2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. Our GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all of which complemented its lustrous paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, enhanced by natural-grain Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents. This combination created a luxurious environment synonymous with Mercedes' reputation for rich detailing.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with a distinct identity. Our test model, equipped with 22-inch silver-finish wheels, showcased a more conservative design compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who found previous designs too bold. The TX's interior, particularly in the TX 350, offered a Peppercorn colour scheme with black-grained trim, creating a dark yet luxurious cabin. Despite the absence of a massage function in the front seats, the TX provided a comfortable and upscale experience, with heated and ventilated seating options available.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the GLS 450 to accelerate to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, offering smooth and seamless acceleration. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system provided a tailored driving experience with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive Continental Premium Contact tires contributed to its impressive handling and athleticism, while the brakes ensured smooth stops.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350, equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed an acceleration time of roughly eight seconds to 100 km/h, though the SUV felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's suspension offered a balance between firmness and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, though our testing showed an average of 13.8 L/100 km.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious and luxurious interior, with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wide range of adjustments. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, though accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome. The GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,400 litres with the seats folded. However, the AMG Line package's side sill trim could be inconvenient when entering or exiting the vehicle.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a comfortable and spacious interior. The TX 350 featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated seating options. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with a stadium-style bottom cushion providing leg support. The TX offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,746 litres with the seats folded. However, the second-row legroom was limited, and the storage slots lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and centre console could cause accidental changes. The MBUX system included outstanding natural voice recognition and augmented reality for navigation, complemented by a Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology.

The 2024 Lexus TX came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription providing cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system, offering impressive sound quality. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls and visibility issues with polarized sunglasses were drawbacks.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist, all of which operated smoothly and effectively. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems handled various driving conditions with subtle and smooth inputs, providing an outstanding safety experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not entirely transparent in operation. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds, though the SUV's response to vehicles cutting in was overly cautious.