2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class maintained a conservative yet polished aesthetic that continued to appeal to luxury SUV enthusiasts. The modifications on the 2024 revision were minute, though discernible upon close inspection, such as the slightly redesigned headlights and taillights, and the Mercedes star logos emblazoned across the front grille. The test vehicle, a GLE 450e, was particularly attractive, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin bespoke luxury and meticulous attention to detail, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim, elevating the interior ambience significantly.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna worked hard to shed the typical minivan stereotype with its dynamic front-end styling, reminiscent of a Japanese bullet train. Although it came equipped with standard 18-inch wheels, the XSE and Platinum trims on FWD boasted larger 20-inch wheels, contributing to a more robust appearance. The various trim levels offered, from the base LE to the opulent Platinum, ensured there was a Sienna to suit a broad spectrum of preferences. The Sienna’s interior, especially in higher trims like the Platinum we tested, featured luxurious brown leather upholstery and elegant wood-grain accents, creating an inviting and comfortable environment for passengers.

The 2023 GLE-Class by Mercedes-Benz presented an array of powertrain options, catering to a wide range of preferences and requirements. The lineup included the GLE 350 to the powerful AMG GLE 63 S with a twin-turbo V8 engine that boasted 603 horsepower, proving its mettle as a high-performance machine. Our focus, however, was on the GLE 450e, a plug-in hybrid that performed impressively with a blended output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This model proved nimble for highway merges and urban navigation alike, requiring only 5.4 seconds to sprint from zero to 60 mph. Its electric mode was capable of highway speeds up to 87 mph, offering a quiet and efficient ride until the turbocharged engine took over.

Toyota took a different approach with the Sienna by standardizing a hybrid system across all models. The system integrated a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with multiple electric motors to deliver a net system horsepower of 245. Despite being less powerful than some of its competitors, the Sienna excelled in handling and agility. The steering was light, making it simple to maneuver through tight city spaces and enjoyable for highway cruising. However, the powertrain's drone under heavy acceleration and the limitations of the CVT highlighted the performance gap compared to more robust SUVs and hybrids like the GLE 450e.

Inside the GLE-Class, passengers were greeted with expanses of space, particularly in the first two rows, and luxury touches throughout. The light beige interior of our tester amplified the feeling of openness. The GLE provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which was ample, although not class-leading. The addition of an optional third row expanded its versatility but was best suited for children due to its size restrictions.

The Sienna, true to minivan form, excelled in functional interior design and cargo capacity. With an innovative use of space, the Sienna offered 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which extended to a massive 101 cubic feet with the second row stowed. Although the Sienna's second-row seats did not remove entirely, they allowed enough flexibility for most practical needs, and their sliding feature offered commendable legroom in all rows.

Technologically, the GLE-Class shined with its dual 12.3-inch screens for the MBUX system, which accepted inputs via touch, a central touchpad, and touch-sensitive steering wheel controls. The integration of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto complemented the advanced features like the augmented reality navigation system, which projected navigational aids directly onto the road view.

Conversely, the Sienna's technology felt a generation behind, relying on Toyota's older infotainment system. Though functional, it lacked the modern flair and integration seen in the GLE. Physical buttons, while useful, underscored the system's dated nature. Nonetheless, the system was sturdy, and the available 12-speaker JBL sound system performed well, contributing to an enjoyable auditory experience in the cabin.