylish, but a Subaru Outback tackles the everyday banalities of life as few other cars can. | |
2022 Toyota Sienna Reviews SummaryThe 2022 Toyota Sienna hybrid minivan rolls into the second model year following a redesign that made it all-new for 2021. Last year’s successful makeover with a standard hybrid powertrain returns unchanged. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 182 hp H4 | Engine2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity8 |
Horsepower182 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower |
EV Battery Capacity | EV Battery Capacity1.9 kWh |
MPG City26 | MPG City36 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway36 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 182 hp H4 | Engine Name2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Torque178 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Torque |
Horsepower182 hp @ 5800 rpm | Horsepower |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
EV Battery Capacity | EV Battery Capacity1.9 kWh |
MPG City26 | MPG City36 |
MPG Highway33 | MPG Highway36 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity8 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space32.5 cu ft | Cargo Space33.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight3634 lbs | Curb Weight4610 lbs |
Height66.1 in | Height68.5 in |
Length191.3 in | Length203.7 in |
Width82.0 in | Width78.5 in |
Wheelbase108.1 in | Wheelbase120.5 in |
Maximum Payload1071 lbs | Maximum Payload1560 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2700 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $26,795 | $35,285 |
Average price | $29,705 | $51,646 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.8 out of 10Read full review | 8.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | ||
Summary | The Outback, like any Subaru, is an old soul in a young person’s body. It embraces a rosier past of automotive history, back when cars were just cars and drivers were concerned only with driving. It’s conservative, unhip to fashion, and slow. Yet the 2021 Outback—a raised, all-wheel drive (AWD) station wagon like the first 1995 model—has all of today’s essentials and extra technology. Subaru just skips the fripperies and focuses on what people really need: Generous space, go-anywhere capability, reliability, low cost, high resale, and safety. It’s not all that innovative or stylish, but a Subaru Outback tackles the everyday banalities of life as few other cars can. | The 2022 Toyota Sienna hybrid minivan rolls into the second model year following a redesign that made it all-new for 2021. Last year’s successful makeover with a standard hybrid powertrain returns unchanged. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 182 hp H4 | 2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 8 |
Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5800 rpm | |
EV Battery Capacity | 1.9 kWh | |
MPG City | 26 | 36 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 36 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 182 hp H4 | 2.5L 245 hp I4 Hybrid |
Torque | 178 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | |
Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5800 rpm | |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
EV Battery Capacity | 1.9 kWh | |
MPG City | 26 | 36 |
MPG Highway | 33 | 36 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 8 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 32.5 cu ft | 33.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3634 lbs | 4610 lbs |
Height | 66.1 in | 68.5 in |
Length | 191.3 in | 203.7 in |
Width | 82.0 in | 78.5 in |
Wheelbase | 108.1 in | 120.5 in |
Maximum Payload | 1071 lbs | 1560 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2700 lbs | 3500 lbs |
The 2021 Subaru Outback retained its familiar and comfortable design, reminiscent of older models, yet offered a fresher interior compared to its smaller sibling, the Crosstrek. The Outback's interior, especially in trims above the base, featured a bright and sharp 11.6-inch portrait display, surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim. The quality of materials was evident, with substantial window switches and dash padding. The Outdoor XT trim showcased a unique combination of grey and black soft-touch upholstery with lime green stitching, adding a touch of flair. Externally, the Outback maintained its smooth and plain styling, with high grey cladding on its wheel arches and bumpers, and a few chrome accents. The 2021 model introduced adaptive LED headlights as standard and a new brown paint option, while still embodying the essence of a lifted wagon.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. Its assertive profile was complemented by a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered sliding doors that concealed the slider channel. The interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and comfortable seating across all rows. The second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a spacious third-row bench provided flexibility and comfort. The Sienna's interior was practical, with a focus on family-friendly features like abundant cup holders and storage spaces. The power-operated sliding doors and rear liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for busy families. Overall, the Sienna's design balanced practicality with a touch of style, making it a versatile choice for families.
The 2021 Subaru Outback's performance was a tale of two engines. The base 2.5-litre flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) further hampered its performance, making it slow and noisy. However, the turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine available in the XT trims transformed the Outback, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving its capability and refinement. Despite the turbo engine's slightly higher fuel consumption, it was a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking better performance. The Outback's handling was forgiving, with a focus on ride comfort and off-road capability, thanks to its high ground clearance and legendary all-wheel-drive system.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, offered a hybrid powertrain as standard, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. The Sienna's hybrid system provided excellent fuel efficiency, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving. The AWD option added an electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without mechanical complexity. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. The electronically controlled CVT contributed to smooth power delivery and efficiency, while selectable drive modes allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience. Overall, the Sienna's hybrid powertrain offered a compelling blend of performance and efficiency.
The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive interior space, with 2,144 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded and 920 litres with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, free of obstructions, making it practical for various loads. The Outback's seating provided ample headroom and legroom, with excellent outward visibility. Storage solutions were abundant, with large map pockets, bottle holders, and handy pockets in the front centre console. However, some features like push-button start and rear console climate vents were not standard on lower trims. The standout feature was the integrated roof rails and crossbars, offering convenience and cost savings for those needing a roof rack.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added 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 60/40-split third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and each row offered ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, enhanced convenience. The Sienna's interior was designed with families in mind, providing practicality and comfort for all passengers.
The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. Despite this, it offered modern features like adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional navigation system was more visually appealing, but the dual-screen setup on the base model was best avoided. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, provided adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking, though it relied solely on cameras, limiting its effectiveness in certain conditions.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna boasted a wealth of standard and available technology features. A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM was standard across all grades. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services and Bluetooth streaming. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's technology suite was comprehensive, catering to the needs of modern families.
The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a strong and stiff chassis, with standard driver and passenger airbags. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard from the Touring trim, while a driver-attention monitor was exclusive to the Premier trims. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and rollover test.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and a rear-seat reminder system were also standard. The Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. With 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors, the Sienna prioritized safety for families.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Subaru Outback is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Sienna scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Sienna is the recommended choice, offering superior technology, safety, and versatility for families.
Choose the 2021 Subaru Outback if:
- You value off-road capability and high ground clearance for adventurous trips.
- You appreciate the convenience of integrated roof rails and crossbars for additional cargo.
- You prefer a vehicle with a strong safety record and advanced driver-assist features.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Sienna if:
- You need a spacious and versatile interior for family and cargo.
- You prioritize fuel efficiency with a hybrid powertrain.
- You desire a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features for family convenience.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Subaru Outback is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Sienna scores 8.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Sienna is the recommended choice, offering superior technology, safety, and versatility for families.
Choose the 2021 Subaru Outback if:
Shop Now- You value off-road capability and high ground clearance for adventurous trips.
- You appreciate the convenience of integrated roof rails and crossbars for additional cargo.
- You prefer a vehicle with a strong safety record and advanced driver-assist features.
Choose the 2022 Toyota Sienna if:
Shop Now- You need a spacious and versatile interior for family and cargo.
- You prioritize fuel efficiency with a hybrid powertrain.
- You desire a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features for family convenience.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.