2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's aesthetic appeal, 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, thanks to the re-engineered sliding side doors with a sculpted redesign. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches added to its visual appeal, while the rear maintained a wide and low look. 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 the second and third-row seats provided comfort and flexibility for passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport presented a bold, sporty, and upscale appearance, particularly in the Execline trim with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels. The removal of the third row and a lowered roofline gave it a coupe-like silhouette, while the interior remained spacious for five adults. The Atlas Cross Sport's interior featured a mix of appealing colour combinations, though the use of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression. Despite this, the vehicle offered a range of comfort features, including heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone climate control system. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still provided ample space for luggage and other items.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first foray into hybrid minivans, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 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 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, and it boasted impressive fuel efficiency ratings, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 276 horsepower. The V6, paired with VW's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, provided better towing capacity and a more satisfying driving experience. However, the V6's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 12.3 L/100 km during testing. The Atlas Cross Sport's suspension and steering exhibited German engineering traits, but the ride quality varied, feeling too firm at low speeds and too soft at higher speeds. Despite these issues, the Atlas Cross Sport excelled on highways, where the V6 engine performed efficiently.

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 significant sliding capability, enhancing legroom and accessibility. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. It provided 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. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger Atlas, offering generous space for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, leading to potential rattling. The cargo area, while reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still provided ample space for luggage. The Atlas Cross Sport's shorter length and lower roofline affected cargo capacity, but it remained practical for everyday use.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered advanced audio systems, including a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna also included a digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry, with higher trims offering additional tech features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, an 8-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system included Bluetooth pairing for two devices and wireless charging. However, user experience issues with the touchscreen and voice recognition were noted. The Execline trim featured a 12-speaker Fender audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also had the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive LED headlights and a 360-degree camera system. While the Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, it did not earn the highest accolades from safety organizations.