2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its more ostentatious competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a subtle design, avoiding the exaggerated grilles seen on models like the BMW X7. However, for those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced visual elements such as flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with features like leather upholstery and ambient lighting, although some might find the interior too subdued. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well integrated, providing a high-quality experience without feeling overly delicate.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, despite being a few years old, retained its distinctiveness with a clean, SUV-like design. For 2023, Volvo introduced subtle updates, including pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper. The XC40's minimalist interior design featured thin air vents and scalloped door elements, contributing to its modern aesthetic. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included premium options like a panoramic moonroof and a crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian. Overall, the XC40 offered a refined and calm driving experience, with a focus on practicality and comfort.

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 of torque available from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power for the large SUV, with smooth integration of electric assist. The GLS 450 featured standard 4Matic all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite its power, the GLS's air suspension struggled with body control, leading to a less refined ride. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine with 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The B5 models, equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The XC40's electric assist and turbo boost provided consistent power delivery, although the accelerator pedal required extra pressure for smooth starts. The XC40 Recharge offered a more spirited performance with 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The Recharge also had a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD model's 1,587 kg.

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 and fold for third-row access, providing excellent legroom. 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, with air suspension to ease loading. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space for its class. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom, with generous shoulder room enhancing comfort. Cargo space was 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than some competitors. The XC40 featured a power tailgate and keyless entry. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a spacious centre console. Despite its size, the XC40 was practical for everyday use, though larger Volvo models offered more space for families.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was the most user-friendly. The GLS also had an optional 13-speaker Burmester audio system and a head-up display. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, using Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. It included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen. The XC40 Ultimate featured a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and USB-C ports for each row. The system's graphics were appealing, but users preferring Apple devices might find the Google integration less satisfying. The lack of analog controls meant relying on the touchscreen for most functions, which could be cumbersome for some users.

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. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features such as lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The XC40 Plus added parking sensors and a 360-degree camera, while the Ultimate included adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The IIHS rated the XC40 highly in most crash tests, though it received an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall safety rating.