2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, traditionally not known for its fashion-forward design. 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 showcased an assertive stance, with re-engineered sliding doors that boasted a sculpted redesign, enhancing the vehicle's overall look. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches added to its visual appeal, while the rear maintained a wide and low appearance. 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 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a new era of SUV design, drawing inspiration from its predecessors while incorporating modern elements. The front featured a reimagined V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. The C-pillar design paid homage to the original Pathfinder, while the vehicle's side panels and hood presented a robust, on-trend look. The Pathfinder's design changes aimed to position it as a more capable and rugged vehicle, with a wider track and increased height. The interior offered a blend of practicality and upscale aesthetics, with flexible seating configurations and thoughtful innovations like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology. The Pathfinder's interior space was designed to accommodate families, with ample legroom, storage options, and comfort features across all trim levels.

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, delivering a combined 243 horsepower. The Sienna offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter utilizing a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery, though it lacked the punch of a conventional transmission. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, offering a comfortable and stable ride. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway, while AWD models were slightly less efficient.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The new 9-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, offering smooth gear transitions and improved driving dynamics. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and multiple drive modes, enhanced the Pathfinder's versatility. While fuel consumption figures were not available, the Pathfinder's towing capacity of 6,000 pounds was a standout feature. The suspension provided a stable ride, and the steering was responsive, making it easy to maneuver in various driving conditions.

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 offered 63.5 centimetres of sliding capability, enhancing access to the third row. The cabin featured ample storage, with 16 cupholders and flexible cargo configurations. The Sienna could accommodate a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood, with cargo space ranging from 949 litres behind the third row to 2,860 litres with the first row folded. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added to the Sienna's family-friendly features.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with improved sound insulation and thoughtful design elements. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology facilitated easy access to the third row, while the removable second-row centre console added versatility. The Pathfinder offered 470 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,421 litres with all seats folded. The interior accommodated up to five car seats, with best-in-class front-seat legroom and additional hip room for third-row passengers. Heated and ventilated seats, tri-zone climate control, and ample storage options enhanced passenger comfort.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM compatibility. Connectivity features included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect, with Bluetooth and USB ports throughout the cabin. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a digital rearview mirror. The Sienna's technology package catered to both driver and passenger needs, with remote keyless entry and push-button start.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. Standard features included a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The Pathfinder's technology suite was designed to be user-friendly, with a digital driver-information display and optional head-up display for enhanced driving convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and pre-collision systems. The Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring were standard, along with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors. The Sienna received top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on higher trims. The Pathfinder offered 10 airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim. While crash-test ratings were not available, the Pathfinder's safety features provided comprehensive protection.