2022 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, while adequate in appearance, did not quite capture the stunning aesthetics often associated with the brand's sedans and sports cars. Its exterior design, with an aggressive nose and sloping hood, promised more than it delivered past the A-pillar, where it became reminiscent of its predecessors. Despite efforts to enhance its look with flat taillights and a contoured rear, the GLE struggled to match the pitch-perfect proportions of competitors like BMW or Audi. The AMG trim added a sporty flair, but it still fell short in a direct comparison with rivals such as the BMW X5 M or Porsche Cayenne Turbo. However, the interior of the GLE was a different story, showcasing a masterpiece of quality and design. The 2021 redesign brought a more streamlined and cohesive look, with a luxurious interior featuring a bold red and black colour scheme, high-quality materials, and innovative features like twin arching grab handles and expansive digital displays.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sienna embraced its minivan identity while incorporating SUV-like styling elements. Toyota's commitment to the minivan segment was evident in the Sienna's design, which featured a macho front end and cleverly concealed sliding door channels. The overall profile was assertive, with integrated styling details and a choice of wheel sizes up to 20 inches. Inside, the Sienna avoided the typical minivan feel with an uncluttered front cabin and abundant storage options. The spacious interior offered comfortable seating for second- and third-row passengers, with available captain's chairs and a versatile third-row bench that folded into the floor. The Sienna's design prioritized practicality and family-friendly features, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled as a multi-purpose vehicle, boasting a complex suspension and engine setup. With five suspension configurations, the GLE offered a range of options, from the reliable coil-sprung setup of the base GLE 350 to the advanced AIRMATIC system on the GLE 450, which featured self-leveling air springs and adaptive dampers. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control systems further enhanced the GLE's handling, allowing it to lean into turns and even bounce to free itself from sand. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured an electric supercharger for instant throttle response, while the hybrid EQ Boost system provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality. Despite its impressive engineering, the GLE's fuel efficiency was average, with the AMG GLE 53 Coupe averaging 14.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The GLE's performance was exceptional, with towing capabilities of up to 3,500 kilograms and a driving experience that felt agile and controlled.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, offered a hybrid powertrain as standard, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 243 horsepower. The Sienna's electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth power delivery and enhanced fuel efficiency. With selectable drive modes and a well-engineered suspension, the Sienna delivered better-than-expected handling for a minivan. Its fuel consumption was impressive, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving and AWD models slightly higher. The Sienna's hybrid system was complemented by a 288-volt nickel metal-hydride battery pack, ensuring a reliable and efficient driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models configured as two-row SUVs and an optional third row for additional seating. The second-row seats featured power controls for added comfort, while the Coupe body style accommodated five passengers. Cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe's design, however, limited rear passenger space and access due to its sloping roofline and large rear tires. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and offered intuitive features like seat controls on the doors and rocker switches for suspension settings.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed as a family workhorse, capable of accommodating a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's towing capacity was 1,585 kilograms, making it a practical choice for families. The interior featured a standard 60/40-split third-row bench that easily stored away, along with ample storage cubbies and cupholders throughout. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added convenience for busy families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen display featuring Interior Assistant, which responded to hand gestures for added convenience. The system offered a range of features, from seat massage settings to a Track Pace app for AMG models. The GLE's infotainment system was user-friendly, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. Additional features included a head-up display, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and a natural voice assistant that responded to commands. The GLE's technology suite was extensive, offering more electronic features than most customers would fully utilize.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was not available, the Sienna included a range of telematics services and Bluetooth hands-free functionality. Higher trim levels offered a 12-speaker JBL audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display. The Sienna's technology package also included a digital rearview mirror and remote keyless entry, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The GLE's Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems provided additional protection in the event of a crash, while its advanced braking and stability control systems enhanced overall safety.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna also received top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, LATCH connectors for child seats, and a rear-seat reminder system. Its Star Safety System provided additional safety features like stability control and traction control, ensuring a safe driving experience for families.