2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, part of its third generation, had been around since the 2011 model year. Despite a 2018 update that incorporated newer infotainment tech and minor changes, the 2020 version still felt dated. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when slammed, indicating a lack of attention to fit and finish. The instrument panel looked like it came from Toyota's 2010 parts bin, though its simplicity made the controls easy to use. The Sienna was available in multiple trims, from the base L to the Limited Premium, each offering various features like 17-inch alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a new seven-passenger model, distinct from the existing five-passenger Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming redesigned 2022 Grand Cherokee, featuring a third-row seat and more cargo volume. The Grand Cherokee L's styling was a strong selling point, resembling a smaller version of the more expensive Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models. It was available in multiple trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235. The Summit trim, which we tested, featured quilted and perforated leather, real wood trim, and a 19-speaker McIntosh premium audio system.

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. It offered stout acceleration in normal Drive mode, with a Sport mode for livelier throttle and shift response. The Sienna had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and was available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) on all trims except the base L. The FWD Sienna returned 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions returned 18/24/20. The Sienna handled surprisingly well for a minivan, with a low center of gravity and broad base, though its twitchy steering response at higher speeds was a concern.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine making 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD) or one of three 4WD systems. The V6 had a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with 4WD on higher trims, produced 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds but a lower EPA rating of 17 mpg combined. The Grand Cherokee L offered various driving modes, including Sport, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock, with the Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. The Jeep handled well on both daily drives and off-road terrain, with a smooth ride and capable handling.

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 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 families needing these capabilities.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provided comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs offered plenty of legroom and comfort, with manual side window sunshades. The third row was comfortable for all but the tallest adults, with large side windows for a great view. However, the Grand Cherokee L lacked practical storage space for front-seat occupants. Cargo space behind the third row measured 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the third row folded and 84.6 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Other standard tech included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. Higher trims offered additional features like navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Limited trim also included Driver Easy Speak, an intercom system that broadcasted the driver’s voice to the rear speakers.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L employed the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, available with 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services, including a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The test vehicle featured a 19-speaker McIntosh high-end audio system, a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, a thermal-imaging night vision system, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system. The head-up display remained visible to drivers wearing polarized sunglasses.

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 higher trims. The Sienna earned five stars in NHTSA crash testing and top scores from the IIHS, including a Superior rating for its standard driver-assistance features.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-centering assistance. The system worked well but felt artificial in the driver’s hands. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats at intersections and could apply the brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L also offered Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. As of the review, crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the new model was expected to improve upon the old Grand Cherokee’s ratings.