2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the GL-Class, originally intended to replace the G-Class. However, the G-Class's enduring popularity led the GLS to cater to affluent families seeking a lavish alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design featured softened angles and lines, creating a more svelte appearance despite its size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-reliant controls. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the performance-oriented AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Odyssey retained a familiar design with subtle updates for the new model year. The refreshed grille and front bumper, along with standard LED headlights, modernized its appearance. The Odyssey offered four trim levels, with pricing ranging from $44,645 to $55,845, and an additional charge for non-grey or silver paint. The test model, a Lunar Silver Metallic with U.S.-exclusive Elite trim, showcased perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting, elevating its interior to a more upscale feel. The Odyssey's seating material and design improvements, along with new tri-colour floor mats, enhanced its practicality and aesthetics. The Touring trim's 19-inch alloy wheels and reduced chrome accents contributed to a more luxurious minivan experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes enhanced its handling and ride quality, making it feel more like a smaller car.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered 280 horsepower to the front wheels. While lacking all-wheel drive, the Odyssey's drivetrain provided smooth and effortless power. The engine's variable cylinder management improved fuel efficiency, with an average consumption of 10.8 L/100 km during testing. The Odyssey's new electronic brake booster supported adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow capability, enhancing its performance in heavy traffic. Despite its enjoyable driving experience, the Odyssey's brakes struggled under heavy use, indicating a need for improvement. The Touring trim's 19-inch wheels and brake modulation upgrades contributed to its handling, but the lack of AWD was a disadvantage in snowy conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, accommodating up to seven passengers, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The front and second-row seats provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS boasted 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both rear rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality, though the centre console was somewhat limited in size.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and storage, featuring a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats in most trims. The Magic Slide second-row seat layout allowed for versatile seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Odyssey offered 929 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,452 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome, despite improvements in their foldability. The Odyssey's storage solutions, including door shelves and a wireless smartphone charger, enhanced its practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system's voice control, activated by saying "Mercedes," allowed for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system's functionality was comprehensive once mastered.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connectivity options. Higher trims added navigation, a CabinWatch interior camera, and a CabinTalk PA system. The Touring trim featured an 11-speaker audio system, wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice recognition were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system, with a 10.2-inch screen and streaming apps, was less impressive to tech-savvy passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety options included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey improved its safety features with standard Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey's ADAS worked accurately, though not always smoothly. The Odyssey maintained its impressive safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with top scores in most crash tests.