2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was offered in a variety of trims, including S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium, with optional Technology and R-Line packages. Its styling was a major selling point, featuring a shorter length and lower height compared to the larger Atlas, giving it an SUV coupe look. The SEL Premium trim with the R-Line package looked particularly striking with its 21-inch wheels and Pure Gray paint, giving it a custom appearance. Inside, the Burgundy and Titan Black two-tone color scheme was eye-catching, though closer inspection revealed some hard plastics. However, the design and materials in high-contact areas were well-executed, and the ambient lighting added a nice touch.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel options added to its assertive stance. The interior emphasized width with horizontal lines and a higher seating position for a comfortable ride. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with most controls conveniently located. The center console featured smart storage solutions, and the materials used throughout the cabin had a premium feel. The second and third rows were spacious and comfortable, making the Sienna a practical choice for families.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, producing 235 horsepower at 4,500 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque at 1,600 rpm. However, its 4,103-pound curb weight made the engine feel less powerful. The optional 3.6-liter V6 engine offered 276 hp at 6,200 rpm and 266 lb-ft at 2,750 rpm, providing a more spirited driving experience. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the vehicle was primarily front-wheel drive, with an optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The V6 engine allowed for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Atlas Cross Sport had various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, and offered 8 inches of ground clearance. However, it was a thirsty vehicle, averaging 18.7 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors, producing a total of 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an all-wheel-drive option available. The AWD system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the mechanical setup. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The Sienna Hybrid offered four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Its handling was significantly improved with new front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension. The big news was its impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models rated at 35 mpg combined.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, though smaller than the Atlas, offered a spacious interior. The front seats were large, heated, and ventilated, with numerous power adjustments. The second row was comfortable for adults and children alike, with ample legroom and headroom. The vehicle had plenty of storage options, including a large center console, door panel bins, and a glove box. However, the dual-zone automatic climate control system struggled in direct sunlight. Cargo space was generous, with 40.3 cubic feet behind the back seat and 77.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid excelled in convenience and functionality. It featured a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored away easily, and the second row could slide up to 25 inches for easy access. The cabin had 16 cupholders and numerous storage cubbies. The Sienna could carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, offering 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101.0 cubic feet behind the first row. The hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate, responsive to kick motions, added to its family-friendly features.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered three infotainment systems, with the top-trim test vehicle featuring an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen display. It supported two Bluetooth device pairings simultaneously and included Car-Net connected services like WiFi, remote engine starting, and safe teen driving features. The 12-speaker Fender premium sound system provided excellent audio quality. However, the lack of a natural voice recognition system was a drawback, requiring users to rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for voice commands.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was packed with technology. A nine-inch touchscreen was standard, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM. Connectivity features included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The driver benefited from a multi-information display, a 10-inch Head-Up Display in Platinum trims, and a digital rearview mirror. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System available on higher trims.

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including an automatic post-collision braking system. The SEL Premium R-Line trim included advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) like road-sign recognition and Traffic Jam Assist. The Lane Assist system and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic emergency braking were notable inclusions. Crash-test results were not available, but the larger Atlas performed well in safety tests.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, and more. The Star Safety System added enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sienna had 10 airbags and multiple LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring system were standard. Crash-test ratings for the 2021 model were not available, but the 2020 Sienna received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.