2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a range of trims, including the standard and Type S versions, with various packages enhancing its equipment levels. In Canada, the standard MDX was available in base, Tech, A-Spec, and Platinum Elite packages, while the Type S came in standard or Ultra trims. Prices ranged from $59,300 to $84,400, excluding a $2,375 destination charge. The Type S Ultra trim, tested in the US, featured a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, setting a high expectation for luxury and performance. However, some design elements, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made controls difficult to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear was occasionally confusing. Despite these minor issues, the MDX Type S was a fundamentally attractive luxury SUV.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality in its design, which, while bordering on boring, aged well. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450, the most affordable version, came with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The test vehicle included AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, an Acoustic Comfort Package, and leather upholstery, making it a comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was distinguished by its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant increase over the standard 3.5-litre V6, but the Type S also weighed 130 kilograms more than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the performance upgrades didn't coalesce into a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brakes were difficult to modulate. The MDX Type S averaged 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, falling short of its official fuel consumption rating.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, provided smooth and seamless acceleration. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, making the GLS 450 lively from a stop. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450's maximum towing capacity was 3,500 kilograms, and it achieved a fuel economy of 11.8 L/100 km during testing. The GLS 450 delivered a sublime driving experience, with responsive powertrain and steering in Sport mode, and improved body motion control in Individual mode. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably under duress.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with the option for two or three second-row seating positions. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. However, the seats were firm and didn't hold occupants in place as expected. The MDX provided seven-passenger seating, with a removable centre section in the second row for easier access to the third row. The third row was best suited for children, as it was a tight squeeze for adults. The cargo area offered 461 litres of space behind the third row, 1,107 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded flat.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling that could be cumbersome when entering or exiting the vehicle. The front seats were comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage programs, and offered a commanding view. The GLS provided expansive second-row legroom and a standard panoramic sunroof. Accessing the third row was challenging, and the space was snug for adults, though children would be more comfortable. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,400 litres behind the front seats.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, operated via a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. While the TTI was designed to reduce distraction, it required hand-eye coordination and took up valuable console space. The MDX offered Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers provided excellent sound quality. The MDX also included a 10.5-inch head-up display with navigation instructions and driving assistance status.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and was fast and easy to use, though touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and centre console could cause accidental changes. MBUX included intuitive touchscreen operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality for navigation. The standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided impressive audio quality.

The 2023 Acura MDX came with a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The forward-collision warning system, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist operated smoothly and effectively. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist handled various driving conditions with ease, providing a transparent and aggravation-free experience.