2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, inspired by the larger Blazer midsize crossover SUV, was a stylish subcompact vehicle. It featured dark gray plastic trim around its lower perimeter, triple front lights similar to the Hyundai Kona, and two-tone paint schemes reminiscent of the Kia Soul. The Activ trim added a rugged appearance with front and rear skid plate trim, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, sport terrain tires, a larger grille, and standard two-tone paint. Our test vehicle, priced at $30,580, had Mosaic Black paint, a Summit White roof, and Jet Black leatherette seats with Arizona cabin accents. The interior design was excellent, with a well-laid-out control system, useful storage, and attractive detailing. However, the presence of hard shiny plastic was less acceptable at higher price points.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine minivan aesthetics with a more SUV-like appearance. It featured a wide grille, sleek LED headlamp arrays, and sculpted sliding side doors. Alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches filled the arches, enhancing its assertive stance. The rear design managed to look wide and low, maintaining Toyota's high-quality fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, a higher seating position, and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was practical, with ample storage and a bridge design that left space for a handbag. The second and third rows were comfortable for adults, with the second row sliding fore and aft for maximum utility.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with two engine options. The base models had a turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Higher trims featured a turbocharged 1.3-liter 3-cylinder engine with 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, and AWD models swapped the CVT for a 9-speed automatic. The Activ AWD's powertrain was agreeable, with torque available from 1,600 to 4,000 rpm. The 9-speed automatic provided smooth gear changes, and Sport mode enhanced responsiveness. The Trailblazer averaged 26.6 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg. However, it had quirks like transmission hesitation in Normal mode and suspension impact harshness over bumps.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all trims. The AWD system used a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the design. The Sienna's electronically controlled CVT delivered power smoothly but lacked throttle response. Four selectable drive modes (Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport) offered some flexibility. The new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension improved handling, minimizing body roll. The Sienna Hybrid achieved impressive fuel economy, with FWD models rated at 36 mpg combined and AWD models at 35 mpg combined.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered leatherette seats, which tended to trap sweat, and the automatic climate control struggled to keep the cabin cool. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seat was less so, with a flat cushion and reclined backrest. The rear lacked air conditioning vents, adding to passenger discomfort. However, the flat rear seat cushion translated into a flat cargo floor when folded, expanding cargo space from 25.3 to 54.4 cubic feet. The front passenger seat also folded down, providing 8.5 feet of cargo length.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience functions, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored easily. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin had ample storage, with 16 cupholders and bottle holders in all four side doors. The Sienna could carry 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 tucked under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate responded to kick motions, adding to the family-friendly features.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer offered two infotainment systems. The base system had a 7-inch touchscreen, dual Bluetooth pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, Teen Driver technology, and Chevrolet Connected Access services with a WiFi hotspot. The upgraded system for Activ and RS trims included an 8-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and cloud-connected vehicle personalization. The Trailblazer also featured USB-A and USB-C ports, wireless charging, and a 7-speaker Bose premium sound system. The interface was intuitive, with physical controls for power, volume, tuning, and navigation.

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

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer came with standard Chevy Safety Assist, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and a safe following distance indicator. It also featured a rear-seat reminder system, Teen Driver technology, and automatic collision notification. Optional safety features included a blind-spot warning system, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assistance, a high-definition reversing camera, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were inconsistent in performance. Crash-test ratings were pending at the time of review.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System added enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. The Sienna had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A rear-seat reminder system and tire pressure monitoring system were standard. The spare tire location was improved for safety. Crash-test ratings were pending, but the 2020 Sienna had received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.