2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was a bold attempt by Toyota to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal. It featured SUV-like styling with a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that integrated seamlessly with the Toyota logo. The side profile was assertive, thanks to the re-engineered sliding doors with a sculpted design that bulged over the rear wheels. The alloy wheels, available in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, added to its dynamic look. The rear design maintained a wide and low appearance, complemented by Toyota's renowned fit and finish quality. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position that was higher than a sedan's but not quite as commanding as a full-size SUV. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with controls conveniently placed below the infotainment screen. The centre console featured a smart bridge design, providing ample storage space, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel and quality materials enhanced the interior's tactile appeal. The second and third-row seats were designed for adult comfort, with the second row offering flexible configurations for maximum utility.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a muscular and imposing presence. The squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille, flanked by narrow LED headlamps and functional air vents. These elements contributed to a lower coefficient of drag despite the Rogue's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was streamlined, with options for two-tone configurations on the Platinum grade. Inside, the Rogue offered cloth seating surfaces, with leatherette and semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather available on higher trims. The SV AWD model with the Premium Package included heated rear seats and a power liftgate. The Platinum model elevated the interior with luxurious materials, aiming to win over skeptics. The Rogue's redesign also improved second-row access with doors that opened to 85 degrees and enhanced headroom. Standard features included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available for higher trims. The cargo space was generous, with a redesigned Divide and Hide system offering flexible storage solutions.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first foray into hybrid minivans, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an all-wheel-drive option available across all trims. The AWD system utilized a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The Sienna employed an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. Four selectable drive modes allowed for some customization of the driving experience. The Sienna's handling was significantly improved with new suspension systems, offering minimal body roll and 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 were slightly less efficient.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured a new 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. This engine was well-matched to the Rogue's weight, providing adequate performance across the lineup. The CVT was less intrusive than in previous models, though no alternate powertrains were available. Nissan focused on fully battery-powered releases, leaving the Rogue without a hybrid option. Fuel efficiency was respectable, with FWD models rated at 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.0 on the highway, while AWD models saw slightly higher consumption. The Rogue's handling was improved with better torsional rigidity, reduced weight, and updated suspension systems, offering a stable and planted road feel.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that folded into the floor. The second row slid up to 63.5 centimetres, providing flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The cabin boasted 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, catering to family needs. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo measurements were 949 litres 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. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate with kick-motion activation added to the family-friendly features.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all trims, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system that created additional storage space. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was enhanced. Standard features included heated front seats, a steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available for higher trims. The Platinum grade featured a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of space with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The system allowed for a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and included a panel for separating cargo. The rear seat split was adjusted to 60/40, providing flexibility for various cargo needs.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard across all trims, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Connectivity features included a year's trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, with Bluetooth and audio streaming standard. Higher trims offered Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display with wireless headphones. The driver benefited from a multi-information display, digital rearview mirror, and remote keyless entry, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports, along with access to NissanConnect services. The Platinum grade upgraded the screen to 9 inches, introduced wireless phone charging, and offered wireless Apple CarPlay. A 10.8-inch head-up display and a Bose 10-speaker audio system were notable additions, though the digital instrument cluster's graphics were criticized for poor readability. The Rogue's technology package aimed to enhance the driving experience with practical and user-friendly features.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. The Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring were standard, along with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors. A tire pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were included, 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, though it scored four stars for frontal and rollover resistance.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, including emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, enhancing highway driving with adaptive cruise control and steering assistance. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, with the best possible scores in every category. NHTSA awarded the Rogue a four-star safety rating overall, with variations in frontal crash testing scores between early and late-release versions.