2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, traditionally not known for its style. Toyota's designers gave the Sienna a more SUV-like appearance, with a wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays that integrated seamlessly with the Toyota logo. The side profile featured an assertive stance, thanks to the re-engineered sliding side doors with a sculpted redesign. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches added to its visual appeal. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The second and third-row seats provided ample comfort and flexibility, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. The Navigator's styling was defined by simple rectilinear shapes, with a few chrome accents adding a touch of class. The interior impressed with its seven colour palettes and attention to finer details, such as the layered wood trim and floating centre console. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing a luxurious experience. While the Navigator's materials and panel gaps were of high quality, it lacked the sumptuousness of some competitors. However, its overall refinement and power made it a compelling choice for those seeking a plush ride.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first foray into hybrid minivans, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 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 continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) prioritized fuel efficiency, achieving impressive ratings of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving for FWD models. While the CVT's throttle response was less lively, the Sienna's handling improved significantly with its new suspension system, providing a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, boasted a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, the Navigator offered impressive acceleration and towing capacity of 3,765 kilograms. However, its fuel efficiency was less commendable, with a combined rating of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a smooth ride, its suspension and steering fell short of the precision offered by competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. Nevertheless, the Navigator's power and refinement made it a formidable contender in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored away. The second row's sliding capability allowed for flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. With 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, the Sienna catered to families' needs. Its cargo capacity was impressive, accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added to its family-friendly features.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. Its boxy shape provided generous cargo space, with 546 litres behind the third row and 2,925 litres in total. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some advanced features found in competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, enhancing the driving experience. While the Navigator's large windows and high driving position improved visibility, parking remained challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It featured a range of connectivity options, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect trials. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Sienna's driver-focused tech included a digital rearview mirror and a multi-information display, enhancing convenience and safety.

In contrast, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator's 10-inch touchscreen felt outdated compared to newer competitors. While it offered Bluetooth and SiriusXM, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. The Navigator's software was intuitive, though slightly slow in response. It featured wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. Despite its simplicity, the Navigator's technology package fell short of the cutting-edge features found in some rivals.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured the Star Safety System and blind spot monitoring. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA, though it scored four stars for front and rollover resistance.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, with four stars for rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional inflatable rear seat belts added an extra layer of protection. However, the Navigator's adaptive cruise control lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.