2020 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Ford Explorer was a striking vehicle, boasting a more refined and athletic design compared to its predecessors. Its widened headlights, large grille, and distinctive "Explorer" lettering on the hood gave it a recognizable and bold appearance. The ST version, with its black 21-inch rims and quad exhaust pipes, was particularly eye-catching. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal. Despite its high price tag, the materials used inside felt subpar, with low-grade vinyl and hard plastics dominating the cabin. The Explorer's interior lacked the luxury feel expected at its price point, making it less appealing compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with its SUV-like styling. The wide grille and sleek LED headlamps contributed to its assertive stance, while the redesigned sliding doors added a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width and comfort, with a simple and uncluttered dashboard. The seating position was elevated, providing a pleasant ride, and the materials used throughout the cabin had a quality feel. The second and third-row seats offered ample comfort and flexibility, making the Sienna a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered a range of powerful engines, with the ST trim featuring a 3.0-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered smooth and addictive power. The rear-wheel-drive chassis provided excellent weight distribution, enhancing the vehicle's nimbleness and cornering capabilities. The Explorer also offered a 2.3-litre turbo inline four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a hybrid option with a net 318 horsepower. However, the hybrid's fuel efficiency did not justify its higher cost. The Explorer's towing capacity varied from 2,268 to 2,540 kilograms, depending on the engine.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, produced 243 horsepower. It featured an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, providing a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. The Sienna's fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 6.7. The Sienna could tow up to 1,587 kilograms, and its hybrid powertrain was a significant advancement for minivans.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered generous interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The second row featured air vents, USB ports, and a panoramic moonroof, enhancing comfort. The third row accommodated six-foot-tall adults for short trips, although the bench was not ideal for long journeys. Cargo space was slightly reduced behind the third row, measuring 509 litres, but expanded to 1,359 litres behind the second row and 2,491 litres with all seats folded. The Explorer's physical controls were user-friendly, but thick D-pillars and fuzzy cameras created blind spots.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily. The second row slid up to 63.5 centimetres, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage space. The Sienna could carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood, with cargo measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Sync 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. The Premium Technology Package added a 10-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. However, the system lacked innovation, with limited customization options and an unfinished feel. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ system was not as effective as competitors' systems, requiring software updates for improvement.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a nine-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims included a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna featured a digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry, with Smart Key System on higher trims. The technology package included Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter, enhancing convenience for families.

The 2020 Ford Explorer was equipped with Ford Co-Pilot 360, which included forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. It received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also included the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.