2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

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. It was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in the market, leading the GLS to cater to affluent families seeking a comfortable, three-row alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS featured a sleek design with softened angles and a futuristic interior dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a premium sound system, with various option packages to enhance luxury and performance.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey was a practical choice for families, offering the convenience of sliding side doors and a spacious, comfortable third-row seat. Despite the minivan's image challenges, the Odyssey maintained a sense of style with its kinked sliding doors and clean design lines. The Touring trim, which we tested, featured quality leather upholstery, a low console for an open-concept feel, and ample storage space. The Odyssey's interior was designed for family use, with features like tri-colour floor mats and an onboard vacuum cleaner. The Magic Slide second-row seats provided flexibility for child safety and easy access to the third row, making the Odyssey a versatile and family-friendly vehicle.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission with Mercedes' 4MATIC AWD system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, boasted 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes provided a smooth and agile driving experience, defying its size and weight.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, offered 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Unlike some competitors, the Odyssey lacked AWD and hybrid options, resulting in a fuel consumption estimate of 10.6 L/100 km. Despite this, the Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with responsive handling and quick acceleration. However, its brakes tended to overheat on downhill grades, affecting performance. Overall, the Odyssey provided a pleasant driving experience, but its braking system required improvement for better safety and reliability.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. The third row, while less spacious, was still suitable for adults. The GLS offered 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 interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a centre console with butterfly doors, though it was not large enough for a purse.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and functionality, with wide-opening doors and a low seating position for easy access. The Touring trim featured quality leather seats, tri-zone climate control, and ample storage options. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for flexible configurations, enhancing safety and convenience. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, with 929 litres of cargo space behind it. Folding the third row increased cargo capacity to 2,452 litres, and removing the second row provided a massive 3,984 litres of space, rivaling larger SUVs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a large touch screen and voice-control capabilities. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While the system had a learning curve, it offered a comprehensive tech experience once mastered.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey's technology package, while comprehensive, was becoming outdated compared to rivals. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation, but lacked modern features like a larger screen or tuning knob. The Touring trim added CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems, a rear entertainment system, and a premium audio system. However, the Odyssey's infotainment and technology offerings needed significant updates to remain competitive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, automatic high beams, and crosswind assist. Optional safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured Honda Sensing as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, the system lacked refinement, occasionally issuing false warnings or taking abrupt actions. The Odyssey earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, but its safety features required improvement for a more natural driving experience.