2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a strong family resemblance with the Nissan Armada, offering a good-looking, large SUV design that was neither too big nor too small. Its unique front-end styling featured a distinctive Infiniti grille, tastefully integrated LED lighting, and conservative chrome use, giving it an upscale appearance. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels added to its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin was furnished with upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats. However, despite its attractive interior, the QX80's style was considered outdated compared to its premium competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more subtle look compared to flashier rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS provided a luxurious feel with options like reclining rear seats and a performance-oriented interior in the AMG version. The standard interior, though basic by GLS standards, still felt luxurious with leather upholstery and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well integrated, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note, though it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and effective power distribution. The QX80's off-road capability was notable, with standard 4WD in Canada and a computer-controlled transfer case. It offered a generous towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms and managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

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. This setup produced 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six offered smooth performance. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, affecting ride comfort. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. Front-seat head- and legroom were good, though not as generous as some rivals. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to others in its class, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and slow-folding third-row seats were noted drawbacks.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version offering captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide to increase legroom, providing the best second-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with seats folded. The GLS featured one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with air suspension aiding cargo loading. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being hard to reach.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. The absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was a notable drawback, as it limited advanced driver-assistance features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The voice recognition system was praised for its ease of use, while the touchpad controller was found cumbersome. The GLS also featured augmented-reality navigation, though it occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Optional features included a Burmester audio system and head-up display.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication.