2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a familiar yet slightly updated aesthetic, with a new front fascia featuring a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights that echoed the aggressive styling of other Mercedes models like the A-Class and CLS-Class. While the GLC wasn't unattractive, its design was considered somewhat uninspiring from most angles, lacking the visual drama found in competitors like the Volvo XC60 or Acura RDX. The AMG versions, however, added a touch of excitement with their wide tires and distinctive grilles. The interior was a standout, offering one of the best in the business with high-quality materials, impeccable fit and finish, and a new 10.3-inch touchscreen that enhanced the user experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan's image with a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays contributed to a modern look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel options added to its assertive stance. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width and comfort, with a simple dashboard layout and a smartly designed center console. The seating was versatile, with a second row that could slide significantly to accommodate passengers or cargo, and a third row that folded easily into the floor. The Sienna's interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample storage and a pleasant driving position.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This setup improved the driving experience compared to previous models, though it still fell short of competitors like the BMW X3 in terms of engine refinement. The AMG GLC 43, with its 385 hp twin-turbo V6, offered exhilarating performance, while the AMG GLC 63 models boasted even more power with their V8 engines. However, the GLC 300's handling and steering were criticized for being lackluster, with noticeable body roll and vague steering. Fuel economy for the GLC 300 4Matic was rated at 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. The Sienna used an electronically controlled CVT, which prioritized smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency over sporty performance. The Sienna's handling was improved with new suspension and steering systems, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The big news was its impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg city, highway, and combined, while AWD models were rated at 35/36/35 mpg.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a mix of digital and physical controls, with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system providing a customizable and intuitive interface. However, the GLC's interior space was limited, with a complicated backseat reclining mechanism and cargo space of 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience and practicality, with a standard third row and a second row that slid up to 25 inches for easy access. The Sienna's cargo capacity was impressive, with 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 integrated under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate added to the Sienna's family-friendly features.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC's MBUX system included advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a cloud-based voice assistant. While some features were ahead of their time, they were not fully integrated. Standard tech included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB-C ports, with optional wireless charging and an Off-Road Engineering Package.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna offered a nine-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa as standard. Connectivity features included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and WiFi Connect trials. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system, rear-seat entertainment, and a digital rearview mirror. The Sienna's tech package was comprehensive, catering to both driver and passengers.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a 2019 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured advanced safety systems like Exit Warning Assist and Pre-Safe Sound, enhancing its safety credentials.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. It also featured 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire pressure monitoring system. While crash-test ratings for 2021 were not available, the 2020 model received good ratings from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.