2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

Minivans were seldom celebrated for their style, yet Toyota sought to change that narrative with the 2021 Sienna Hybrid. The Sienna's exterior gave off an SUV-like appearance, accentuated by its wide grille and sleek LED headlamp arrays integrated around the prominent Toyota logo. The reengineering efforts on the sliding side doors resulted in a nicely sculpted body line that swooped up from the rocker panels, enhancing the vehicle's assertive stance. Alloy wheels, available in sizes ranging from 17-inch to 20-inch, added to its style appeal. Despite its minivan classification, the Sienna managed to present a wide, low rear profile with Toyota’s hallmark superb fit and finish.

Inside, the Sienna aimed for a spacious feel with horizontal lines that emphasized width. The seating position was higher than a sedan's but did not quite reach the commanding height of a full-size SUV. The dashboard design was simple and functional, clustered around the upper center stack, while the center console featured smart storage solutions, including a handbag tray. The second and third rows were adult-friendly, and the second row offered sliding seats for additional flexibility.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 didn’t aim to outshine its competitors with over-the-top aesthetics. Its subtle approach, with less chrome than the Cadillac Escalade and a more refined grille compared to the BMW X7, carried an understated elegance. Higher-end models like the AMG GLS 63 and the Maybach GLS 600 added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome trim, and luxurious amenities such as reclining rear seats for Maybach models.

The GLS 450’s interior, even in its base form, delivered a plush experience. Non-Nappa leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and panoramic roof made for a luxurious cabin, while the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen displayed under a single glass panel added a modern touch. While relatively subdued in comparison to more ostentatious models, the GLS 450’s interior quality felt solid and refined.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota’s entrance into the hybrid minivan segment, utilizing a proven 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. It came with a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and an all-wheel drive (AWD) system driven by a separate rear electric motor producing 54 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which, while optimizing fuel efficiency, somewhat blunted throttle response. With four drive modes—Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport—the Sienna aimed to cater to various driving preferences. Handling improvements were notable, thanks to the new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, delivering a composed ride. Its fuel economy stood out, with FWD models achieving 36 mpg combined and AWD models closely trailing at 35 mpg combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a robust 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission, enhanced by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup churned out 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft provided by the electric motor in short bursts. Standard 4Matic AWD ensured drive stability. The inline-six configuration offered smoother operation compared to typical V6 engines, making it suitable for luxury applications. Despite a capable powertrain, the GLS's air suspension struggled with body control, resulting in excessive bouncing and leaning. Nevertheless, its towing capacity of 7,700 pounds was competitive, though it didn’t surpass some rivals like the Lexus LX and Lincoln Navigator.

Minivans excel in practicality, and the 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was no exception. It offered a high level of functional convenience across all rows. The standard third row consisted of a 60/40-split bench that easily folded into the floor, while the second row could slide up to 25 inches, facilitating access to the third row. The cabin featured an ample number of storage cubbies and cupholders, with a total of 16 cupholders (15 with a spare tire). Cargo versatility was another highlight; the Sienna could handle a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its cargo capacity measured 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. Despite the large hybrid battery, clever packaging ensured no compromise in cargo space. Additionally, power-operated side doors and tailgate added a layer of family-friendly functionality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered flexibility with a standard seven-seat configuration and an optional six-seat version featuring individual captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward, increasing legroom by 3.4 inches. While its cargo capacity was considerable—17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded—it didn’t quite match the larger dimensions of full-size SUV competitors like the Escalade and Navigator. One-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate eased cargo handling, and the air suspension’s ability to lower the vehicle further facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna came loaded with tech features, starting with a standard nine-inch touchscreen offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin. It included various connectivity trials, and upper trims boasted enhanced audio systems, including a 12-speaker JBL package, and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch screen. The driver benefited from tech features like a color multi-information display and a 10-inch color Head-Up Display on Platinum trims. Options like a digital rearview mirror and a 1500-watt inverter added to the tech-savviness, while remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted an advanced MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. Voice recognition, touchpad controls, and touch-sensitive steering wheel pads offered multiple ways to interact with the system. The user-friendly voice recognition system stood out, while the navigation system’s occasional hiccups were a drawback. Despite some ergonomic issues, the tech suite added substantial value, making it an appealing choice for tech enthusiasts.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This suite included full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, lane-tracing assist, a pre-collision system with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. Standard features also encompassed the Star Safety System, 10 airbags, and a rear-seat reminder system. Crash-test ratings for the 2021 Sienna were not available at the time, but the previous model received favorable ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver-attention monitor, and a surround-view camera system. It also featured specialized systems like Crosswind Assist and Pre Safe. However, advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more sophisticated driver-assistance systems were optional. No crash-test ratings from IIHS or NHTSA were available at the time of publication.