2021 Toyota Mirai XLE: A Deep Dive

by Alex Braham 35 views

Let's dive into the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD, a vehicle that's been turning heads and sparking conversations in the automotive world. If you're thinking about embracing a zero-emission future without sacrificing style or comfort, the Mirai might just be your ticket. This isn't your run-of-the-mill car; it's a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), meaning it runs on hydrogen and emits nothing but water vapor. Pretty cool, right?

Under the Hood (or Lack Thereof)

So, what makes the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD tick? Instead of a traditional combustion engine, it uses a hydrogen fuel cell. This nifty piece of tech combines hydrogen with oxygen to produce electricity, which then powers the electric motor. The only byproduct? Good old H2O. The Mirai boasts a range of around 402 miles on a full tank of hydrogen, making it a practical option for daily commutes and longer journeys alike. And when it's time to refuel, you won't be stuck waiting for hours like with some electric cars. Filling up the hydrogen tanks takes about the same time as filling a gasoline car – around 5 minutes.

Let's talk performance. The electric motor delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with 182 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. It's not a sports car by any means, but it's got enough pep to keep you entertained. The Mirai accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in around 9 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle focused on efficiency and sustainability. Plus, the instant torque from the electric motor makes city driving a breeze.

Exterior Design

The 2021 Mirai underwent a significant redesign, and it's a looker. Gone are the quirky lines of the previous generation, replaced by a sleek and sophisticated design that wouldn't look out of place in a sci-fi movie. The long hood, sloping roofline, and bold front grille give it a premium and aerodynamic appearance. The XLE trim comes with stylish 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof, adding to its curb appeal. Available in a range of eye-catching colors, the Mirai is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE, and you'll be greeted by a spacious and luxurious cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasure. The interior is decked out in high-quality materials, with soft-touch surfaces and elegant trim accents. The XLE trim comes standard with heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. It’s a very cozy experience inside, guys.

Toyota has packed the Mirai with a host of advanced technology features. The centerpiece is a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use and responsive. It comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, so you can stay connected on the go. Other tech goodies include a premium JBL sound system, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. Safety is also a top priority, with the Mirai coming standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of driver-assistance features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. It’s great for a family looking for tech and safety!

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD offers a smooth and refined driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, making acceleration effortless. The ride is comfortable and composed, thanks to the car's well-tuned suspension. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you confidence on winding roads. One of the most noticeable things about driving the Mirai is how quiet it is. With no engine noise, the cabin is serene and peaceful, making for a relaxing driving experience. It’s an amazing experience for those who enjoy the silence.

Fueling Up: The Hydrogen Hurdle

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: hydrogen fueling infrastructure. While the Mirai offers a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered cars, its practicality is limited by the availability of hydrogen fueling stations. Currently, hydrogen stations are primarily concentrated in California, with limited availability in other states. This means that if you don't live near a hydrogen station, owning a Mirai might not be feasible.

However, Toyota is working to expand the hydrogen fueling infrastructure. The company offers incentives to Mirai owners, such as free hydrogen fuel for a certain period, to help offset the cost of refueling. Additionally, Toyota is partnering with various organizations to build more hydrogen stations across the country. As the hydrogen infrastructure continues to grow, the Mirai will become a more viable option for a wider range of drivers. It’s an issue that will be fixed as the technology advances.

Trims and Features

The 2021 Toyota Mirai is available in two trims: XLE and Limited. The XLE trim comes standard with a generous array of features, including: 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Toyota Safety Sense.

Stepping up to the Limited trim adds even more luxury and convenience features, such as: 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic view monitor, and a premium JBL sound system. Both trims offer a compelling package, but the XLE represents a great value for those looking to get into a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle without breaking the bank.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Zero emissions: The Mirai produces no harmful emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
  • Long range: With a range of over 400 miles, the Mirai is suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips.
  • Quick refueling: Filling up the hydrogen tanks takes about the same time as filling a gasoline car.
  • Smooth and quiet driving experience: The electric motor provides instant torque and a serene driving experience.
  • Stylish design: The Mirai's sleek and modern design is sure to turn heads.

Cons:

  • Limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure: The availability of hydrogen stations is currently limited to certain areas.
  • Higher price tag: The Mirai is more expensive than comparable gasoline-powered cars.
  • Fuel cell technology is still relatively new: Some drivers may be hesitant to embrace a technology that is not yet widely adopted.

The Verdict

The 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD is an impressive vehicle that showcases the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology. It offers a zero-emission driving experience, a long range, and a stylish design. However, the limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure remains a significant barrier to adoption. If you live in an area with access to hydrogen stations and are looking for an environmentally friendly alternative to gasoline-powered cars, the Mirai is definitely worth considering. But if you don't, you may want to wait until the hydrogen infrastructure becomes more widespread. It’s a game changer, if you have access to it.

Is the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD worth it?

Deciding whether the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD is worth your investment really boils down to a few key factors. First and foremost, consider your location. As we've discussed, the availability of hydrogen fueling stations is the biggest hurdle. If you live in California, particularly Southern California, where hydrogen stations are relatively common, the Mirai becomes a much more practical option. However, if you reside in a state with limited or no hydrogen infrastructure, the Mirai might not be the best choice for you, at least not yet.

Next, think about your driving habits and needs. The Mirai's range of over 400 miles is impressive, making it suitable for daily commutes and even longer road trips. If you typically drive long distances, the Mirai could be a great fit. Additionally, consider the environmental benefits. If you're passionate about reducing your carbon footprint and driving a zero-emission vehicle, the Mirai is a compelling option.

Finally, factor in the cost. The Mirai has a higher price tag than comparable gasoline-powered cars, but keep in mind that you'll save money on fuel costs since you'll be using hydrogen instead of gasoline. Toyota also offers incentives, such as free hydrogen fuel for a certain period, which can help offset the initial cost. Plus, you may be eligible for state and federal tax credits, further reducing the overall cost of ownership. Considering all these factors, the Mirai can be a worthwhile investment for the right person in the right location.

What are the alternatives to the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD?

If the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD isn't quite the right fit for you, don't worry, there are several other alternatives to consider in the world of eco-friendly vehicles. One popular option is a battery-electric vehicle (BEV), such as the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, or Chevrolet Bolt. BEVs run solely on electricity and offer zero emissions, just like the Mirai. However, instead of refueling with hydrogen, you'll need to charge the battery at a charging station or at home. The charging time can vary depending on the vehicle and the charging station, but it typically takes longer than refueling with hydrogen.

Another alternative is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), such as the Toyota Prius Prime or the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. PHEVs combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery. You can drive them on electric power for a certain range, and then the gasoline engine kicks in when the battery is depleted. PHEVs offer a good balance of electric driving and gasoline-powered flexibility.

If you're not quite ready to go electric, you could also consider a traditional hybrid vehicle, such as the Toyota Prius or the Honda Insight. Hybrids combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency. They don't need to be plugged in, as the battery is charged by the gasoline engine and regenerative braking. Hybrids offer better fuel economy than traditional gasoline cars, but they don't provide the zero-emission driving of BEVs or FCEVs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2021 Toyota Mirai XLE FWD is a groundbreaking vehicle that represents the future of sustainable transportation. Its hydrogen fuel cell technology, stylish design, and comfortable interior make it a compelling option for environmentally conscious drivers. However, the limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure remains a significant challenge. If you live in an area with access to hydrogen stations and are looking for a zero-emission vehicle, the Mirai is definitely worth considering. But if not, there are other alternatives to explore, such as battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and traditional hybrids. The future of driving is electric, and the Mirai is at the forefront of this revolution.