2021 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of elegance and practicality. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity ensured its survival. The GLS, with its three rows and comfortable interior, became a family-friendly alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The transition from "GL" to "GLS" occurred during the second generation, marking its evolution. Despite its size, the GLS appeared less bulky than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and lines. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, highlighting its tech-centric design. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 included remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, adding features like ventilated seats, a surround-view camera, and massaging front seats. The AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive styling and a performance-inspired interior, including a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid aimed to redefine the minivan's image with its SUV-like styling. Its wide grille and sleek LED headlamps gave it a modern look, while the redesigned sliding side doors added an assertive stance. The Sienna's exterior was characterized by superb fit and finish, with alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. Inside, the Sienna emphasized width with horizontal lines, offering a comfortable seating position higher than a sedan's. The dashboard was simple and uncluttered, with controls conveniently placed below the infotainment screen. The centre console featured a gear selector, cupholders, and a large storage compartment. The second and third-row seats were comfortable for adults, with the second row offering flexibility with sliding captain's chairs or a bench seat. The Sienna's interior was designed for practicality, with ample storage and a focus on passenger comfort.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse was paired with a nine-speed AMG twin-clutch automatic transmission, providing exhilarating performance. The GLS 63 could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed, enhancing performance and efficiency. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, allowing for adjustable ground clearance and precise handling. Multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid marked Toyota's first hybrid minivan, featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. Front-wheel drive was standard, with an all-wheel drive option available across all trims. The AWD system utilized a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, providing 54 hp and 89 lb-ft of torque. The Sienna employed an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), prioritizing smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency. While the CVT offered a less engaging driving experience, it contributed to the Sienna's impressive fuel economy. The Sienna Hybrid featured four selectable drive modes: Normal, EV, Eco, and Sport. Handling was improved with a new TNGA front suspension and independent rear trailing arm suspension, minimizing body roll and ensuring a comfortable ride. The Sienna Hybrid achieved excellent fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 6.6 L/100 km in the city and 6.5 L/100 km on the highway, while AWD models achieved 6.8 L/100 km city and 6.6 L/100 km highway.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. Optional second-row captain's chairs reduced seating capacity to six. The front and second-row seats provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS featured a power-folding third row, expanding cargo space from 355 litres to 1,209 litres with the third row folded. With both the second and third rows folded, total cargo space reached 2,400 litres. The GLS excelled in providing storage solutions, with numerous cubbies and compartments for personal items. The centre console, though not large enough for a purse, offered additional storage options.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna prioritized convenience and functionality, with a standard third-row 60/40-split bench that easily stored away into the floor. The second row could slide up to 63.5 centimetres, allowing for flexible legroom and easy access to the third row. The Sienna's cabin featured 16 cupholders and ample storage cubbies, ensuring practicality for all passengers. The Sienna excelled in cargo handling, capable of accommodating a full four-by-eight sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Cargo space measured 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna's hybrid battery was cleverly positioned under the front seats, preserving cargo space. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate, responsive to kick motions, added to the Sienna's family-friendly features.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, characterized by a massive touch screen and a simple trackpad. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. MBUX's voice-control system allowed for complex commands, enhancing user convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system offered customizable display options, though it required a learning curve for new users.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid was equipped with a nine-inch touchscreen, providing access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available SiriusXM. The Sienna offered a range of connectivity features, including Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service Connect. Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming were standard across all trims. Higher trims featured Qi-compatible charging and a 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt AC outlet. Audio systems ranged from a six-speaker stereo to a Premium Audio + JBL package with 12 speakers. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display, remote, and wireless headphones. The driver enjoyed a colour multi-information display, with digital rearview mirrors available on higher trims. Remote keyless entry and push-button start were standard, with the Smart Key System available on higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Available safety technologies encompassed lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The GLS was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering dynamic radar adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and a pre-collision system with bicyclist and pedestrian detection. The Star Safety System included enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sienna was equipped with 10 airbags and LATCH connectors for child seats. A tire pressure monitoring system was standard, with an inflator kit included. The Sienna received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a Five-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA.