2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2021 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade and Toyota Sienna represent the pinnacle of American luxury and innovation in their respective categories. The Escalade, a symbol of affluence and technological sophistication, has evolved with the digital-native Millennials, who are now looking to spend their inherited wealth on vehicles that blend luxury with the latest technology. This fifth-generation Escalade, adorned with 22-inch wheels, aims to fulfill the desires of a generation raised on rap music, now settling into suburban life. Conversely, the 2021 Toyota Sienna has undergone a significant transformation, entering its fourth generation with a standard hybrid powertrain. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K) platform, the Sienna Hybrid emphasizes fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness, catering to modern families' needs without sacrificing comfort or space.

Performance ratings from CarGurus experts see the 2021 Cadillac Escalade with a 9 out of 10 and the 2021 Toyota Sienna with an 8 out of 10. The Escalade offers a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine or an optional 3.0-liter turbo-diesel, providing impressive acceleration and towing capabilities, enhanced by advanced technologies like Magnetic Ride Control and an air suspension system for superior ride comfort. The Sienna's hybrid powertrain, while less powerful, delivers remarkable fuel efficiency and smooth operation, making it a practical choice for family transportation.

In the realm of form and function, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade impresses with a perfect score of 10 out of 10, showcasing significant improvements in interior space and utility. Thanks to a new independent rear suspension and a longer wheelbase, the Escalade offers a larger and more accommodating cabin. Front-seat occupants are treated to an environment of luxury and high-tech controls, while rear passengers enjoy increased legroom and comfort, especially in the third row. This design transformation results in a remarkable increase in cargo capacity, offering 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 63 cubic feet with the third row folded, and an expansive 109.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Opting for the extended-length Escalade ESV model further increases cargo volumes to 42.9, 81.5, and 126.6 cubic feet behind the third, second, and first rows, respectively. The 2021 Toyota Sienna, scoring a 9 out of 10, excels in delivering a highly functional and versatile interior, designed with families in mind. Its innovative features include power-operated doors and a smartly designed interior that maximizes passenger comfort and cargo space. The Sienna's hybrid battery placement under the front seats ensures that cargo space is not compromised, maintaining a generous capacity of 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 101.0 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. This clever design, combined with the Sienna's ability to accommodate various passenger and cargo configurations, highlights Toyota's focus on practicality and convenience for the modern family.

When it comes to technology, the Escalade is rated 8 out of 10, whereas the Sienna edges slightly ahead with a 9 out of 10. The Escalade's cabin is a tech enthusiast's dream, featuring a massive curved OLED display and a suite of advanced features, albeit with some usability quirks. The Sienna, while less flashy, provides a comprehensive array of technology aimed at convenience and connectivity, with a focus on family-friendly features.

Safety ratings are 8 out of 10 for the Escalade and 7 out of 10 for the Sienna. Both vehicles are equipped with an array of driver-assistance technologies. The Escalade's robust safety features are complemented by its sheer size and advanced systems like Super Cruise for semi-autonomous driving. The Sienna's Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package offers comprehensive protection with features designed to enhance the safety of all passengers.

The Escalade's luxury comes at a high cost, earning it a 5 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness, while the Sienna's efficient hybrid powertrain and competitive pricing grant it an 8 out of 10. The Escalade justifies its premium with unparalleled luxury and performance, appealing to those who prioritize style and power. The Sienna represents a practical, value-packed option for families seeking efficiency, comfort, and reliability.