2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a more refined and svelte appearance compared to its predecessors. Originally known as the GL-Class, the GLS evolved to cater to affluent families seeking a comfortable and spacious alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. The exterior design featured softened angles and lines, creating a visually smaller presence despite its large size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen spanning nearly two-thirds of the dash, emphasizing its tech-reliant nature. Available in three levels—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 premium sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its distinctive styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. The GV70 featured the brand's signature two-line lighting design, creating an illusion of a contiguous circle around the vehicle. Its unique styling included a sculpted hood, dark chrome finishes, and a cross-hatched matrix pattern on the Sport grades. The GV70 offered six grades in Canada, with two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6. Genesis customers enjoyed the ability to order directly from the company, allowing for creative exterior and interior colour combinations. The GV70's cabin featured an elliptical theme inspired by airplane wings, with premium materials and unique upholstery configurations. Despite some plastic elements, the overall interior quality was impressive, offering a luxurious and comfortable experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options, starting with the entry-level GLS 450, which 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. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, equipped with a hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, boasted an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The 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 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 adaptive air suspension system provided a smooth ride, while multiple drive modes allowed for customizable driving experiences.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the test unit featuring a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine rated at 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. This engine positioned the GV70 as a strong competitor against mid-level performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M40i and Audi SQ5. The GV70's eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive system prioritized the rear axle, transferring up to 50% of available torque to the front wheels when needed. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential, allowing for up to 100% of torque to be sent to a single rear wheel. The GV70 offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ drive modes, with Sport mode providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. The electronically controlled suspension system used a forward camera to detect road changes, maintaining a balance between comfort and feedback. The GV70's tight turning radius was a bonus in urban environments.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided three rows of spacious seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The front and second-row occupants enjoyed ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults. 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 power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality. The GLS's interior featured luxurious materials and advanced technology, though some controls required a learning curve.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-focused design, with a tall centre console and intuitive controls within easy reach. The infotainment system's raised dial was user-friendly, and the climate controls provided haptic feedback. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated front and rear seats available on higher trims. The rear passenger space was enhanced by a panoramic sunroof and manual sunshades, though storage was limited. The GV70 offered 819 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor, adding to its practicality.

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. The voice-control system responded to commands like "Hey Mercedes," and the digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system offered a range of customizable displays, though it required some acclimation.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 impressed with its 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen, offering split-screen functionality and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The premium Sport Plus grade included a 3D digital instrument cluster, enhancing the driving experience with layered graphics. The Blind View Monitor system projected camera views onto the instrument cluster, and a fingerprint recognition system allowed for keyless vehicle start. The GV70 offered a premium 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system on top grades, with USB ports for both front and rear passengers.

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. Additional safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered ten standard safety features, including blind spot collision avoidance assist, lane departure warning, and forward collision avoidance assist. The rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row, while the Highway Driving Assist system provided lane centring and automatic lane changing functions. The GV70's safety systems were comprehensive, though official safety ratings were not yet available.