2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander presented a design that was subtly refined from its predecessor, with a few more degrees of slant in the tailgate glass and more pronounced creases on the body panels. The trapezoidal theme was evident in various elements, including the tailgate's license plate cutout, the rear bumper, and the slimmer headlights. The higher trims, Limited and Platinum, featured projector-beam LED headlights and attractive LED running lamps. The introduction of 20-inch alloy wheels on these trims added a touch of elegance. Despite these updates, the exterior was often seen as more functional than exciting. Inside, the Highlander excelled with its quality fit and finish. The cabin featured silver-painted accents and a multi-layered dash with an 8-inch touchscreen. The Limited trim boasted a three-tone interior with rich textures and padded surfaces, offering a level of detail that rivalled the Kia Telluride. The interior was inviting and well-crafted, even if the exterior styling didn't quite match its allure.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with its SUV-like styling. The wide grille and LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek, assertive look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added a sculpted touch. The Sienna's exterior was marked by Toyota's signature quality, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines and a higher seating position for a comfortable ride. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with controls conveniently placed. The centre console featured a bridge design, offering ample storage space. The second and third-row seats were comfortable for adults, with the second row offering sliding adjustments for maximum utility. The Sienna's interior was designed for practicality and comfort, making it a strong contender in the minivan segment.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This engine delivered 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, providing brisk acceleration without the need for turbochargers. The eight-speed automatic transmission made full use of the engine's power, though it required a heavy foot for kickdown. The Highlander's steering was loose, and the suspension was soft, leading to a ride that was more about comfort than precision. Despite its size and weight, the Highlander offered a smooth and isolating driving experience, especially on long road trips. The AWD system on higher trims included torque vectoring and selectable driving modes, enhancing its versatility. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with the FWD model rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 on the highway, while the AWD version had slightly different figures. The Highlander Hybrid, reviewed separately, offered even better fuel economy.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Sienna's AWD system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery, though it lacked the punch of a conventional automatic. The Sienna offered four selectable drive modes, with "Sport" mode adding a touch of liveliness. Handling was improved over the previous model, thanks to the new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension. The Sienna Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models had slightly higher figures. The Sienna's hybrid powertrain delivered a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offered seating for eight, or seven with the second-row captain's chairs on Platinum trims. The second-row seats were versatile, with generous adjustments and easy access to the third row. The Highlander's ergonomics were designed for comfort, with wide-opening rear doors and a convenient seating height. Cargo space was ample, with 453 litres behind the third row, 1,359 litres behind the second, and 2,378 litres with both rows folded. The Highlander featured eight cupholders, four bottle holders, and two shelves integrated into the dash for added convenience. The infotainment system was simple and responsive, though it could benefit from a software update.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily into the floor. The second row offered 63.5 centimetres of sliding adjustment, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna's cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, making it a family-friendly vehicle. Cargo handling was a strong suit, with the ability to carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood inside. Cargo space measured 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to its convenience.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system felt dated, with low-resolution screens and a lack of onboard apps. The 12.3-inch touchscreen on the Platinum trim was limited in its usability, with climate and efficiency information always present. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the system lagged behind competitors. The Highlander Platinum featured a 10-inch head-up display and a 7-inch instrument cluster display, providing useful information. The semi-automated driving system was effective, and adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams were standard. The JBL audio system on higher trims was decent, and the vehicle included a range of connectivity features.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a wealth of technology features, starting with a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Sienna included a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, along with Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming. Higher trims featured a Qi-compatible charging pad and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt AC outlet. The audio system ranged from a six-speaker setup on the base model to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The driver enjoyed a multi-information display, with a digital rearview mirror on select trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades on higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a 2020 Top Safety Pick from IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid also featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with additional systems like full-speed range dynamic radar adaptive cruise control and lane-tracing assist. The Sienna included 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A tire pressure monitoring system was standard, and the spare tire location was improved for safety. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.