2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Lexus RX

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 or Lexus LX. For those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 model offered flared wheel arches and a muscular grille, while the Maybach version was adorned with chrome accents and a traditional hood ornament. 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, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, showcased a modern design with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase than its predecessor. The signature spindle-style grille was well-integrated, complemented by upswept body sides and a light-blade taillight design. The RX's exterior was distinct yet familiar, ensuring it stood out without being overly aggressive. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary cabin with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The interior materials ranged from NuLuxe artificial leather to genuine leather, with options for textured black plastic, real wood, and aluminum trims, providing a sophisticated and comfortable environment.

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, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts, enhancing performance. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered smoothness and balance, 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. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kg, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same level of refinement. During testing, the RX 350 Executive trim displayed occasional torque steer and excessive body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim, with its adaptive suspension, offered a more composed ride. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.3 seconds, with fuel economy estimates of 9.9 L/100 km in combined driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward, providing access to the third row and increasing legroom by 8.6 cm. The GLS boasted 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 by lowering the vehicle, while power-folding seats and a power tailgate added convenience.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided a comfortable interior with options for semi-aniline leather upholstery and sport seat bolsters in the F Sport 3 package. The RX 350 Executive trim featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat offered good leg support and legroom, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The RX's cargo area measured 838 litres with the second row in place, expanding to 1,308 litres with the rear seat folded, offering improved but still modest space for the segment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped 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 particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive, making it difficult to use. The GLS also included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio, along with various connected services. The Drive Connect plan included Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, which generally performed well, though it occasionally provided irrelevant results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and streaming services like Apple Music were integrated. The RX's infotainment system was a significant improvement over previous versions, though it lacked the ability to display multiple data panels simultaneously.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system were optional. The GLS also included Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2023 Lexus RX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also introduced semi-autonomous driving technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist. While LSS+ 3.0 was generally effective, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less intuitive. The system's reliance on the HUD for certain functions posed challenges for drivers wearing polarized sunglasses.