2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major update in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic exterior with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized features seen in many modern SUVs. Its dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. The interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place compared to the larger displays in contemporary SUVs. Nevertheless, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity, making it suitable for families.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more refined and luxurious appearance. The base GLS 450 model presented a subtle look, while the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS boasted a digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen housed under a single glass panel, providing a modern and cohesive look. The interior was luxurious, with options for reclining rear seats and performance-oriented features in the AMG version. Despite some ergonomic issues, such as the touchscreen being hard to reach, the GLS's interior felt high-quality and appropriate for a luxury SUV.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight of nearly 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured 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 from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power for the GLS, with a smooth and balanced ride characteristic of inline-six engines. The GLS had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to a less comfortable ride over bumps and in corners.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia offered a spacious interior with comfortable seating across all three rows. It featured a standard one-touch tilt/slide power moonroof and heated front seats, with heated rear seats available on higher trims. The Sequoia provided ample storage, with a cargo capacity of 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows down.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version offering captain’s chairs in the second row. The GLS provided excellent second-row legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase. 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 one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with the air suspension aiding in loading and unloading cargo.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system. The Sequoia's technology under the hood lagged behind competitors, lacking modern features like turbocharging or electrification.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was particularly effective. The GLS also had an optional 13-speaker Burmester audio system and a head-up display. However, the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. However, crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. It also offered Crosswind Assist and Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems. Like the Sequoia, crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.