2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, moving away from the sharp angles and straight lines of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, the ID.4 aimed to appeal to North American crossover buyers, though it didn't quite resemble a traditional SUV. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-forward aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. Standard features included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. It featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels, giving it a more assertive stance. The Sienna's interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering ample storage and seating flexibility. It provided a spacious cabin with clever storage solutions, including an under-console area and numerous cup holders. The second and third rows offered comfortable seating, with available captain's chairs and a standard 60/40-split third-row bench that easily folded into the floor. The Sienna's design prioritized family convenience, with power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, making it easy to access the vehicle even with hands full.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. It lacked aggressive regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience with friction brakes. The ID.4's performance was characterized by its comfortable ride and sufficient power for everyday driving.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available on most trims. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. It offered four selectable drive modes and handled well for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform. The Sienna's hybrid system delivered impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving. The hybrid battery was tucked under the front seats, and Toyota provided a 10-year/240,000-kilometre warranty for added peace of mind.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than many competitor EVs, though its legroom was average for the segment. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. While it lacked a "frunk," the ID.4's interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was compromised by thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats, enhancing comfort in colder climates.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior space and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading. Cargo measurements included 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. The interior featured power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, with ample storage and cupholders throughout. The third-row bench easily folded into the floor, and the Sienna's design prioritized family convenience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the haptic touchpads for controls were challenging to use. The ID.4 featured a natural-language voice-control system and the innovative ID.Light, which communicated information to the driver. While some features felt gimmicky, the infotainment system was well-positioned and user-friendly.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna offered a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it included a range of telematics services and Bluetooth streaming. Higher trims featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system and an available rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also offered a digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry, enhancing convenience for families.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The ID.4 introduced Travel Assist and Emergency Assist, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna included 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, prioritizing family safety.