2020 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since the 2011 model year. Despite a 2018 update that introduced newer infotainment tech and minor changes, the 2020 Sienna still felt dated. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when slammed, indicating a lack of attention to fit and finish. The instrument panel also appeared outdated, reminiscent of Toyota's 2010 parts bin, though its simplicity made the controls easy to use. The Sienna offered various trims, from the base L to the Limited Premium, each adding more features and luxury touches. The SE trim, recommended by CarGurus, included 19-inch alloy wheels, a mesh grille, and a power rear liftgate, which was deemed essential for families.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy trim distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It also featured unique 20-inch wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. The Calligraphy trim made the Palisade look more expensive than it was, drawing attention for its unconventional styling. Inside, the Palisade's cabin, especially in the Calligraphy trim, was luxurious, with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather and a suede headliner. The Beige over Navy Blue color scheme with light, striated simulated wood trim added to its upscale feel.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Sienna offered a Sport mode for livelier throttle and shift response, and a manual mode for better control when towing up to 3,500 pounds. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, but all trims except the base L had an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, albeit only in a 7-passenger configuration. The FWD Sienna returned 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions achieved 18/24/20 mpg. The Sienna's low center of gravity and broad base contributed to decent handling dynamics, though its twitchy steering response at higher speeds required constant attention.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and FWD, with an optional AWD system. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved low-speed traction. The Palisade AWD returned an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in combined driving, and our test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg. The Palisade's firmer suspension tuning provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. It was undemanding to drive in typical scenarios, with plenty of power and easy maneuverability in urban and suburban environments. The Palisade's 5,000-pound towing capacity was supported by a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, more than competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which was easier with captain’s chairs than with a bench seat. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat could be challenging. Toyota also offered mobility access features, such as the Auto Access Seat, making the Sienna a practical choice for those needing mobility conversions.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade provided a spacious and accessible interior, especially in the Calligraphy trim. The driver and front passenger enjoyed eight-way power-adjustable seats, with the driver also getting an adjustable thigh support cushion and a heated steering wheel. The front seats and second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, and third-row passengers had separate climate controls and rear side-window sunshades. The Palisade offered 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with the second row folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Other standard tech features included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. Higher trims, like the Limited, added navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Driver Easy Speak intercom system allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers without raising their voice.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen requiring a wired connection for smartphone mirroring. The Calligraphy trim included SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, Blue Link connected services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. Other tech features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, Quiet Mode, and a head-up display (HUD). The surround-view camera system aided in parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) suite, including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims and standard on XLE and Limited trims. The Sienna earned five stars in NHTSA crash testing and top scores from the IIHS, including a Superior rating for its driver-assistance features.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems as standard. Higher trims included active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, Safe Exit Assist, and a Blind View Monitor. The Highway Drive Assist system provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, and its Blue Link services included automatic collision warning and emergency assistance.