2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV with a spacious interior, fitting comfortably within Volkswagen's lineup between the subcompact and compact segments. It was available in Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with a single engine option and a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD) on the base model. The Taos was noted for its handsome styling, especially in the Highline 4Motion trim with its 19-inch machined-finish aluminum alloy wheels and Cornflower Blue paint. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic materials, which some found reminiscent of children's toys, though it did offer soft surfaces where needed and a stylish two-tone leather option in the Highline trim.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic with a design that resembled a Japanese bullet train. It offered a range of trims, including the new 25th Anniversary Special Edition, and was praised for its practicality and family-friendly features. The Sienna's interior was lauded for its high-quality materials, such as the brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents in the Platinum trim. It provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the ability to accommodate three car seats across the middle row in the eight-seater configuration. The Sienna's design and features made it a smart choice for families, despite the minivan's historically uncool reputation.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided adequate power, the turbocharger's delayed response and the dual-clutch transmission's erratic shifting could be frustrating for some drivers. The Taos offered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience with its responsive steering and effective brakes, but its ground clearance was limited compared to competitors like the Jeep Compass and Subaru Crosstrek. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our testing showing an average of 8.7 L/100 km.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motors, delivering a combined 245 horsepower. While the power output was less impressive than some competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering provided a surprisingly nimble and enjoyable driving experience. The Sienna's light steering made it easy to manoeuvre in urban settings, and it offered several drive modes, though the Normal mode was recommended for the best balance of performance and efficiency. The Sienna's hybrid system contributed to its excellent fuel economy, making it an attractive option for families seeking a practical and efficient vehicle.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos boasted a spacious interior, with deeply bolstered front seats offering ample adjustment options and heated and ventilated features in the Highline trim. The rear seat provided generous legroom and comfort, while cargo space varied depending on the drive system. The FWD model offered 790 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,866 litres with the seats folded, while the 4Motion model had slightly less space due to its independent rear suspension.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage solutions, with numerous cubbies, shelves, and bins throughout the cabin. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row and 2,129 litres with the third row folded, with a total cargo capacity of 2,860 litres. The Sienna's second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, with extending ottomans and the ability to slide forward and backward for added flexibility. The Sienna's interior was designed with family comfort and convenience in mind, making it a standout choice for those needing ample space and practicality.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims featuring an 8-inch display and more advanced software. While the Taos included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity and slow response times. The transition from Fender to BeatsAudio components was also seen as a downgrade in audio quality.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, while lacking the latest technology found in other Toyota models, offered a reliable infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system. The interface was considered outdated and required a wired connection for smartphone integration, but it benefited from physical buttons for easier operation. Despite its older design, the Sienna's technology was dependable and met the needs of most users.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos required additional spending to access popular safety features, with advanced systems like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist available only on the Highline trim with an extra-cost package. The Taos had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations at the time of review, but it offered a range of driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna impressed with its comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, making it a top choice for safety-conscious families. While it lacked some of the more gimmicky features found in competitors, the Sienna prioritized essential safety technologies to protect its occupants.