2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Hyundai Kona

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays gave it a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel sizes added to its assertive stance. The rear design managed to look wide and low, maintaining Toyota's high standards of fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines and a higher seating position, offering a comfortable ride. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with a well-organized center console that included smart storage solutions. The second and third rows provided ample comfort and flexibility, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona, on the other hand, showcased a funky and playful design, appealing to younger buyers. Its front end featured a busy but unique lighting arrangement, while the rear had a more subdued crossover shape. Inside, the Kona continued its fun attitude with neat seat patterns and a well-organized layout. The infotainment system was mounted high on the dash, and the physical climate controls were easy to use. The interior was simple and intuitive, making the most of the Kona's compact space.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, tended to blunt throttle response. Four selectable drive modes allowed for some customization, though "Sport" mode was only somewhat livelier. The new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension improved handling, making the Sienna comfortable and easy to drive. Fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg city/highway/combined and AWD models rated at 35/36/35 mpg.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona offered two powertrain options: a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 195 horsepower. The base engine came with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the turbo engine had a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The Kona's dual-clutch transmission provided a sporty feel at higher speeds but was less graceful at low speeds. Despite its modest power, the Kona handled confidently and felt agile, offering a fun driving experience. Fuel economy varied by configuration, with the base engine and FWD achieving 27/33/30 mpg and the turbo engine with AWD delivering 26/29/27 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured ample storage, including 16 cupholders (15 with the spare tire option). 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 2021 Hyundai Kona provided decent headroom and legroom for front-seat passengers, with controls and displays within easy reach. The front seats were wide and well-padded but lacked support for spirited driving. Back-seat passengers had good headroom but limited legroom, and large rear-facing car seats could be problematic for taller front passengers. The Kona's cargo space was limited compared to competitors, though the rear seats folded to expand the area. Small-item storage was generous, with large door pockets and a spacious center console.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was packed with technology, featuring a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Connectivity options included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered Qi-compatible charging, a 1500-watt inverter, and a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available on higher trims. The driver benefited from a multi-information display, a 10-inch Head-Up Display on Platinum models, and an optional digital rearview mirror. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona came with an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, six speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB inputs. Available tech included SiriusXM radio, navigation, wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon audio system, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a simple, colorful, and responsive interface.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System, with enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology, was standard. The Sienna had 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Crash-test ratings for 2021 were not yet available, but the 2020 model received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona earned a Top Safety Pick from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, driver attention warning, and rear occupant alert. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a head-up display, and parking sensors.