2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

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 elegance. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity ensured its survival. The GLS, with its three rows and plush interior, became a sophisticated alternative for families, rivaling the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. The transition from "GL" to "GLS" during its second generation marked a shift towards a more refined design. The 2021 model featured softened angles and lines, creating a sleeker appearance. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, 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.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80, on the other hand, showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements. Its body-on-frame construction, shared with the Armada, provided a robust foundation, while the front-end styling was distinctly Infiniti, giving it an assertive yet not overly aggressive look. Standard features included LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, with the ProACTIVE trim offering additional enhancements like auto-leveling headlights. The interior, while luxurious with wood trim and leather upholstery, retained a resemblance to the Armada, with similar dashboard and switchgear designs. Despite this, the QX80's cabin felt upscale, though it lacked the exclusivity some buyers might seek. The QX80's design and features made it a formidable contender in the full-size luxury SUV segment, appealing to those who appreciated its unique blend of style and functionality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a more robust twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission paired with the Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, the pinnacle of the lineup, boasted a hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generating an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse was mated to a nine-speed AMG twin-clutch automatic transmission, providing exhilarating performance. The GLS 63 could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, with a top speed of 280 km/h. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, standard across all engines, added an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed, enhancing both performance and efficiency. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes allowed for a customizable driving experience, ensuring a smooth ride and agile handling.

In contrast, the 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.6-litre V8 engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. This setup produced 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for highway overtaking and daily driving. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent front and rear suspension, offered a comfortable ride, though some shudders were noticeable over bumps. The ProACTIVE trim featured Hydraulic Body Motion Control, which helped limit body roll during cornering. Despite this, the QX80 felt less composed in corners compared to the GLS, with noticeable body roll during more spirited driving. However, its speed-sensitive power steering promoted a relaxed driving style. The QX80's 4WD system, with low range and a forward skid plate, provided decent off-road capability, though its size and wheel-and-tire combinations were more suited for on-road use. With a towing capacity of 3,855 kg, the QX80 excelled in hauling capabilities, surpassing some of its competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. Optional second-row captain's chairs reduced seating capacity to six but enhanced comfort. The first and second rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults, a rarity among three-row SUVs. The GLS excelled in cargo space, offering 355 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 also featured three rows, with a standard seven-seat configuration and an optional eight-seat layout on the ProACTIVE grade. The front seats offered 10-way and eight-way adjustability, though thigh support was lacking. Passenger space was competitive, with sufficient room in all rows, including the third. Cargo capacity was 470 litres with all seats in place, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with both the second and third rows down. While the QX80's cargo space trailed some competitors, its power liftgate and folding third row facilitated easy transitions between passenger and cargo hauling.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the advanced MBUX infotainment system, featuring a large touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX voice-control system allowed for intuitive interaction, responding to commands like "Hey Mercedes." The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel, offering a customizable display.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, comprising 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. The system was complemented by analog controls, though the user interface was not intuitive. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor enhanced visibility and safety, providing a modern touch to the QX80's tech offerings.

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, such as lane-change assist and adaptive cruise control, was available. The GLS was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system, ensuring a high level of safety.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade included Backup Collision Intervention and Blind Spot Intervention, enhancing safety. While the QX80's safety features were comprehensive, its ratings were not as high as some competitors.