Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Toyota Sienna

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite its evolution into a more luxurious vehicle since the 2018 model year, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while keeping traditional design elements intact. Functional changes included repositioning the rearview camera and adding new A-pillar trim and a rear spoiler to the base G 550 models. The interior continued to exude opulence with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models featured sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Toyota Sienna, available in LE, XLE, XSE, and Limited trims in Canada, offered a range of prices from $52,350 to $74,148. The exterior paint options were limited to shades of white, black, grey, red, and blue, while the interior offered more variety with Macadamia and Grey upholstery. However, the interior was criticized for its use of cheap plastic, with the shifter and glove compartment door feeling flimsy. Despite these drawbacks, the Sienna's driving experience was likened to a crossover SUV, with a wide and low dashboard and centre console. The Sienna's practicality was highlighted by its power sliding doors and optional "super-long-slide" second-row captain's chairs, although the latter compromised third-row seating space.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models incorporated a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved the same in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also boasted the new AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder gas engine, a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and an electric motor, producing a total of 245 horsepower. The Sienna's e-AWD system was available on the LE and XSE trims and standard on the Limited trim. While the powertrain provided adequate performance for urban and suburban driving, it lacked power for highway passing and mountain climbing. The Sienna's fuel efficiency was rated at 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined, but real-world testing yielded higher consumption figures. The driving experience was described as uninspiring, with a smooth ride but low handling limits. The brake pedal feel was criticized for being difficult to modulate.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Despite its size, the G-Class offered good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Toyota Sienna prioritized practicality, with features like a four-zone climate control system and power sliding doors. The optional "super-long-slide" second-row captain's chairs provided comfort but limited third-row space. The Sienna's third-row seat offered decent leg support, but the rear side windows were small, creating a cramped feel. The power liftgate and deep storage well behind the third row contributed to 949 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,129 litres with the third row folded. However, the maximum cargo volume of 2,860 litres was less than other minivans due to non-removable second-row seats.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard were dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display across the dashboard. The off-road menu provided useful information, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the driving experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were also expected to be standard.

The 2026 Toyota Sienna's base screen configuration included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch instrument panel, with larger screens available on higher trims. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple connected service plans. Wireless smartphone charging and a JBL premium sound system were available on higher trims. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system had visibility issues in daytime mode, but the optional voice recognition system performed well.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it was expected to include standard driver-assistance features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with high beam assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aids. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with higher trims offering a surround-view camera and parking sensors. The Sienna's safety ratings were mixed, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but lower scores in specific tests. It did not qualify for IIHS Top Safety Pick awards.