2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in a market where minivans were becoming increasingly rare, as many manufacturers shifted focus to SUVs. Despite this trend, Toyota remained committed to the minivan segment, evolving the Sienna over several generations since its debut in 1998. The latest iteration, launched in 2021, embraced a more SUV-like aesthetic while retaining its minivan identity, thanks to its sliding side doors. The Sienna featured a bold front end and cleverly concealed door hinges, giving it a robust and assertive profile. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and practical cabin, with ample storage solutions and seating configurations that catered to families, including available second-row captain’s chairs and a versatile third-row bench.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes included new details like the Mercedes star logos on the grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e model, in particular, boasted a striking Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the GLE exuded luxury with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour and trim options, ensuring a high-quality and sophisticated cabin experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was powered exclusively by a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to deliver 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly agile for a minivan, thanks to its Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform. Fuel consumption was impressive, with Natural Resources Canada rating the FWD model at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, while the AWD variant achieved 6.7 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e plug-in hybrid, which combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total output of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This power was managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, enabling the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was rated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a 77-kilometre electric-only range. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the GLE's suspension provided a smooth and comfortable ride, even on challenging road surfaces.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed to be a versatile family vehicle, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for cargo loading, with cargo space measuring 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also boasted a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added convenience, especially when hands were full.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt open and airy, aided by the light beige upholstery. Cargo space behind the second row was 630 litres, which was competitive within its class. The GLE offered a range of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and was best suited for children.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. However, it lacked wireless connectivity for these features. The Sienna offered a range of telematics services, Bluetooth connectivity, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. Higher trims included a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a digital rearview mirror.

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 touchscreen. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved voice command system. Optional features included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The GLE's technology suite was comprehensive, though it required some acclimation to fully utilize its capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, pre-collision system, and more. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors, and a rear-seat reminder system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a robust array of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and active lane-keep assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, with crash tests for the 2024 model pending.