2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV presented a blend of new and old elements. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing its platform with the revamped C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year. The most noticeable change in the GLC 300 was its narrower taillights, though the overall design remained similar to the first-generation GLC, which had been in production since 2016. This continuity in design was not necessarily negative, as the GLC had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run. The interior of the new GLC received a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The returning GLC Coupe models maintained their exterior similarity, with a coupe-like roofline that distinguished them from the traditional GLC 300.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to shed its traditional minivan image with a front-end styling reminiscent of a Japanese bullet train. The Sienna offered a variety of trim levels, including the new 25th Anniversary Special Edition. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring high-quality materials and creative storage solutions. The Sienna provided seating for seven or eight passengers, with the option for three-across car seats in the middle row. The minivan's platform allowed for a spacious interior, with ample cargo space behind the third row. Despite its size, the Sienna was easy to drive, offering a nimble chassis and light steering feel, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive in Canada. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While the brake pedal effort was slightly soft, the brakes were effective, and the suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling. The GLC 4Matic Coupe continued with its older engine, offering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe provided a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and two front-mounted electric motors, plus a third rear-mounted motor for AWD trims, producing a combined 245 horsepower. The Sienna's powertrain was less impressive compared to competitors, with a CVT that struggled with acceleration. However, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendable, offering a nimble and fun driving experience despite its size. The Sienna's light steering feel was particularly advantageous for city driving, and it offered several drive modes, though the normal mode was recommended for the best balance of performance and efficiency.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and high-quality synthetic leather upholstery. The interior featured a large centre console bin, wireless charging pad, and well-sized door pockets. The GLC provided sufficient space for taller passengers in the front, while the rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, which was smaller than some rivals, but still adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and slightly limited rear headroom.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage solutions, with numerous cubbies, shelves, and bins. It featured a large open cubby below the centre console, a long shelf across the dash, and a big bin in the centre console. The Sienna offered three-zone climate control as standard, with four-zone available on higher trims. The minivan's platform provided exceptional space utilization, with 949 litres of cargo space behind the third row and a total of 2,860 litres. The second-row captain's chairs were highly functional, with extending ottomans and the ability to slide forward and backward, allowing for ample legroom in the third row.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a new interior layout with an 11.9-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, the screen's lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system provided excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna utilized Toyota's older infotainment interface, offering core features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface included physical buttons, which were practical but looked and felt outdated. The Sienna's technology was reliable, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it was expected to perform well based on Mercedes' reputation. The GLC 300 came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. Additional options included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna impressed with its standard safety technology, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna received a 5-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. While competitors offered some unique safety features, the Sienna's comprehensive safety package made it a strong contender in the family vehicle segment.