2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design evolution influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, it retained a familiar aesthetic, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. Pricing started at just over $90,000 Canadian for the base Luxury trim, with higher trims like Premium Luxury and Sport priced at $99,898, and the top-tier Platinum trims at $118,398. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, came equipped with a 36-speaker AKG sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and a host of luxury features, culminating in a sticker price of $119,988 Canadian. The interior boasted high-quality materials, though some plastic elements were less forgivable at this price point.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with SUV-like styling cues. It featured a wide grille and sleek LED headlamps, giving it an assertive stance. The redesigned sliding side doors and various alloy wheel options added to its appeal. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width and comfort, with a higher seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console offered smart storage solutions, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel added a touch of luxury. The second and third-row seats provided ample comfort and flexibility, with the second row sliding to optimize space. Overall, the Sienna managed to blend practicality with a touch of style.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was favoured for its performance and sound, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It featured technologies like Dynamic Fuel Management and an automatic stop/start system to enhance fuel efficiency, achieving 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The turbo-diesel, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, promised better fuel economy at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled experience. Despite its size, the Escalade was remarkably manoeuvrable, though the brake pedal could have offered better modulation.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It came with a standard front-wheel drive and an optional all-wheel drive, achieved through a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna used an electronically controlled CVT, which, while efficient, dulled throttle response. It offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling improved with a new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, minimizing body roll. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to a new independent rear suspension that lowered the floor and increased interior volume. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging options available. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and offered improved leg support, while the third-row seat provided ample space for adults. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more space, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo volume.

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 slid up to 63.5 centimetres, enhancing access to the third row and providing flexible legroom. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies. Cargo capacity was generous, with 949 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,860 litres with all seats folded. The Sienna could accommodate a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a cutting-edge 38-inch curved OLED display, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some user experience improvements were needed. The AR navigation system was a standout feature, overlaying directional arrows on the camera view. A 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system. The Escalade also offered a full-colour head-up display and a range of connectivity options.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available SiriusXM. It offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Higher trims featured a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The driver enjoyed a colour multi-information display, with a digital rearview mirror available on higher trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System on XLE and above.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade prioritized safety with its size and a suite of features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also offered Teen Driver technology, parking assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. An optional Driver Assist Tech Package enhanced safety with adaptive cruise control and higher-speed emergency braking. The Escalade's advanced systems worked smoothly, though there were occasional false alarms.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid 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 was equipped with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A tire pressure monitoring system was standard, with a spare tire available on the LE grade. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.