2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with enhanced proportions including a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, which added to its elegance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and more modern exterior design. Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the MDX showcased high craftsmanship and quality. Inside, the MDX's cabin was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats offered comfort and adjustability, making the MDX a solid luxury vehicle.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more subtle and less flashy appearance compared to its competitors, with options for added visual drama in the AMG and Maybach versions. The AMG GLS 63 featured flared wheel arches and a muscular grille, while the Maybach version was adorned with chrome and power running boards. Inside, the GLS offered a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, framed by an upright dashboard. While the GLS 450's interior was high quality, it was perhaps too subdued for some tastes. Overall, the GLS provided a refined luxury SUV experience, though it lacked some of the flashiness of its rivals.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were enhanced, providing a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering five drive modes for varied performance. During test drives, the MDX impressed with its handling and performance, standing out among competitors like the Lexus RX L and Volvo XC90.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an electric motor adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, though the suspension lacked refinement, exhibiting poor body control over bumps. The GLS offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading. Despite the suspension issues, the GLS 450's engine performance was commendable, providing ample power for a luxury SUV.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating with comfortable first and second rows, and a third row suitable for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX provided flexible cargo capacity, with up to 2,690 litres of space with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate included convenient features like "Walk Away Close" and hands-free access. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for third-row access, offering excellent legroom. The GLS provided 355 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power-folding seats and air suspension made loading cargo easier. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System in higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, with built-in Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available in the Platinum Elite trim. The MDX also offered a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, though the touchpad controller was cumbersome. The GLS featured good-looking graphics and an augmented-reality navigation system. However, the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes, affecting user confidence.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The MDX included a low-speed braking control system and the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.