2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for a more modern appeal, was available in four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. Each model offered various trim levels, including base, Premium, F Sport, and Luxury, with base MSRPs ranging from $47,400 to $59,950, excluding a $2,145 destination charge. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was a focal point of this review. The NX's design, characterized by the signature spindle grille, was unmistakably Lexus, with refined styling details reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather or real leather with open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport variant stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a distinctive steering wheel. The minimalist interior design, while a departure from the previous model's button-heavy dashboard, integrated many functions into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. However, essential physical controls for stereo volume and temperature adjustments remained, and the electronic shifter was user-friendly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in its base GLS 450 form, offered a more understated look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions provided options for those seeking more visual drama, with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. The interior of the GLS, even in its basic form, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, enhancing the vehicle's modern appeal. While the GLS 450's interior was high-quality, it was perhaps too subdued for those seeking a more opulent experience. The SUV's design was practical, with thoughtful details like intricate speaker grilles and rectangular air vents. Overall, the GLS 450's interior was well-suited for a luxury SUV, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower and an estimated 61 kilometres of pure electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport variant felt taut and responsive on winding roads, while the regular NX 350 offered a softer driving experience. Lexus claimed a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.6 seconds for the NX 350, and observed fuel consumption was 10.6 L/100 km for the F Sport and 9.2 L/100 km for the non-F Sport. Despite improvements, the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals, and the NX was not suited for off-road adventures due to its limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The electric motor added 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in short bursts, enhancing the engine's performance. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth and ample power, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but slightly lower than some rivals. Overall, the GLS 450 offered a powerful and smooth driving experience, but the suspension's lack of refinement detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat due to the new dashboard design. The SUV was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better bolstering for the front seats, and thoughtful padding on the driver's door panel and centre console enhanced comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, with rear air conditioning vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, adding to the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14%, with 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version offering individual captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, and the standard bench seat could slide fore and aft, increasing legroom by 8.6 centimetres. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The air suspension facilitated loading and unloading by lowering the vehicle. While the GLS was well-equipped for transporting people and cargo, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen's reach and the centre console's grab handles.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen and an optional 14-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, Voice Assistant technology, and over-the-air updates. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and the Drive Connect service offered cloud-based navigation and Intelligent Assistant technology. Additional features included User Profiles, digital key capability, and a digital mirror. While the technology was impressive, the 14-inch touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was effective, but the touchpad controller was cumbersome. The GLS included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. The graphics were visually appealing, and the optional Burmester audio system and head-up display enhanced the technology offering.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver became unresponsive. Additional safety features included a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Optional packages added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and a panoramic view monitoring system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe system prepared the vehicle for a collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows. Optional features included a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and advanced driver-assistance features like Active Steering Assist and Evasive Steering Assist. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.