2021 Nissan Leaf gets updates and low(ish) price of entry

Some may forget that Nissan was one of the first US automakers to enter the EV market with the first Leaf. That first Nissan EV had unique styling that was attractive, but also said "I'm a little bit different." No grille, and an airy interior were hallmarks of the first Leaf. Range was small, but the technology was in its infancy. Nissan sold quite a few Leafs (Leaves?) and the little EV was updated a few years ago to look less "Leafy" and more like other Nissans. You can debate the wisdom of that choice, but the new 2021 Leaf is an attractive alternative to "regular" compact sedans like Nissan's various Sentra models. The newest Leaf starts with a relatively low prices (for an EV) of under $32k with a 149-mile range and 147 hp and 236 lb./ft. of torque in either S or SV trim. Upgrade to the Leaf PLUS and get up to 226-miles of range and 214 hp and 250 lb./ft. of torque in either the S PLUS, SV PLUS, or SL PLUS trim levels. The top-of-the-line Leaf SL PLUS gets most of the good stuff and tech and pricing starts at just under $44K. Interestingly, it's the Leaf S PLUS that has the greatest range (226 miles). I guess the added equipment in the top trim levels decreases range (215 miles). For more information, check out the media release and pics after the "read more" jump. The newest Leaf could be an inexpensive alternative to other EVs...that is until the tech becomes less expensive in the next few years and there are more options available like Nissan's upcoming Ariya.

Source: Nissan - Media release and pics

Toyota unleashes all-new 2021 Sienna Hybrid minivan for those who want and/or need it

Everyone (seemingly) wants an SUV or crossover. Not everyone needs one though. If you need to move a lot of people and/or stuff (and you don't want a high-liftover) a (gasp) minivan might just be your thing. Toyota, Honda, and FCA still make them and what you see here is the all-new Toyota Sienna for 2021. On the road to this latest fourth generation model, the Sienna has been severely updated. For one, all Siennas will be hybrids moving forward (Toyota estimates a 33 mpg combined rating). that uses a 2.5-liter four and Toyota's hybrid drive system. All-wheel drive is available and uses an electric motor driving the rear wheels combined with the hybrid system up front. This saves space and weight since an AWD transfer case and driveshaft are no longer needed. Cool. The new Sienna can be loaded with all of Toyota's tech, luxury, and features that you might need/want and can afford. See the extensive press release for more specific info like safety suites, luxury upgrades and whether 7 ports and 18 cupholders will be enough.

Since you can outfit your Sienna any way you choose like the XSE model above or the Platinum version below. either way, the vehicle design will probably be a love/hate thing. I'm still on the fence. The bloated lower body is distinctive (ugly?) and makes the Sienna seem very large. And remember, these minivans ain't mini. I am glad to see that Toyota (and others) are still making these. Like I said before, if you need to move a lot of folks and their stuff, these vans can't be beat. Now if you can live down the stigma...oh, and they're getting better mileage.

Source: Extensive press release and pics courtesy of Toyota