2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Toyota Highlander 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 confidently avoided the ostentatious grilles seen on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX, opting for a more subtle design in the base GLS 450 model. However, for those seeking a bit more flair, the AMG GLS 63 performance model offered enhanced visual drama with flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips. The Maybach version took luxury to another level with chrome accents, a traditional hood ornament, and massive 23-inch wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though 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, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling inspiration from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that lent it a rugged appearance. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line that swooped over the rear wheel arch, creating a somewhat disjointed look. The interior was unconventional yet less jarring, with an asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements. The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition featured unique bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric seat upholstery, which, while visually interesting, posed durability concerns. The Softex synthetic leather substitute, though not as convincing as genuine leather, was used throughout the interior. Despite some criticisms, the Highlander Hybrid's materials quality was adequate for its class, and its hybrid status made it appealing to a specific audience.

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 electric motor providing an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered smooth performance, 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 and in corners. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing a combined 243 horsepower. It utilized a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle when needed. The Highlander Hybrid's acceleration was adequate, reaching 100 kilometres per hour in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power, though the CVT's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration. The ride quality was comfortable, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in providing a quiet cabin, making it a pleasant choice for family journeys.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the second-row bench with captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for easy access to the third row, providing ample legroom. 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. While cargo space was slightly behind some competitors, the GLS made loading and unloading convenient with power-folding seats and a power tailgate.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned and adjustable, though the driver's door armrest was slightly out of reach. The interior offered ample storage options, including trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with captain's chairs that could slide and recline for added comfort. Access to the third row was facilitated by sliding and folding the second-row seats. However, the third-row seat was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. The Highlander Hybrid offered 453 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, 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. The GLS also included an augmented-reality navigation feature, though the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a larger 12.3-inch display available on higher trims. The system was responsive and user-friendly, with physical shortcut buttons for common functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were standard, and higher trims included a wireless charging pad. The Highlander Hybrid Limited and Platinum trims featured navigation and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision. Optional features included a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and advanced driver-assistance features. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received high safety ratings, achieving a five-star overall score from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highlander Hybrid's safety systems generally performed well, though some fine-tuning was needed for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.