2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

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 renowned fit and finish, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches enhancing its appeal. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a well-organized dashboard. The interior featured smart storage solutions, including a bridge-like center console and a spacious second and third row, making it practical for families.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, maintained a familiar yet distinct design with sharp edges and a streamlined profile. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX's interior felt dated, with a stepped center console and plastic switchgear. The Black Line package added unique touches like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality didn't match typical luxury standards. The NX's design was functional, with easy-to-reach controls, but it lacked the traditional luxury feel some buyers might expect.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, delivering 243 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the latter using a separate electric motor for the rear wheels. The Sienna's electronically controlled CVT provided smooth power delivery, though it lacked punch. Its handling was improved with new suspension systems, and it boasted impressive fuel economy, achieving 36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on efficiency than excitement. The NX's acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension enhanced handling, but the steering felt numb. Drive modes offered little difference, and the NX struggled with power transitions, impacting its driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience, with a standard third-row bench and a second row that slid 25 inches for easy access. It offered ample storage, with 16 cupholders and flexible cargo space capable of accommodating a full sheet of plywood. The Sienna's battery placement under the front seats preserved cargo space, and power-operated doors added family-friendly functionality.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited headroom and rear legroom, making the rear seats feel cramped. The front seats offered good support, with power adjustments and available heated and ventilated options. The NX's cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered visibility, though exterior mirrors helped compensate.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various connectivity trials and optional upgrades like a JBL audio system and rear-seat entertainment. The driver benefited from a multi-information display and optional digital rearview mirror, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an awkward touchpad interface and dated graphics. It included an 8-inch display with smartphone compatibility and a WiFi hotspot. The base audio system was underwhelming, and the overall system felt outdated compared to competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. It included 10 airbags and a rear-seat reminder system. While crash-test ratings for 2021 were pending, the 2020 model received strong ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It featured the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, with a robust array of driver aids. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system, which was common among competitors.