2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2021 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, presenting a more SUV-like appearance. Its wide grille and horizontally arranged LED headlamp arrays gave it a sleek look, while the sculpted sliding side doors and various alloy wheel sizes added to its assertive stance. The rear design managed to look wide and low, maintaining Toyota's high standards of fit and finish. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a higher seating position than a sedan and a simple, uncluttered dashboard. The center console was smartly designed with ample storage, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel added a touch of luxury. The second and third rows provided comfort for adults, with the second row sliding to maximize space and utility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered FWD or 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLB35 featured a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. The AMG GLB35 came with a starting price of $51,000, with options pushing the total to $57,250. The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs. The interior was beautifully rendered, featuring high-definition instrumentation and artistic air vents. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the quality in certain areas revealed its entry-level status. The road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors producing 243 horsepower. FWD was standard, with AWD available on all trim levels. The Sienna used an electronically controlled CVT, which, while maximizing fuel efficiency, tended to blunt throttle response. The handling was significantly improved with new front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, offering minimal body roll and a comfortable ride. The big news was its impressive fuel economy, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models rated at 35 mpg combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLB35 had an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and some throttle lag. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, making it a blast to drive on twisty roads. However, the firm ride and loud road noise made it less suitable for daily driving.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna excelled in convenience functions, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that stored away easily. The second row slid up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies. The Sienna could carry a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed, offering 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space 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 tucked under the front seats, not impacting cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and tailgate responded to kick motions, enhancing family-friendly convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a relatively roomy interior for a small SUV, with an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard equipment included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The rear doors opened wide, revealing comfortable seating for two adults. The optional third-row seat reduced storage space, making the GLB less suitable for those needing a three-row SUV. The power rear liftgate revealed a 22 cubic-foot cargo area, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded flat.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna packed a nine-inch touchscreen standard in all grades, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Connectivity features included Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and AT&T WiFi Connect. Higher trims offered a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers and a rear-seat entertainment system. The driver enjoyed a color multi-information display, with a 10-inch color Head-Up Display available on Platinum models. A digital rearview mirror was also available, enhancing visibility when the rear view was obstructed.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The optional Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included a navigation system with augmented reality. Additional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium audio system, WiFi service, and an MBUX Interior Assistant. The natural voice recognition and digital assistant worked well, though the navigation system's augmented reality technology was particularly impressive.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. The Star Safety System, 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system were standard. A tire pressure monitoring system and inflator kit were also included. Crash-test ratings for the 2021 Sienna were not yet released, but the 2020 model received high ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and other advanced safety features. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, Mercedes-Benz emergency call service, rain-sensing wipers, Attention Assist, and Exit Warning Assist. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.