2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to premium quality, offering captivating style and substance. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, improved cabin aesthetics, and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction assistance feature. With prices ranging from $27,950 to $41,900, the CX-5 offered various trims, including the luxurious Signature trim, which featured premium Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appeal, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather diminished its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's interior emphasized width and comfort, with a simple dashboard and a smart centre console design. The second and third-row seats provided ample comfort and flexibility, making it a practical choice for families. The Sienna's fit and finish were of superb Toyota quality, ensuring a durable and stylish minivan experience.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged version in the GT Turbo and Signature trims delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 1,734-kilogram curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated with authority, though its fuel efficiency was slightly lower than the naturally aspirated engine. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions and a high centre of gravity affected its handling.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It used an electronically controlled CVT, which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The Sienna's handling improved with new suspension systems, minimizing body roll and ensuring a comfortable ride. Its fuel efficiency was impressive, with FWD models rated at 6.5 L/100 km combined and AWD models at 6.7 L/100 km combined, making it an economical choice for families.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and upscale, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. It offered heated front seats as standard, with higher trims adding features like ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. The cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded. Despite its upscale cabin, the CX-5's practicality was limited by its smaller size.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row bench that folded into the floor. The second row's 63.5-centimetre sliding capability provided flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,860 litres with the seats folded. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims added features like a Bose premium sound system and a surround-view camera. However, the system's interface was not user-friendly, requiring acclimation and setup to reduce frustration.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna boasted a nine-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It offered a range of audio and multimedia options, from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package. The rear-seat entertainment system included a wide-screen display and wireless headphones. The Sienna's driver-focused tech features included a digital rearview mirror and a multi-information display, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a standard ADAS package that included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety credentials.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and pre-collision detection. It also included the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for families.