2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature design elements like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The gasoline models offered a retro touch with an optional white contrasting roof. The electric XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Despite these differences, the Recharge maintained a subtle appearance, appealing to those who preferred a low-profile electric vehicle. Inside, the XC40 boasted a minimalist design with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The interior design was cohesive, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending seamlessly, offering a premium feel uncommon in its segment.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan styling with a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a bold stance, while the redesigned sliding side doors added a sculpted look. The Sienna's exterior was marked by superb fit and finish, typical of Toyota's quality. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a higher seating position for a comfortable ride. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with controls conveniently placed. The centre console featured practical storage solutions, including cupholders and a large compartment. The second and third-row seats provided ample comfort and flexibility, with the second row offering sliding capabilities for optimal space configuration.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T4 model delivered 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the T5 variant offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for all-wheel drive, producing a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 75 kWh of usable capacity, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds. The T5 and T4 models achieved 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 and 8.5 seconds, respectively. All versions were electronically limited to 180 km/h. The XC40 Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, offering excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability. It also had a towing capacity of 900 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as 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 automatic transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. It offered four selectable drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. The Sienna's handling improved with new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, minimizing body roll and enhancing comfort. 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 Volvo XC40 Recharge offered no difference in passenger or cargo space compared to its gasoline counterparts, yet it was not particularly spacious. It had less legroom and headroom than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, and a smaller cargo area. The frunk was also limited in size due to powertrain components. However, Volvo compensated with clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the centre console and a bag hook in the glovebox door. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were relocated to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, with a single USB-C port standard, though second-row occupants lacked charging options.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, crucial for minivans. It featured a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored 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. The Sienna could accommodate a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, offering significant cargo flexibility. Nominal 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 family-friendly convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering top-notch graphics and menu layouts. The Recharge model introduced OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without dealership visits. It lacked a start button, relying on a key fob for operation. While the Polestar 2 was set to receive a Digital Key feature, Volvo had not confirmed it for the XC40.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a wealth of technology features, starting with a nine-inch touchscreen standard across all trims. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, with available SiriusXM and multiple USB ports. The Sienna included a year’s trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, plus Service Connect. Higher trims featured Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt AC outlet. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display. The driver enjoyed a multi-information display, with digital rearview mirror options on higher trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA for gasoline models. The electric Recharge model was expected to perform well in crash tests due to its safety cage and redesigned front crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. Optional features included a 360-degree camera and Volvo’s Pilot Assist system. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aids.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and pre-collision detection. 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 standard, 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, with four stars for front and rollover resistance.