2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. Our GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all of which complemented its lustrous paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, enhanced by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents. This combination of materials and design elements created an inviting and luxurious environment, characteristic of Mercedes interiors.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sienna attempted to break away from the traditional minivan aesthetic with its trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines. Despite these efforts, the Sienna retained its minivan identity, offering practicality over style. The Platinum package introduced new flower-petal wheel designs and a Magnetic Grey paint colour, adding a touch of flair. Inside, the Sienna's interior updates included a new woodgrain finish, though opinions on its appeal varied. The Sienna prioritized functionality, with seating for up to eight and a focus on practicality, making it a reliable choice for families.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup provided smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS 450 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, offering driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. With a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms and a fuel economy rating of 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres, the GLS 450 balanced performance and efficiency. Its adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its impressive handling and braking capabilities.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a CVT. With a net horsepower of 245, the Sienna offered adequate performance for city driving and highway cruising. Its hybrid system prioritized fuel economy, achieving an official rating of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres. However, during testing, it averaged 8.9 L/100 km. The Sienna's handling was predictable but lacked excitement, with a smooth ride and quiet cabin. While not designed for spirited driving, the Sienna excelled in providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a commanding view of the road. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, while the third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 355 litres behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,400 litres behind the front seats. However, accessing the third row was cumbersome, and interior storage space was limited.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna prioritized practicality with power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs with ottoman-style leg rests were a hit with passengers, and the third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably. The Sienna offered generous storage space, with 949 litres behind the third row and a maximum cargo capacity of 2,860 litres. However, the lack of removable second-row seats limited its cargo versatility compared to rivals. The Sienna's design focused on ease of use, with sliding side doors and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and centre console caused occasional frustration. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided impressive audio quality. MBUX's natural voice recognition and augmented reality navigation were standout features, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna's higher-spec models came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The system offered connected services with varying subscription periods, including a digital assistant for voice commands. The Sienna Limited featured a 12-speaker JBL audio system, though sound quality was muddied by excessive bass. The four-zone climate control system and digital rearview camera added convenience, while the HUD and surround-view camera enhanced safety and visibility.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) provided smooth and subtle operation, with effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems handled various driving conditions with ease, offering a seamless and reassuring driving experience.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. While not the latest version, TSS 2.0 offered reliable performance without intrusive interventions. The Sienna's new rear-seat reminder technology added an extra layer of safety for families. However, its crash-test ratings revealed some shortcomings, with a three-star rating for driver protection in frontal impacts.