2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the original GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS name was adopted midway through the second generation, reflecting its upscale positioning. Despite its large size, the 2021 GLS appeared more streamlined than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and clever design tricks. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric controls.

The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 were abundant, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages added further luxury touches, such as heated armrests and rear-seat tablets. The GLS 580 introduced V8 power and additional amenities like massaging front seats and soft-close doors. The AMG GLS 63, with its aggressive styling and performance-inspired interior, stood out with features like a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel and a leather stripe on the Alcantara wheel.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling cues. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident, with the Sienna's history dating back to the original Van in 1984 and the innovative Previa in 1990. The fourth-generation Sienna, launched in 2021, featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels for a sleeker profile. Standard 17-inch wheels could be upgraded to 18 or 20 inches on higher trims. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin with ample storage, comfortable seating, and a versatile third-row bench that folded into the floor.

The Sienna's interior design avoided the typical minivan feel, with an uncluttered front cabin and numerous storage solutions. Second- and third-row passengers enjoyed roomy seating, with available captain's chairs and a spacious third-row bench. The third row, standard on all grades, could be easily stowed away, and the second-row seats slid up to 25 inches for easy access. The Sienna's practicality extended to its cargo capacity, with the ability to carry a full 4x8 sheet of plywood and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 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 its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed AMG twin-clutch automatic transmission.

The AMG GLS 63's performance was remarkable, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph, despite its 5,400+ pound weight. The adaptive air suspension system allowed for adjustable ground clearance, enhancing both cornering and obstacle clearance. The GLS 63's double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension provided precise handling, while multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowed for customizable driving experiences. The E-Active Body Control option further enhanced ride quality, making the GLS feel more maneuverable and composed on various road conditions.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, exclusively available with a hybrid powertrain, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total of 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, simplifying the drivetrain. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering smooth and efficient power delivery. Drivers could choose from four drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport.

The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, thanks to the Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform's front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension. Body roll was minimal, and the Sienna provided a comfortable and composed ride on the highway. The hybrid powertrain delivered impressive fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 36 mpg city/36 mpg highway/36 mpg combined for FWD models and 35 mpg city/35 mpg highway/35 mpg combined for AWD models. The 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack was tucked under the front seats, and Toyota offered a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty for added peace of mind.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The front-row seats featured door-mounted controls, while the third row, though less spacious, was still suitable for adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna excelled in cargo capacity and versatility. It could accommodate a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, and the sliding second row added flexibility for loading luggage and freight. Cargo measurements were 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity. The standard 60/40-split third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and each row had ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate with foot-motion triggers added convenience for busy families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the new MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a simple trackpad for control. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The voice-control system responded to "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," allowing for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The right pad controlled the infotainment screen, while the left pad controlled the instrument panel, offering customizable display options.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sienna included a one-year trial of Safety Connect and Remote Connect telematics services, a 10-year trial of Service Connect, and a three-month trial of AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system, a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display, and a 10-inch color head-up display. Limited and Platinum models could upgrade to a digital rearview mirror, and remote keyless entry with push-button start was standard.

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

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, Lane Tracing Assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition. The Sienna also had 10 airbags, multiple LATCH child-seat connectors, a rear-seat reminder system, tire-pressure monitoring, and an inflator kit. A spare tire was available, mounted in the cargo space for safety and convenience.