2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of its gasoline counterparts. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels positioned at the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of models like the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback, and was introduced to the North American market due to the popularity of crossovers. Despite its SUV classification, the ID.4's design was more akin to a hatchback, similar to other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, particularly in its base GLS 450 form, presented a more understated look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. It avoided overly ornate grilles, offering a more refined appearance. For those seeking more visual flair, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions provided options like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. The interior of the GLS was luxurious, with options for reclining rear seats in the Maybach model and performance-oriented features in the AMG version. The standard interior, while basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall upscale feel of the cabin.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) model featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, although the ID.4 was tuned more for comfort than sportiness, with noticeable body roll in corners. Unlike many EVs, the ID.4 did not emphasize regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience with friction brakes.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, supplemented by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This system added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six configuration offered smooth performance. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, lacked refinement, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom compared to other EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing several EV competitors but falling short of gasoline models like the Honda CR-V. The ID.4 lacked a front trunk, prioritizing cabin space instead. The interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility, though rear visibility was hindered by thick pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and seats, which proved effective in cold conditions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat layout featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for third-row access, offering excellent legroom. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats up, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. While cargo capacity was slightly less than some competitors, the GLS made loading easy with power-folding seats and a lowering air suspension. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic features were less practical.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen with optional 12-inch upgrade, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 5.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The haptic touchpads, while visually appealing, were challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system and the ID.Light feature, which communicated information through a light strip. Despite some gimmicky elements, the infotainment system was well-positioned and user-friendly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive and difficult to use. The GLS included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Overall, the graphics were impressive, and the system offered multiple control options.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for RWD models. It included driver aids like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were also available, enhancing highway driving and safety.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems were optional. The GLS had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication.