2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lexus RX

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 families seeking a lavish alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. Despite its size, the GLS appeared more svelte due to its softened angles and lines. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-reliant nature. The GLS was available in three trims: 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 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Known for its aggressive exterior styling, the RX stood out among midsize luxury crossovers. The F Sport models, in particular, added athletic flair with unique design elements and larger wheels. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with F Sport trims adding sporty touches like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the centre stack felt dated, and the driving position was challenging to perfect. Despite these drawbacks, the RX offered a comfortable and quiet ride, making it a pleasant companion for long journeys.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 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, boasted an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC AWD system. The AMG GLS 63 could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, showcasing remarkable performance for a large SUV. The GLS also featured an adaptive air suspension system, providing a smooth ride and agile handling.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All RX models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and additional drive modes, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Fuel efficiency was a highlight, especially for the hybrid models, offering competitive consumption figures.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided ample interior space with three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The first and second rows offered generous headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS excelled in cargo capacity, 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 rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2022 Lexus RX, in its standard two-row configuration, offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models, however, were cramped for anything beyond short trips. Cargo space in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row version offered only 210 litres with all seats up, increasing to 1,657 litres with both rear rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the cargo area had a high load-in height due to its sporty design.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, highlighted by a massive touch screen and a digital instrument panel. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. MBUX's voice-control system allowed for complex commands, enhancing user convenience. The touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel controlled both the infotainment and instrument panel, offering a customizable display experience.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was ergonomically challenging. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, though the latter was difficult to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including USB ports, smartphone integration, wireless charging, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options, such as remote engine start and vehicle settings.

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 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 RX featured the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it missed the top-tier designation due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with a five-star rating in side crash tests.