2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 INFINITI QX80

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was the flagship SUV in Infiniti’s lineup, offering a substantial size compared to its smaller siblings, the QX50 and QX60. Available in two trims, Luxe and Limited, the QX80 boasted a refreshed exterior since 2018, featuring modern elements like LED lighting, adaptive front lighting, and a commanding presence. The interior was upscale, with soft-touch materials and a revised infotainment system, though some trim pieces lagged behind competitors. The cabin offered three interior color schemes and a choice of nine paint jobs, with the Limited model featuring premium materials like matte silver and Ash wood trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic with a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The interior emphasized width and comfort, with a higher seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The Sienna offered flexible seating arrangements, with a second row that slid up to 25 inches for easy access to the third row. The cabin was designed for practicality, featuring numerous storage options and cupholders, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Despite its power, the QX80 struggled with fuel efficiency, achieving only 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the RWD model. The SUV offered a choice between rear- and four-wheel drive, with the latter standard on the Limited trim. It featured various drive modes and steering systems, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, the QX80's handling at higher speeds required constant attention, and its fuel economy was among the lowest in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It featured an electronically controlled CVT, which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The Sienna excelled in fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg across the board. Its handling was improved with a new suspension system, offering a comfortable ride with minimal body roll. The Sienna's AWD system, powered by a separate electric motor, provided additional traction without mechanical complexity, making it a practical choice for families seeking efficiency and versatility.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered plush seating in the first two rows, with a tighter third row best suited for children. It featured leather-appointed seats with available semi-aniline leather upholstery and Alcantara options. The SUV provided ample cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. A power liftgate was standard, enhancing convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and cargo handling, with a third-row bench that easily stored away and a second row that slid significantly for flexible access. It offered 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 101.0 cubic feet with the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a tailgate with kick-motion activation added to its family-friendly features, making it a versatile option for transporting both passengers and cargo.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 featured a dual-screen infotainment system with an 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower touch screen, supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. Standard features included a 13-speaker Bose stereo, with an optional 17-speaker system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. While functional, the infotainment system's design was not particularly modern, though it was responsive enough for everyday use.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. It included a range of connectivity features, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect trials, and an optional 1500-watt inverter for powering devices. The audio system varied by trim, with a Premium Audio + JBL package available on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was also available, enhancing the Sienna's appeal for families on the go.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 came with a solid array of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. While the QX80 received "good" scores in some IIHS crash tests, it had a moderate risk of rollover according to NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features like dynamic radar cruise control and lane-tracing assist. It included 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system, with LATCH connectors for child seats. While crash-test ratings for the 2021 model were pending, the 2020 Sienna had received favorable ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA, indicating a strong safety performance.