2023 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, specifically the AMG GLE 53 Coupe, stood out with a design that combined sportiness and luxury in a sleek SUV coupe. The test model showcased Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork. This combination, while somewhat reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles, created an imposing presence. The interior of the AMG GLE 53 Coupe was equally impressive, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, Dinamica simulated suede, and brushed aluminum trim. This provided a sumptuous experience, enhanced further by ambient lighting at night. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment added a high-tech feel, although its minimalistic design might initially confound new users. However, with some acclimatization, the controls became intuitive and easy to operate. In stark contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shift the traditional minivan aesthetic to something more modern and practical. The front-end styling, inspired by a Japanese bullet train, gave it a striking appearance. Wheel sizes varied by trim, with the higher-end XSE and Platinum sporting 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Sienna didn't hold back, offering clever storage solutions and ample space. The top-tier Platinum trim featured high-quality brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents, adding a touch of elegance. The Sienna provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the middle bench seat in the eight-seater supporting three-across car seats. The second-row captain’s chairs, often equipped with extending ottomans and long tracks for sliding, provided flexibility and comfort.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class shone brightly in the performance department. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe came with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 429 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine’s EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power on demand and improved fuel efficiency. The real-world fuel economy was close to the EPA’s combined rating of 19 mpg, with a return of 18.5 mpg in tests. The GLE 53 Coupe featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system with variable torque distribution. With driving modes like Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road, this SUV offered a versatile driving experience. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension, AMG Performance brakes, and speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering ensured a responsive and nimble drive, whether in city traffic or taking on twisty mountain roads like the Deer Creek Canyon Road near Malibu, California. Toyota’s approach to the 2023 Sienna was quite different. Embracing a hybrid-only powertrain across the lineup, the Sienna was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with electric motors for a total system output of 245 hp. The system included a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and while it offered efficiency, the powertrain's performance felt underwhelming, especially given the Sienna's size. The Sienna excelled in its chassis and steering design, providing a surprisingly nimble experience. The light steering allowed for easy maneuverability in urban settings, and the minivan held its own on highways. Drive modes like EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport were present, though Normal mode proved the most practical for everyday use.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE-Class was designed to hold up to five people, though four was a more realistic and comfortable option, especially for adults. The multi-contour front seats, with their heating, ventilation, and massage features, ensured comfort on long drives, albeit with limited rear visibility. The cargo area was generous for a coupe, offering 27.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which expanded to 63.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. In comparison, the 2023 Toyota Sienna was a masterclass in maximizing interior space. Its numerous storage solutions catered to families, from the expansive cubby below the center console to the multitasking shelf running across the dash. At over 200 inches in length, the Sienna’s design provided a staggering amount of cargo space. It delivered 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 75.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 101 cubic feet of total cargo space. Though it couldn’t match the total cargo capacity of competitors like the Honda Odyssey due to its non-removable middle row, the sliding captain’s chairs enhanced passenger comfort, even for adults seated in the third row.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class featured the sophisticated Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, included on dual 12.3-inch screens. This setup offered navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the Mercedes Me services. The intuitive system allowed for natural voice recognition with the “Hey Mercedes” function, matching the capabilities of assistants like Alexa and Google. Though the center console’s touchpad could be a slight nuisance, the overall user experience was positive. Optional upgrades included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an enhanced Burmester 3D surround-sound system. The technology in the 2023 Toyota Sienna felt dated compared to the Mercedes. While it included essential features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, the need for wired connections and a cumbersome interface detracted from its usability. Despite having physical buttons, which some may find beneficial, the 9-inch touchscreen appeared small compared to modern standards. However, the Sienna’s infotainment system remained reliable, aided by its seven USB ports and a 12-speaker JBL audio system on higher trims.

Safety was a strong suit for both vehicles. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class came equipped with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The unique Pre Safe Sound feature aimed to protect hearing during a collision. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, making urban and highway driving safer and less stressful. Though specific crash-test data for the GLE Coupe was unavailable, the standard GLE received top ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA. The 2023 Toyota Sienna matched Mercedes in safety offerings. It included an array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning with steering assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna earned a 5-star rating from NHTSA and retained its 2022 Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS.