2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

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 added an assertive stance. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches enhanced its visual appeal. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a well-organized dashboard. The second and third rows provided ample space and comfort, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had evolved since its debut, with a more proportioned look. The exterior varied significantly with trim levels, from the basic Latitude to the upscale 80th Anniversary Edition. The Cherokee's optional panoramic sunroof was a standout feature, covering the entire top surface. Despite its compact crossover classification, the Cherokee maintained a distinctive appearance, resembling the larger Grand Cherokee from the front.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery, though it lacked throttle response. The Sienna's handling improved with new front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, minimizing body roll. Its fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models rated at 35 mpg combined.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V-6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission proved capable and fuel-efficient. While acceleration was modest, the Cherokee excelled in off-road capability, especially the Trailhawk model with features like Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. The Cherokee was available in both FWD and AWD, catering to different price points and needs.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and cargo handling. It featured a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily, and a second row that slid up to 25 inches for easy access. The cabin boasted 16 cupholders and ample storage space. 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.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee, positioned between the Renegade and Grand Cherokee, offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, falling short compared to competitors. It provided about 102 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it competitive in its class. The interior layout was simple and businesslike, with trim levels significantly affecting the cabin's feel. Higher trims like the Trailhawk and Latitude Lux offered more upscale materials and finishes.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was packed with technology, featuring a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various connectivity options, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and AT&T WiFi Connect. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a 12-speaker JBL package. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, along with a color multi-information display and a 10-inch Head-Up Display in Platinum models. The Sienna also offered a digital rearview mirror and Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee featured the Uconnect infotainment system with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreen options. It supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with a 4G WiFi hotspot. The Cherokee's climate control and infotainment interfaces were user-friendly, with easy access to heated seat controls. Remote start was available, enhancing convenience in various climates. The Uconnect system was consistent across Stellantis brands, providing a familiar and reliable experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. It featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The 2020 Sienna received high safety ratings, though 2021 ratings were pending.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee earned top "Good" scores in most IIHS crashworthiness categories but fell short in headlight ratings. It received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trims.