2020 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, a third-generation model introduced in 2011 and updated in 2018, felt somewhat dated despite its occasional upscale touches. The hollow "thud" of the front doors and the outdated instrument panel, reminiscent of Toyota's 2010 parts bin, highlighted its age. However, the simplicity of the controls made them user-friendly. The Sienna offered various trims, from the well-equipped base L to the luxurious Limited Premium, each adding features like power sliding doors, leather upholstery, and advanced infotainment systems. The Nightshade Edition added a touch of style with dark accents and wheels.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander stood out with its bold design, featuring wide headlights, a long hood, and an assertive grille. The character line along the side and Lexus-like taillights added to its distinctive look. The new XSE trim level introduced a sportier appearance with a restyled front end and 20-inch wheels. The Limited trim, just below the Platinum, exuded luxury with chrome accents and a refined interior. The Highlander's interior boasted near-flawless fit and finish, with tan leather seats and wood details, making it a comfortable and upscale choice for families.

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's handling was surprisingly decent for a minivan, thanks to its low center of gravity and broad base. However, its twitchy steering response at higher speeds required constant attention. The Sienna offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, with the latter available only in a 7-passenger configuration. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions returned 18/24/20.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered smooth and predictable operation, making it a reliable choice for family transportation. The Highlander measured up well against competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride in terms of power. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, higher-rated springs, retuned shock absorbers, and a rear stabilizer bar, enhancing driving excitement. However, the Highlander still exhibited some lumbering behavior through corners due to its soft and comfortable suspension.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, surpassing competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which could be cumbersome. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat was challenging. Toyota's Auto Access Seat provided mobility access features, making it an affordable and convenient option for those needing such capabilities.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander prioritized driver and passenger comfort with ample legroom in the second row and adjustable seats. However, the third row was best suited for short trips or accommodating children. Cargo space behind the third row was limited to 16 cubic feet, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The Highlander featured convenient storage solutions, including shelves ahead of the front seats and a wireless charging pad in higher trims.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Standard tech features included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot. 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 straining their voice.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen available on the Limited and standard on the Platinum trim. Both systems were user-friendly, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard across the lineup. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and crisp, though it only displayed certain apps in full width. The JBL audio system provided good sound quality, and the inclusion of volume and tuning knobs added to the user experience.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P), 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 ones. The Sienna earned five stars from the NHTSA and top ratings from the IIHS, including a Superior rating for its driver-assistance features.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+), which included advanced features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support. Other standard features included road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-tracing assist, and automatic high beams. The Highlander received five stars from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.