2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, redesigned in 2018, presented a stylish yet conservative German aesthetic. Its exterior featured clean lines and a horizontal grille adorned with Volkswagen's new flat logo, connecting the headlights. The design was straightforward, lacking adventurous elements, which appealed to those who preferred a classic car look. However, the interior was less impressive, with plain surfaces and hard black plastic that seemed a step down from Volkswagen's previous high standards. The cockpit was simple, bordering on boring, with the focus shifted to electronics like the optional digital dashboard and touchscreen infotainment system, which were visually appealing.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with an SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays gave it a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was marked by Toyota's superb fit and finish, with alloy wheels enhancing its appeal. Inside, the emphasis on width and horizontal lines created a spacious feel. The dashboard was uncluttered, and the center console offered smart storage solutions. The second and third rows provided ample comfort, with the second row sliding for maximum utility.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the Tiguan's powertrain delivered a snappy throttle response, though it was only moderately quick. The cabin was well-insulated, providing a quiet ride, but some road noise could intrude on rough surfaces. The Tiguan's handling was affected by its larger size, with a longer wheelbase making it less nimble. Its suspension ensured a comfortable drive, but the steering was light, even in sport mode.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, generating 243 horsepower. It featured an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritized fuel efficiency over throttle response. The Sienna offered four drive modes, with "Sport" providing a slightly livelier experience. Its handling was improved with new suspension systems, minimizing body roll and ensuring a comfortable ride. The Sienna's standout feature was its impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models 35 mpg combined.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, with a second row that slid up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. While the third row wasn't spacious, it was suitable for shorter adults and children. The Tiguan offered a cargo capacity of 65.7 cubic feet with the third row collapsed, and 73.5 cubic feet in two-row models. The driver's seat felt roomy, with ample hip and shoulder room, and the abundant glass provided a sense of spaciousness.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna prioritized convenience, with a standard third row that folded into the floor and a second row that slid up to 25 inches for easy access. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies. The Sienna could carry a full 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, and 101.0 cubic feet behind the first. Its hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen on the base trim and an 8-inch upgrade on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with bright graphics and a responsive processor. The Tiguan included a single USB-C port on the base trim, with USB-A ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims. The Digital Cockpit was available on top trims, offering customizable displays. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot were standard.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna boasted a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It included a year’s trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect, a ten-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver enjoyed a multi-information display and, on Platinum trims, a 10-inch Head-Up Display. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan came with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance were reserved for the top SEL trim. The Tiguan featured Car-Net telematics, offering remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location. The IIHS rated it a Top Safety Pick for SEL Premium models with LED headlights, while most models had halogen headlights rated poor.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, and more. It had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, with a rear-seat reminder system. A tire pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were standard, with an optional spare tire. The 2020 Sienna received good ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.