2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Volvo XC60

The 2021 Volvo XC60, a product of the Swedish brand's rebirth under Geely Holding Group, showcased a blend of elegance and innovation. Built on Volvo's SPA platform, the XC60 sat comfortably between the XC40 and XC90 in the lineup. Its design featured a tailored two-box crossover style with short overhangs and athletic body sides, highlighted by the iconic Thor's hammer LED headlights. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a nod to Volvo's early adoption of such technology, and the attention to detail in elements like the HVAC vents elevated the XC60 to near-luxury status.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with its SUV-like styling. The wide grille and LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's interior emphasized width and comfort, with a higher seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The centre console was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and cupholders, and the second and third-row seats offered flexibility and comfort. The Sienna's design catered to family needs, with features like a bridge-style console and a spacious cabin that didn't compromise on style.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 model increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft with the addition of a supercharger. The T8 models, including the Polestar Engineered variant, combined a turbocharged and supercharged engine with an electric motor, delivering up to 415 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The XC60's plug-in hybrid capability allowed for up to 31 kilometres of electric-only driving. Fuel consumption ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 4.0 Le/100 km in electric mode, with premium gasoline recommended.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for a combined 243 horsepower. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Sienna used a CVT for smooth power delivery, though it lacked the punch of a conventional transmission. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and it offered selectable drive modes for varied driving experiences. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, with FWD models rated at 6.5 L/100 km combined and AWD models at 6.7 L/100 km.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was designed for comfort and style, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system adept at handling winter conditions. The cabin featured smart storage solutions and intuitive controls, with 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres with the seats folded. The XC60 could tow up to 1,587 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience, with a standard third-row bench and a second row that slid up to 63.5 cm for easy access. The cabin boasted 16 cupholders and ample storage, with cargo space ranging from 949 litres behind the third row to 2,860 litres with the seats folded. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned to maximize space, and it could tow up to 1,587 kilograms. Power-operated sliding doors and liftgate added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, with a tablet-style interface that divided the screen into function quadrants. It offered smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and an exceptional Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The system required a learning curve but was intuitive once mastered.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with a nine-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and a digital rearview mirror on select trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was a testament to Volvo's safety heritage, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping aid, and Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving. Volvo's commitment to safety was further highlighted by the XC60's speed restriction for enhanced safety.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with a focus on child safety through LATCH connectors and a tire pressure monitoring system.