2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the original GL-Class. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS found its niche among affluent families seeking a spacious, comfortable alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. Despite its size, the GLS appeared more streamlined than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and clever design elements. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of standard and optional features to enhance comfort and convenience.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC40 embraced a more traditional SUV design, with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch. It shared familial styling cues with other Volvo models, such as the distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The XC40 Recharge, the electric variant, featured subtle differences like a blanked-off grille and model-specific alloy wheels. Built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture, the XC40 offered a minimalist interior with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The design was cohesive, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending seamlessly into the overall aesthetic.

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 boasted 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 system. 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. This powerhouse could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and a sophisticated steering-wheel-mounted control dial, enhancing its driving dynamics and comfort.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T4 produced 187 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the T5 offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring dual electric motors for a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The Recharge emphasized comfort and quietness, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. It also offered one-pedal driving, utilizing regenerative braking for most deceleration, and had a towing capacity of 900 kilograms.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided ample interior space with three rows of seating. The first and second rows offered generous headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults. The GLS had a standard seven-passenger configuration, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. Cargo space was impressive, with 355 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and a total of 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The GLS featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not as spacious as some competitors, offered clever storage solutions. The interior included a removable trash bin in the centre console, a bag hook in the glovebox door, and extra-large door bins thanks to the relocation of the Harman Kardon system's speakers to the dashboard. The XC40's cargo area was smaller compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the frunk was limited in size due to powertrain hardware. Despite these limitations, the XC40's interior design was practical and well-thought-out.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, characterized by a massive touch screen and a simple trackpad. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system included a voice-control feature activated by saying "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," allowing for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. This setup offered a customizable and tech-savvy experience, though it required some acclimatization.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. This system allowed Android phone users to sync their personal Google accounts for customization. It included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with top-notch graphics and menu layouts. The Recharge model also offered over-the-air update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. The absence of a start button in the Recharge model added to its modern appeal, as drivers simply needed to shift out of park to start the vehicle.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional safety technologies encompassed lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with the gasoline model earning the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. The XC40 came standard with a range of safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for more advanced driver aids. The XC40's safety features and ratings underscored Volvo's commitment to safety.