2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Chevrolet Traverse

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, depending on the trim. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was thoughtfully designed, providing ample storage and convenience features. The second and third rows were spacious, with the second row offering sliding capabilities for enhanced utility and comfort.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, while a crossover SUV, shared some minivan characteristics but opted for conventional rear doors. It featured a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages. The RS trim, with its blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, was particularly appealing. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and a logical layout. The materials were a mix of hard plastics and polished metallic accents. The Traverse's interior design was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls and a focus on functionality. The vehicle offered a firm yet compliant ride, with a V6 engine providing adequate power for family trips.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was 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 automatic transmission (CVT), which, while efficient, slightly dulled throttle response. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension systems, and it boasted impressive fuel economy figures of 36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg for AWD models.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a single engine option: a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It had a tow rating of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped and offered various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The Traverse's V6 engine provided sufficient power, and its fuel economy was rated at 20 mpg combined for AWD models. The Traverse delivered a firm ride in town and a comfortable highway experience, though it exhibited more road and wind noise than desired. Its handling was predictable, with limited body roll and a flat cornering attitude.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that folded into the floor. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The Sienna offered ample storage, with 16 cupholders and the ability to carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood. 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 features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, in RS trim, featured captain's chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to seven. It offered power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated access to the third row. The Traverse provided generous legroom and headroom, though the captain's chairs lacked leg support. Cargo space was abundant, with a hidden compartment behind the infotainment screen and another under the cargo floor. It offered 23 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna featured a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered various connectivity trials, including Safety Connect and Remote Connect. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a 12-speaker JBL package. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, and the driver benefited from a multi-information display and optional digital rearview mirror. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It supported Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Teen Driver technology was standard, and higher trims offered navigation, SiriusXM 360L, and a Bose premium sound system. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with excellent voice recognition. Visibility was generally good, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced safety.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It had 10 airbags and LATCH connectors, along with a rear-seat reminder system. A tire pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were standard. The 2020 Sienna received high safety ratings, though 2021 ratings were pending.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with Chevy Safety Assist, offering forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. A Safety Package added rear parking assist and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received top ratings in most collision tests, though some assessments were pending.