2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a subtle design, avoiding the ostentatious grilles seen on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX. However, for those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced visual elements such as flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid maintained a similar appearance to its non-hybrid counterpart, with minimal distinguishing features apart from the badge. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model, however, stood out with its performance-oriented design, featuring a blacked-out grille and aggressive styling. The RX's interior adopted a minimalist approach, with fewer controls and an improved infotainment system. The RX 350h Luxury model boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance featured a sportier all-black interior. Despite its visual weight over the front wheels, the RX offered a comfortable and luxurious cabin experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the electric motor. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, although the suspension lacked the refinement expected from a luxury SUV. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was slightly less than some competitors.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined fuel efficiency of 6.5 L/100 km. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model, with its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, but consumed 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering provided a dynamic driving experience, while the RX 350h offered a quieter and more fuel-efficient ride. The RX 500h's infotainment system required navigating through menus to access driving modes, impacting its fuel economy.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration and an optional six-seat version with captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, providing ample legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 355 litres available with all seats in place and up to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, although some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen's reach and sun visor size.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable and luxurious interior, especially in the RX 350h Luxury trim with its ten-way power-adjustable front seats and premium leather. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model offered sportier seats with larger bolsters. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but reduced rear headroom. Cargo space was increased to 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded, offering significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and voice recognition. The system offered multiple control options, but the touchpad controller was found to be overly sensitive. The augmented-reality navigation feature was standard, although it occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system and digital voice assistant. While the Intelligent Assistant generally performed well, some inaccuracies were noted. The touchscreen's single-menu view and lack of a tuning knob were drawbacks, and the head-up display's visibility was affected by polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a range of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems were optional. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and a driver monitoring system were also included. While the safety features generally performed well, some issues were noted, such as the front cross-traffic alert's visibility with polarized sunglasses and the curve-speed reduction's reactive nature.