2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was marked by Toyota's renowned quality, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. 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.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior changes, aligning with Nissan's new design language. Its bold front featured a double V-motion grille, while thinner, longer headlights extended down the face. The Kicks SR and SR Premium trims boasted LED headlights and fog lights, enhancing its sporty appearance. The rear design, reminiscent of the Nissan Leaf, emphasized proportion, though some elements appeared less premium. The Kicks offered a variety of paint options, including two-tone combinations, enhancing its upmarket look. Inside, the Kicks maintained a familiar layout with improved materials, offering a comfortable and stylish cabin experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter utilizing a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna employed an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, providing a comfortable ride. 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, while AWD models achieved 6.8 city and 6.6 highway.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came with a single powertrain option: a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Paired with Nissan's Xtronic CVT and front-wheel drive, the Kicks offered nimble handling, aided by electric power-assisted steering and a front independent strut suspension. While not particularly powerful, the Kicks provided adequate performance for its size. It excelled in fuel efficiency, with ratings of 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.6 on the highway. The Kicks also featured standard traction and stability control systems, enhancing its 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 centimetres of sliding capability, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna boasted 16 cupholders and ample storage throughout the cabin. It could accommodate a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, showcasing its cargo versatility. The hybrid 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 2021 Nissan Kicks made efficient use of its compact size, offering easy-to-reach controls and good small-item storage. It featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable front seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks provided best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was somewhat limited. The rear seats comfortably accommodated adults, a rarity in the subcompact class. The available tonneau cover offered hidden storage in the rear cargo area, enhancing its practicality.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. It offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect trials. Higher trims featured a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on select models. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a competitive array of technology features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. The Kicks SR Premium boasted a class-exclusive Bose Personal Plus sound system with eight speakers, providing an immersive audio experience. A surround-view monitor was also available, aiding in parking and manoeuvring. The Kicks SV added features like Nissan Intelligent Key and automatic climate control, enhancing its tech offerings.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came standard 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. It received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA, though it scored four stars for front and rollover resistance.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning. It included 10 airbags and LATCH connections for child seats. The Kicks SV and SR added adaptive cruise control and a driver alertness monitor. While the 2021 model hadn't been crash-tested by the IIHS, the 2020 model received Good ratings in crashworthiness. The NHTSA awarded the Kicks a four-star overall rating.