2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2020 Toyota Sienna

The 2020 Toyota Sienna, in its third generation, had been around since the 2011 model year. Despite a 2018 update that incorporated newer infotainment tech and minor changes, the 2020 version still felt dated. The front doors emitted a hollow "thud" when slammed, indicating a lack of attention to fit and finish. The instrument panel looked like it came from Toyota's 2010 parts bin, though its simplicity made the controls easy to use. The Sienna was available in multiple trims, from the base L to the Limited Premium, each offering various features like 17-inch alloy wheels, three-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, introduced in its third generation for the 2020 model year, carried over with a more modern and luxurious feel. The GLS had softened angles and lines, making it appear more svelte than its predecessors. Inside, it featured a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen spanning nearly two-thirds of the dash area, emphasizing its tech-reliant controls. The GLS was available in three levels: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the AMG GLS 63 performance model. Standard features included remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 13-speaker Burmester premium sound system.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It offered stout acceleration in normal Drive mode, with a Sport mode for livelier throttle and shift response. The Sienna had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and was available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The FWD Sienna returned 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined, while AWD versions returned 18/24/20. Despite its low center of gravity and broad base, the Sienna's twitchy steering response required constant attention at higher speeds.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 had a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivered 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63 had an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive-mode settings, and E-Active Body Control for a composed ride. It handled like a smaller car, making it easily maneuverable in the city.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo space, offering 150 cubic feet, more than competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. However, accessing this space required removing the second-row seats, which could be cumbersome. The third row folded seamlessly into the floor, but getting into the backseat was challenging. Toyota also offered mobility access features like the Auto Access Seat, making it easier for those needing mobility conversions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Seven-passenger seating was standard, with optional second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six. The third row was less spacious but still suitable for adults. The GLS had 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. The driver and front passenger enjoyed numerous cubbies and compartments, though the center console was relatively small.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna's base L trim featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Standard tech included Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and a WiFi hotspot with a 6-month trial. Higher trims like the Limited came with navigation and a JBL 10-speaker premium audio system. The Driver Easy Speak intercom system allowed the driver to communicate with rear passengers without raising their voice.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station" and could be activated by saying "Hey Mercedes." The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. This setup allowed for a customizable and tech-savvy driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Sienna came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) suite, including lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring was optional on lower trims and standard on higher trims like the XLE and Limited. The Sienna earned five stars in NHTSA crash testing and top scores from the IIHS.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS also came with a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.