2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Honda Passport

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the GL-Class, initially intended to replace the G-Class. However, the G-Class's enduring popularity led the GLS to cater to affluent families seeking a more practical yet opulent alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that belied its size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric nature. 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 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Passport shared its platform with the Ridgeline, Odyssey, and Pilot, resulting in a design closely resembling the Ridgeline. The Passport's new styling aimed to project a tougher image, particularly in the TrailSport trim, which was designed to appeal to off-road enthusiasts. While the TrailSport's enhancements were more aesthetic than functional, it still offered 20.5 centimetres of ground clearance and traction management modes for different terrains. The Passport was available in three trims: Sport, TrailSport, and Touring, each offering a range of standard features. The TrailSport trim, in particular, added unique design elements and interior touches like orange contrast stitching and amber ambient lighting, enhancing its appeal to adventure-seekers.

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 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 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. All engines included Mercedes' EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding extra power when needed and enhancing turbocharger response. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes allowed for precise handling and a smooth ride, making it feel more like a smaller car despite its size.

The 2022 Honda Passport retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The V6 was smooth and responsive, with a combined fuel economy rating of 11.3 L/100 km. The Passport's AWD system, Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management Four (i-VTM4), provided mechanical torque vectoring, delivering up to 70% of the engine's power to a single rear wheel when necessary. While the Passport excelled on paved roads, its off-road capabilities were limited, with less wheel articulation than some competitors. However, it offered a firm, communicative ride and agile handling, making it enjoyable to drive on everyday roads.

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.

The 2022 Honda Passport featured large doors and a low step-in height, making entry and exit easy. The front seats were comfortable, with adjustable armrests and good thigh support. The TrailSport trim added heated rear seats, while the Touring trim offered ventilated front seats. The Passport's interior was spacious, with ample room for second-row passengers and generous cargo space, measuring 1,430 litres behind the rear seat and 2,854 litres with the back seat folded. Numerous storage compartments and a power liftgate enhanced its utility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a large touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system's voice control feature allowed for complex commands, while the digital dash extended to the instrument panel, offering customizable displays. The system's learning curve was offset by its comprehensive functionality.

The 2022 Honda Passport's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TrailSport trim added satellite radio, while the Touring trim featured a navigation system and a premium audio system. The system's interface was straightforward, with shortcut buttons and a volume knob, though it lacked a tuning knob. The Passport's navigation system was less intuitive, prompting the use of Apple CarPlay for navigation. Wireless smartphone charging was standard in all but the base trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of standard driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech 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 2022 Honda Passport came with the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. However, some features, like lane-departure warning and lane-centring assist, were less refined, prompting drivers to disable them. The Passport received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though it fell short in some areas, such as front-passenger protection in a small overlap collision.