2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a stylish addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, it was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared the distinctive Mercedes-Benz styling DNA, making it difficult to distinguish from its siblings without checking the badge. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a 20-centimetre ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB was a modern marvel, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin boasted excellent fit and finish, with a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, continuing from its 2021 redesign, embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling. Its assertive profile, with a macho front end and cleverly re-engineered sliding door hinges, gave it a modern look. The Sienna's interior was designed to avoid the typical minivan feel, offering an uncluttered front cabin with ample storage options. The second and third rows provided comfortable seating, with available captain’s chairs and a spacious three-across bench in the third row. The third-row bench was a 60/40-split that easily stored away into the floor, while the second-row seats slid up to 63.5 centimetres for easy access. The Sienna's design focused on practicality and comfort, making it a strong contender for families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 gasoline engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The GLB's 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, standard in Canada, provided better handling in various conditions, with features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 L/100 km in the city, 8.9 on the highway, and 10.1 combined. The GLB's powertrain was a decent performer for its 1,765-kilogram curb weight, offering a linear and predictable power delivery.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The AWD system added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without mechanical complexity. The Sienna used an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was surprisingly good for a minivan, with minimal body roll and a comfortable highway ride. Fuel consumption was impressive, with estimates of 6.6 L/100 km in the city, 6.5 on the highway, and 6.6 combined for FWD models, and slightly higher for AWD models. The Sienna's hybrid system included a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack with a 10-year/240,000-kilometre warranty.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which affected the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline and a 40:60 split seat bottom that could slide six inches. In three-row models, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips for smaller adults. Cargo space varied from 764 litres behind the second row in two-row models to 1,755 litres with the second row folded. In three-row models, cargo space was 144 litres behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second row, and 1,605 litres behind the first row. The GLB's front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a family workhorse, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo space was generous, with 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also had a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. The third-row bench easily stored away into the floor, and each row offered ample storage cubbies and cupholders. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, with available foot-motion triggers, added convenience for busy families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, and smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium Package offered upgrades like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen, a Burmester Surround Sound System, and keyless go. Optional features included augmented reality navigation, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was not available, the Sienna offered a range of telematics services, Bluetooth streaming, and optional Qi wireless charging. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker setup to a 12-speaker JBL system on higher trims. A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display was available, along with a digital rearview mirror on select models.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a suite of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety options included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and a range of advanced driver assistance features. The GLB also featured the Pre-Safe system, which activated safety measures in the cabin during an imminent collision. However, it had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received 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, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The spare tire was conveniently located in the cargo space wall for easy access.