2022 Acura MDX vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior that belied its spacious interior. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The vehicle's sportier and assertive design was complemented by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to its modern aesthetic. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, alongside high-quality plastics. The dashboard's layered design emphasized cabin width, while the unique gear selection and touchpad controls added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen strategically placed for safety and ease of use.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling elements. The Sienna's design featured a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered sliding doors that concealed the slider channel, giving it a sleek profile. The interior was designed with family needs in mind, offering ample storage and seating flexibility. The second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a spacious third-row bench provided comfort for passengers, while the third-row's 60/40-split bench easily folded into the floor for added cargo space. The Sienna's interior was practical and user-friendly, with numerous storage cubbies and cupholders throughout, making it an ideal choice for families on the go.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control by directing up to 100% of torque to either side during turns. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and a revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving both sporty handling and ride quality. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly enhanced, providing a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth gear shifts and five drive modes to suit different driving styles.

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. The Sienna offered both FWD and AWD options, with the latter featuring an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery and maximized fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, thanks to its TNGA platform and independent rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 L/100 km in city driving and AWD models slightly higher. The Sienna's hybrid system was complemented by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack, backed by a 10-year warranty.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating and cargo options, with comfortable front-row bucket seats and a second row featuring a removable centre section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's overall seating capacity was ideal for families. Cargo space ranged from 461 to 512 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,690 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like Hands-Free Access and customizable opening height, enhancing the MDX's practicality.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo capacity, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The sliding second row added flexibility for loading, with cargo measurements of 949 litres behind the third row and up to 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also boasted a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The third-row bench easily folded into the floor, and the power-operated sliding doors and liftgate offered hands-free access, making it a convenient choice for busy families.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with advanced technology features, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, offering customizable displays. Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were included, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The MDX also featured a head-up display and a surround-view camera on higher trims, enhancing its tech-savvy appeal.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna offered a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity was absent, the Sienna included telematics services like Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available, and the Sienna featured a digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System on select trims, providing a comprehensive tech package for families.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a focus on high-strength steel and advanced safety structures. The AcuraWatch suite included features like collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The MDX's front-end redesign prioritized pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in urban settings.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite offered adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system, ensuring comprehensive safety for families.