2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Volvo XC60

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 lavish alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design featured softened angles and lines, creating a more svelte appearance despite its size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen spanning nearly two-thirds of the dash, emphasizing its tech-reliant controls. 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, including advanced sound systems, climate control, and seating options.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look and a reworked grille with heated sensors for driver-assist systems. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, ensuring a consistent design language. The interior remained largely unchanged, featuring a clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and a new digital instrument cluster. The XC60's interior, while subdued compared to other Volvo models, offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel in the Inscription trim. Overall, the XC60 maintained its reputation for understated elegance and practicality.

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 of torque. 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 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The GLS's EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed, enhancing performance and efficiency. 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 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, offering 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque for the B5, and 295 hp and 310 lb-ft for the B6. The B6 also featured an electric supercharger. Both powertrains used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60's mild-hybrid system provided smooth power delivery, while the plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds. The XC60 Polestar Engineered variant increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. The XC60 prioritized comfort and luxury over sportiness, offering a quiet cabin and comfortable ride.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while less spacious, accommodated full-size adults comfortably. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both rear rows down. The GLS's interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom in both rows was average for the segment. The XC60 offered 611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1,410 litres with the seats folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, despite its somewhat pinched roofline. Large exterior mirrors further enhanced visibility, making it easy to drive without relying on driver aids.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. MBUX's voice-control system responded to "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. The system offered a variety of display options, enhancing the GLS's tech-savvy appeal.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The XC60 also offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and optional head-up display and premium sound systems. The new layout allowed for intuitive navigation, though Apple users might find the Google-based design less appealing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard 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, 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 2022 Volvo XC60, while not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, had received top safety ratings for the 2021 model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Volvo's driver assistance system, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring, was available as an option.