2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally known as the GL-Class, the GLS evolved to cater to affluent families seeking a spacious, comfortable ride. Its design featured softened angles and lines, creating a more streamlined appearance despite its large size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. 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. Optional packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX underwent a significant redesign, offering four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of this comparison. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The new model was larger, providing more passenger and cargo space, and introduced a minimalist interior design. The NX 350 F Sport variant stood out with unique exterior and interior elements, including sport-bolstered seats and a G-force meter. While the interior was more streamlined, some controls were integrated into the touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. Despite these changes, the NX maintained a high level of comfort and practicality, with thoughtful touches like padded surfaces for added comfort.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. 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. 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. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed. The AMG GLS 63 could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, with a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS featured an adaptive air suspension system, providing a smooth ride and precise handling, with multiple drive modes for a customizable driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 hp. The NX 350, with its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered all four wheels, with all-wheel drive standard in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport variant provided a more engaging driving experience, with a taut and responsive feel on winding roads. The NX 350's acceleration to 60 mph was estimated at 6.6 seconds, with observed fuel consumption of 10.6 L/100 km for the F Sport and 9.2 L/100 km for the non-F Sport. While the NX offered improved dynamics over its predecessor, it faced challenges in refinement compared to German rivals.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Seven-passenger seating was standard, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The third row was suitable for full-size adults, a rarity among three-row SUVs. 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 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 2022 Lexus NX claimed increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat. The NX was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for the front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo space increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touchscreen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station," and the digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system had a learning curve but offered extensive technology once mastered.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch touchscreen standard and a 14-inch screen optional. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and the NX offered a complimentary three-year trial of Drive Connect services. The system had some limitations, such as a lack of a tuning knob and difficulty displaying multiple data panels simultaneously.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Available 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 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with features like lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also had a standard blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology. Additional safety features were available in packages, such as rear pedestrian detection and a panoramic view monitoring system.