2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to its body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this familiarity also meant it could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-coloured trims and unique styling elements. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, featuring a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models offered a more aggressive interior with exclusive styling touches.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in its base GLS 450 form, presented a more understated look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. However, buyers could opt for more dramatic styling with the AMG GLS 63 or the Maybach version, which featured chrome accents and larger wheels. The interior of the GLS was luxurious, with options for reclining rear seats in the Maybach model and performance-oriented features in the AMG version. The standard interior, while basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a modern and sophisticated look. Overall, the GLS 450's interior was high-quality, though some might find it too subdued.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, with all-wheel drive as standard. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were criticized for lacking the engaging drive experience typical of BMWs. The SUV's suspension provided a smooth ride, and the cabin was well-insulated from road noise.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup produced 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the electric motor. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, was criticized for poor body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats were spacious enough for adults, and an optional third row was available. The split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height made loading cargo easy, though the doors did not open very wide, complicating access to the second row. The X5's cargo area was spacious, though slightly reduced in the plug-in hybrid model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a standard seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for access to the third row, providing excellent legroom. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power-folding seats and air suspension made loading cargo easy, though the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a digital gauge cluster, and a 10-speaker sound system. Additional features included voice recognition, Bluetooth, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, premium audio systems, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, though the touchpad controller was cumbersome. The GLS also included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and advanced driver-assistance features. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.