2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Toyota Sienna attempted to redefine the aesthetic expectations of minivans, straying from the marred image of past models. At first glance, it embraced an SUV-like appearance, characterized by a wide grille emphasizing the minivan's width and sleek horizontally arranged LED headlamps flanking a prominent Toyota logo. The side profile offered an assertive stance with re-engineered sliding doors, highlighted by a swooping body line bulging over the rear wheels. Alloy wheels ranged from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim, enhancing its robust look. The rear of the Sienna, featuring a large window, managed to appear wide and low, a feat for a minivan. The fit and finish were meticulously executed, living up to Toyota’s high standards.

Inside, the Sienna continued the width emphasis through horizontal lines, creating a more inviting atmosphere than previous models. It provided a comfortable seating position, higher than sedans but more relaxed than full-sized SUVs. The uncluttered dashboard placed significant controls at the upper center stack beneath the infotainment screen. The center console, bridging the dash and storage compartment, housed a practical array of controls, cupholders, and storage spaces, efficiently using space. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and high-quality materials added a touch of elegance. Both second and third rows offered ample comfort for adults, and the flexible second row could slide to accommodate varying needs.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q5 was a sophisticated-looking crossover SUV that beautifully adhered to Audi’s design language while maintaining its individuality. Its expressive front presented LED headlights and the large Singleframe grille accentuated by horizontal elements, exuding width and sophistication. Crisp character lines marked the body, and the greenhouse offered a protective shell-like appearance. The bold taillights at the rear contributed to its modern and classy appearance. The Q5 PHEV sported unique S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, including standard 19-inch wheels with an option for 20-inch, further differentiating it from the gasoline-only variant.

Inside, the Q5 maintained a modern and uncluttered aesthetic, loaded with technology while retaining elegance. Buttons, switches, and knobs were well-organized, contributing to a cohesive design. High-level materials such as real wood, metal, and honed surfaces were meticulously integrated. The 10.1-inch touchscreen sat at an optimal position within the center stack, ensuring easy visibility for the driver. The second row featured standard leather surfaces, emphasizing comfort and luxury for all passengers.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota’s first venture into hybrid minivans, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an all-wheel drive option available across all trim levels. The AWD system utilized a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying mechanical complexity. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) was geared towards smooth and efficient power delivery, albeit at the cost of throttle responsiveness. Despite this, selectable drive modes, including Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport, allowed drivers some control over performance, although "Sport" was more of a gentle persuasion for liveliness. Handling saw notable improvements with new TNGA front and independent rear trailing arm suspensions. The Sienna Hybrid achieved impressive fuel economy, with FWD models reaching 36 mpg across the board and AWD variants slightly lower at 35/36/35 mpg.

On the other hand, the Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the already enjoyable driving experience of the Q5. The PHEV combined a 14.1-kWh battery with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing a total of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup offered remarkable acceleration, clocking 0-60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. The electric motor provided crucial backup during low-demand situations, contributing to a combined fuel economy of 65 MPGe. In gasoline-only mode, it achieved 27 mpg combined. The battery could be fully recharged overnight using household current or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service, making it convenient for daily use. The seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive facilitated a balanced driving experience, with various modes for hybrid functionality. Handling was proficient, with speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering and independent suspension setups lending a sporty yet comfortable ride.

Minivans are often judged on their convenience, and the 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in this area. Its third-row came as a standard 60/40-split bench that could be easily stowed into the floor, while the second-row slider, spanning 25 inches, facilitated easy access to the third row. The cabin was replete with storage cubbies and cupholders, accumulating a total of 16 cupholders. The Sienna showcased its practicality by accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed and offered flexibility for luggage and freight. Nominal cargo space measured 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101.0 cubic feet behind the first row, with the sliding second row enhancing cargo management. It could tow up to 3,500 pounds. The cleverly positioned 288-volt Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack under the front seats had no adverse effect on cargo space. The power-operated side sliding doors and rear tailgate, responding to kick motions, added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Audi Q5 leveraged its compact crossover SUV design to pack in functionality and convenience. Its strategic packaging allowed the battery pack to fit under the luggage compartment floor without sacrificing cargo space. It offered 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The second row provided decent legroom at 37.8 inches and sufficient headroom and shoulder room at 37.7 and 56.5 inches, respectively. The front-row seats afforded exceptional comfort, with comprehensive adjustments, heating, and optional ventilation on the Prestige trim level. Additionally, the front row featured practical storage solutions with cupholders and numerous small storage cubbies.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was laden with technology, starting with a nine-inch touchscreen standard across all trims, which interfaced with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It came with a variety of trials for connectivity services, including 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. Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming were standard. Higher trims offered Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter to power devices. The audio system ranged from a six-speaker stereo on the LE trim to a 12-speaker Premium Audio + JBL package on Limited and Platinum trims. The rear-seat entertainment system, available on XLE and above, featured an 11.6-inch screen with wireless headphones and HDMI input. Standard features included a color multi-information display and optional upgrades like a digital rearview mirror and a 10-inch color Head-Up Display on higher trims.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV incorporated Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a center-console touchpad. The impressive Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster, featuring three customizable views, enhanced the futuristic appeal of the cabin. The Prestige Package included a Navigation Package, which synchronized with the hybrid system for optimized fuel efficiency. An Integrated Toll Module was standard, eliminating the need for external transponders. Premium Plus models and above could be equipped with a high-quality Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay was standard and performed seamlessly.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision systems, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System added enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. It featured 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, along with a standard rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring system. The inflator kit was standard, though a spare tire was optional. The 2020 Sienna had received good ratings for several IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though 2021 ratings were pending.

Safety features in the 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV closely mirrored those of the gasoline-only version, which had garnered excellent ratings. Standard safety included six airbags, brake assist, Audi Pre Sense basic, low-speed collision assist, power child safety locks, electronic stability control, anti-theft systems, daytime running lights, rearview camera, and TPMS. Advanced driver-assistance systems available included Audi Advanced Key, Pre Sense rear, Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, Parking System Plus, adaptive cruise control, park steering assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a top-view camera system.