2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibited subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. The headlights and taillights were sharper, and black fender flares adorned the wheel arches. The grille featured chrome inserts, adding a touch of elegance. The optional AMG Line package enhanced the sportiness of the exterior, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with an option to upgrade to 21-inch wheels. Inside, the cabin maintained the classic Mercedes-Benz luxury with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though it lacked the futuristic vibe of the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but the Bahia Brown seating surfaces in the test model gave the interior a dated look, reminiscent of a 1970s wood-paneled room.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sienna embraced the traditional minivan design with a few stylistic tweaks. Its trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines gave it a distinctive appearance, though it still resembled a minivan. The Platinum trim introduced new flower-petal wheel designs, replacing the previous split-five-spoke design. The Magnetic Gray paint color added a fresh touch to the top-of-the-line model. Inside, the Sienna's interior received updates, including a new woodgrain finish, though opinions on its aesthetics varied. The cabin was spacious and practical, with seating for up to eight passengers, making it a functional choice for families.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. However, the test vehicle was the new 450e plug-in hybrid, which combined a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite its power, the 450e was about a half-second slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to the weight of its 23.3-kWh battery. The battery allowed for an impressive 48 miles of all-electric range, with the test model even exceeding expectations at 55 miles. The transition between electric and gas power was seamless, though the driving dynamics felt more comfortable than sporty.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It offered 245 horsepower, which was modest for a vehicle seating up to eight and towing 3,500 pounds. However, the electric assist motor provided immediate torque, preventing the Sienna from feeling sluggish. The hybrid system prioritized fuel economy, achieving an EPA rating of 36 mpg in combined driving, though the test model averaged 26.3 mpg. The Sienna's handling was predictable but not particularly engaging, with a smooth ride and minimal body roll. The CVT's noise during hard acceleration was a drawback, but the overall driving experience was quiet and comfortable.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and soft-close doors added to the comfort. The Burmester stereo system provided an exceptional audio experience. The GLE could tow up to 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space was ample, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

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 popular among passengers. The third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably, and the hands-free power liftgate facilitated easy loading and unloading. Storage space was generous, with 33.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 75.2 cubic feet with the third row stowed. Maximum cargo capacity was 101 cubic feet, though the Sienna's design limited the removal of second-row seats, reducing flexibility compared to rivals.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system. While not as large as screens in other Mercedes models, the system was user-friendly, with a touchpad on the center console and voice command capabilities. The augmented reality navigation system was a standout feature, providing helpful overlays on the screen. The GLE also included an off-road page with detailed information and a transparent hood feature. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though connectivity issues were noted.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the Toyota Audio Multimedia (TAM) system. The Platinum model included a four-zone automatic climate control system, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The TAM system provided access to various connected services, with a digital assistant responding to voice commands. The JBL premium audio system delivered powerful sound, though excessive bass was noted. The four-zone climate control system and digital rearview camera enhanced comfort and convenience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted advanced driver aids, with blind-spot monitoring as standard. The optional Driver Assistance Package Plus added features like active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-change assist. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it top scores in crashworthiness and crash avoidance, with an "Acceptable" headlight rating for models with the Digital Light package.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Sienna's safety systems generally performed well, though the adaptive cruise control required vigilance in urban areas. The new rear-seat reminder technology was a thoughtful addition for families. The Sienna received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal crash-test result was four stars, with a three-star rating for driver protection in a frontal impact.