2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minimal, with the most noticeable updates being the clever Mercedes star logos on the front grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, presented a handsome appearance. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of choices for both exterior and interior, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, available in various trims, maintained its distinctive look, reminiscent of the "swagger wagon" vibe. The Sienna featured sleek front and rear fascias and was available in vibrant colors like deep blue, red, or green. LED lighting was standard, with upper trims boasting Bi-LED projector headlamps. The XSE trim, with its sporty black metallic mesh front grille and 20-inch dark wheels, added a touch of sportiness. The Woodland Edition catered to off-road enthusiasts with features like roof rails, a tow hitch, and increased ground clearance. The Sienna's interior was practical, with features like a lower storage pass-through, powered side doors, and sliding second-row captain's chairs. The third row offered ample legroom, and the tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various SUV shoppers. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S, for those seeking high performance. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, providing a swift and smooth driving experience. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for silent highway driving at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, ensuring a comfortable ride.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, a hybrid minivan, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a total of 245 horsepower. While the Sienna wasn't designed for high-performance driving, it offered a smooth and comfortable ride, especially in Normal or Eco mode. The sport-tuned suspension and Sport mode button provided a slightly enhanced driving experience, but the minivan felt sluggish off the line. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributed to a smooth but slow acceleration. The Sienna excelled in city driving, with light and accurate steering and excellent visibility. However, for those seeking more driving pleasure, alternatives like the Honda Odyssey or Kia Carnival offered stronger V6 powerplants.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space and comfort for passengers, with seating for five and a light and airy cabin. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. While the optional third-row seat was limited to certain models, it was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added luxury touches like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, with features like a lower storage pass-through, powered side doors, and sliding second-row captain's chairs. The second row offered up to 40 inches of legroom, and the third row provided ample space for passengers. The Sienna's tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all occupants, and the rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space. With the third row stowed, the cargo space expanded to 75 cubic feet, and folding the second row increased it to 101 cubic feet. The Sienna's interior was designed with family-friendly features, including cup holders, window shades, and a built-in vacuum cleaner in upper trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system was user-friendly, with touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience, although the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna was equipped with Toyota's older infotainment technology, featuring a nine-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the system included physical buttons for common menus, the backup camera's grainy view was disappointing for a 2024 model. The Sienna offered a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an optional 12-speaker JBL stereo system. USB ports were scattered throughout the cabin, and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt outlet was available. Optional features included an 11.6-inch rear-seat entertainment system and a 10-inch color head-up display.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. These safety systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of protection.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which included lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, road sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The Sienna received high safety ratings, with the NHTSA awarding it four out of five stars for frontal crash and rollover protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS rated it "Good" in crashworthiness and "Average" in front crash prevention.