2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Toyota Sienna

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a familiar design, ensuring it didn't stray too far from its predecessor. Designers made subtle changes, such as repositioning door handles and updating the headlights to a more aggressive look. The taillights were connected by a trim piece, and the rear design saw a reduction in chrome. The Coupe version retained its distinctive sloping profile, with a fastback roof. Inside, the GLC boasted a luxurious interior with two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash, filled with screens and ambient lighting, offering a gadget-heavy experience typical of Mercedes.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Sienna presented a distinctive look with sleek front and rear fascias and vibrant color options. The XSE trim featured sporty elements like a black metallic mesh grille and 20-inch dark wheels. The Woodland Edition offered off-road readiness with roof rails and increased ground clearance. Inside, the Sienna provided practical features like a lower storage pass-through and multiple cupholders. The second-row captain’s chairs offered ample legroom, though they couldn't be removed, limiting cargo space. The third row was accessible and spacious, with reclining seats and window shades.

The Mercedes GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous V6 model. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, offering a sporty drive with rougher shifts. The base GLC 300 delivered 255 horsepower, with options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The AMG models included performance enhancements like four-wheel steering and a firmer suspension, appealing to driving enthusiasts.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, a hybrid minivan, combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 245 horsepower. It offered a smooth but sluggish ride, with a CVT that was noisy at times. The Sienna excelled in city driving with modes like Normal, Eco, and EV, though it lacked the performance of competitors with V6 engines. The steering was light, and visibility was excellent, making it a practical choice for families.

The GLC’s cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. It offered heated and memory front seats, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. Cargo space in the SUV was 21.9 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Coupe offered less space, with 17.6 cubic feet, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet.

The Sienna featured practical storage solutions, like a lower pass-through and multiple cupholders. The second-row seats offered 40 inches of legroom and an ottoman in upper trims, though they couldn't be removed. The third row was spacious, with 39 inches of legroom when the second row was moved forward. The rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 101 cubic feet with seats folded.

The GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added navigation, a Burmester sound system, and a head-up display. Optional tech included an Advanced USB package.

The Sienna used an older infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included physical buttons for common functions and a standard Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional features included a JBL stereo and a rear-camera mirror. USB ports were plentiful, and a 1500-watt inverter was available.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard features like active brake assist and Pre-Safe. Optional safety features required the Driver Assistance Package.

The Toyota Sienna came with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control. It received a four-star rating from NHTSA for frontal crash protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS rated it “Good” in crashworthiness.