2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Nissan Ariya

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 confidently avoided an ostentatious grille, opting for a more subtle design. However, buyers could choose the AMG GLS 63 for a sportier look with flared wheel arches and a muscular grille, or the Maybach version for a chrome-laden exterior and luxurious features like reclining rear seats. The interior of the GLS 450, while basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall luxury feel.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Ariya boasted a modern and striking design, with a smooth, oval shape and minimal creases. The front featured thin LED headlights and an illuminated Nissan emblem, while the rear had a thin taillight spanning the width. Inside, the Ariya showcased beautiful craftsmanship with minimal hard plastics and a simplistic dashboard. Dual 12-inch monitors displayed information, and the absence of a transmission tunnel created an open and airy interior. The Ariya offered various trim levels, with both FWD and AWD options, and impressed with its spacious cabin, though the armrest heights were slightly mismatched.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power for the large SUV, and the inline-six engine offered smooth performance. However, the air suspension, while adjustable, lacked refinement, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was slightly less than some competitors.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya offered a range of powertrains, starting with the Engage FWD model, which had a 63-kWh battery and a 160-kW motor producing 214 horsepower. The Evolve e-4ORCE added a second motor for 335 hp, while the Venture+ FWD featured an extended-range battery and a 178-kW motor for 238 hp. The top-tier Platinum+ e-4ORCE delivered 389 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Ariya impressed with its quick steering and well-managed body roll, providing a comfortable and quiet ride. The AWD version offered enhanced acceleration and grip, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds. The Ariya's range was competitive, with the FWD model achieving around 350 kilometres per charge.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, offering a spacious interior with excellent second-row legroom. The cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate for easy loading, though the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya benefited from its EV architecture, providing a spacious and open interior. Both front and rear passengers enjoyed ample legroom, though rear headroom was slightly compromised by the moonroof. The Ariya offered 1,670 litres of cargo space behind the front seats, comparable to other electric crossovers. Nissan included innovative features like a powered bin under the centre stack and an adjustable centre console, enhancing the cabin's functionality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was the most user-friendly. The system included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and an optional Burmester audio system. However, the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya showcased dual 12-inch displays for driver information and infotainment, with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The Ariya integrated Alexa compatibility, allowing users to control smart home devices. The infotainment system was modern and user-friendly, offering a seamless experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time.

The 2023 Nissan Ariya featured ProPilot Assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available, but the Ariya's safety features were comprehensive.