2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, traditionally not known for its style. Toyota's designers infused the Sienna with SUV-like styling, featuring a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that integrated seamlessly with the Toyota logo. The side profile boasted an assertive stance, with re-engineered sliding doors that added a sculpted look, complemented by alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches. The rear design maintained a wide and low appearance, with Toyota's renowned fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and cupholders, while the second and third-row seats provided comfort and flexibility for passengers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, opting for smooth, sleek lines that gave it a sophisticated appearance. The base model featured LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear roof spoiler, while higher trims added leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and auto-dimming mirrors. The Kuro Edition stood out with its Polymetal Gray paint, red leather seats, and 19-inch black metallic wheels. The top-tier Signature model offered premium features like Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands. The interior materials were of high quality, and the fit and finish were well-executed, providing a premium feel.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined 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 utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and it boasted impressive fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 on the highway.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version producing 250 horsepower. The turbo engine, available on higher trims, provided robust performance with 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive was standard on turbo models. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the non-turbo FWD model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbo engine delivered spirited performance, especially in Sport mode, but the stiff suspension could be a drawback for some drivers.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row seat that easily folded into the floor. The second row offered 63.5 cm of sliding range, enhancing legroom and accessibility. The cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all doors. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. It offered 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable seating position typical of its class, but rear legroom was limited. It featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. The centre console housed a larger shifter, which took up passenger space, and the infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. The CX-5's cargo space was below average, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. A power liftgate was available.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a nine-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It included a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, along with Bluetooth and USB ports throughout the cabin. Higher trims featured a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver enjoyed a multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on select models.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not user-friendly. It lacked knobs for tuning the stereo, and the screen's positioning made it difficult to reach. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing for easier control via smartphones.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, along with a tire pressure monitoring system. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.