2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's blend of ruggedness and refinement, positioning itself as a premium-grade vehicle. It was available in various trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the AT4 being a new addition designed for off-road adventures. The Denali trim, however, was the most popular, offering a luxurious experience without the need for a high-end badge. The Yukon Denali boasted a unique dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and a panoramic sunroof, creating an upscale cabin environment. Its exterior, with a bold grille and 22-inch wheels, added to its premium appeal, making it stand out from its Chevrolet counterparts.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's image with SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and LED headlamps gave it a sleek look, while the redesigned sliding doors added a touch of assertiveness. The Sienna's interior focused on width and comfort, with a higher seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was designed for practicality, offering ample storage and convenience features. The second and third-row seats provided flexibility and comfort, making the Sienna a practical choice for families. Overall, the Sienna combined style and functionality, challenging the traditional minivan stereotype.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 sound. However, its fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon also featured an independent rear suspension and optional Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable of impressive grip and accurate steering, thanks to its oversized wheels and tires. The Active Response 4WD system further improved cornering performance and traction, making the Yukon a capable vehicle for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid, on the other hand, was Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Sienna used an electronically controlled CVT, which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. Its handling was improved with a new suspension system, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The Sienna's fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway. The AWD models were slightly less efficient but still impressive for a minivan. Overall, the Sienna Hybrid offered a balance of performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The front seats, while luxurious, lacked a massage function and could become uncomfortable on long drives. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse for added comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered improved comfort, with adequate thigh support for adults. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres of space available, rivaling that of a minivan.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row seat that easily stored away. The second row could slide up to 63.5 centimetres, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna's cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. Its cargo capacity was notable, capable of carrying a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. 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 family-friendly features, making the Sienna a versatile and practical choice.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali offered a comprehensive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Ultimate Package added features like wireless device charging, a navigation system, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some setup for streaming content. The Yukon also featured a 15-inch head-up display, a rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles, enhancing its technological appeal.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also included a digital rearview mirror and a Smart Key System on higher trims. Its technology package was comprehensive, offering connectivity and entertainment options for all passengers, making it a tech-savvy choice for families.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came with a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Yukon's safety systems operated smoothly, providing a reassuring driving experience. However, crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with 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. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA, making it a safe choice for families.