2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic, traditionally not known for its style. With SUV-like styling, the Sienna featured a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays, giving it a modern and assertive stance. The redesigned sliding side doors, with a sculpted body line, added to its appeal, while various alloy wheel sizes enhanced its overall look. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed, providing ample storage and convenience features, while the second and third-row seats offered flexibility and comfort for passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained its elegant design with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned rear liftgate. The top Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5's interior remained unchanged, with the Signature trim offering luxurious Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, while the driving position was sportier. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout of the Mazda Connect infotainment system was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter using a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) prioritized fuel efficiency, achieving impressive ratings of 6.6 L/100 km in city driving for FWD models and 6.8 L/100 km for AWD models. The Sienna's handling was significantly improved, with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride, thanks to its new suspension system.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, with a revised six-speed automatic transmission for enhanced performance. All CX-5 models came standard with all-wheel drive, and the turbocharged engine option delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km for the base engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbocharged version. The new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered different drive modes, while the reworked suspension and increased structural rigidity provided a quieter and smoother ride, enhancing the CX-5's sporty driving dynamics.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored away. The second row offered 63.5 cm of sliding capability, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna boasted 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, while its cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. The hybrid's battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new furnishings that offered improved comfort and support. The driving position was sportier, and the front passenger seat was height-adjustable in all but the base trim. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout of the Mazda Connect infotainment system was challenging, but storage space was adequate, with wireless smartphone charging and door bins. Cargo space was competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs, offering 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered additional features like Qi-compatible charging, a 1500-watt inverter, and a Premium Audio + JBL package. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, and the driver benefited from a colour multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth, but lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console controls, which required acclimation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims featured a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio, providing a satisfactory audio experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. The Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring were standard, along with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 included the i-Activsense package, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.