2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated aesthetic in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the ostentatious chrome and gaudy grilles seen in some of its competitors. The AMG GLS 63 model, however, offered a more dynamic appearance with flared wheel arches, a robust grille, and distinctive exhaust tips. The Maybach version took luxury to another level with extensive chrome detailing, a traditional hood ornament, and optional 23-inch wheels. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting, even in its more basic configurations. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 featured subtle styling updates, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a more aerodynamic rear bumper design. The ID.4's design was distinctively EV, lacking the traditional SUV profile and ground clearance, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. However, it was based on VW’s MEB platform, designed specifically for EVs, promising versatility and modularity. The interior carried a minimalist design with quality materials, and the base model offered leatherette upholstery with recycled fibres, maintaining a sense of quality across the range.

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 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, although the air suspension's body control left room for improvement. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a new 62-kWh battery pack for the base model and an 82-kWh pack for the Pro model. The single-motor RWD models delivered 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, while the dual-motor AWD version increased output to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's handling was comfortable but allowed for noticeable body roll, and its regenerative braking system offered a more traditional driving experience without full one-pedal driving capability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. The second-row seats could slide to increase legroom, and the GLS boasted 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 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 the centre console's design.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4's towing capacity was 1,000 kilograms for RWD models and 1,225 kg for AWD models, suitable for light towing. Interior updates for 2023 included a conventional lid for the centre console and improved phone storage, enhancing functionality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system included voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads, with voice recognition being the most user-friendly. The GLS also had an augmented-reality navigation feature, although the navigation system's reliability was questioned.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen and software updates for improved responsiveness. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a user interface that included haptic touchpads on the dashboard and steering wheel. The ID.4 also featured ID.Light, an ambient lighting system that provided visual cues for navigation, although it could be easily overlooked.

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 features. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was expected to perform well in IIHS tests, similar to the 2022 model. It included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW’s Travel Assist 2.0. New for 2023 were Park Assist Plus and an automated lane-change feature.