2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was marked by Toyota's signature quality, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The interior was designed for practicality, featuring a bridge-like center console with ample storage and a beefy leather-wrapped steering wheel. The second and third rows provided comfort for adults, with the second row offering flexibility for maximum utility.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks showcased significant exterior updates, aligning with Nissan's new design language. Its bold front featured a double V-motion grille, while thinner, longer headlights extended down the face. The Kicks SR trim boasted LED headlights and fog lights, enhancing its sporty aesthetic. The rear design emphasized proportion, with a new bumper and LED taillights. The Kicks offered a variety of paint options, including two-tone combinations that accentuated its upmarket look. Inside, the Kicks maintained its familiar styling but incorporated higher quality materials, drawing inspiration from the 2020 Nissan Sentra. The interior featured new seat and door designs, with the Kicks SR Premium Package offering Prima-Tex-appointed seating with a three-tone design.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims. The Sienna utilized an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, minimizing body roll. Its fuel economy was impressive, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg city/highway/combined, and AWD models rated at 35/36/35 mpg.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came with a single powertrain option: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. The Kicks' electric power-assisted steering and front independent strut suspension contributed to nimble handling. Despite its low power, the Kicks maintained a good power-to-weight ratio, offering adequate performance for its class. The Kicks SR trim included an integrated dynamic-control module with features like active engine brake and intelligent ride control. Its fuel economy was notable, with an EPA rating of 31 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined, providing a range of 356 miles on a single tank.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. 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. The hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks made efficient use of its compact size, offering easy-to-reach controls and good small-item storage. The cabin featured a D-shaped steering wheel, adjustable front seats, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks boasted best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited for larger drivers. The rear seats comfortably accommodated adults, a rarity in the subcompact class. The available tonneau cover provided hidden storage in the rear cargo area, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna was packed with technology, featuring a standard nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered a range of connectivity options, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect trials. Higher trims boasted a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and, in Platinum trims, a 10-inch Head-Up Display. A digital rearview mirror was available, enhancing visibility when the cabin was full.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a competitive array of tech features, starting with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Kicks SV added Nissan Intelligent Key, automatic climate control, and a USB-C port. The SR Premium Package included a class-exclusive Bose Personal Plus sound system with headrest speakers. A surround-view monitor provided a 360-degree camera view, aiding in parking. An available WiFi hotspot allowed for over-the-air updates, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It included 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, with a rear-seat reminder system for added safety. A tire pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were standard. While 2021 crash-test ratings were pending, the 2020 Sienna received favorable ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning. It included 10 airbags, with driver alertness monitor and rear door alert standard on SV and SR trims. While 2021 crash-test ratings were unavailable, the 2020 model received good marks from IIHS and a four-star overall rating from NHTSA.