2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2025 Honda Pilot was available in various trims, including the Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Black Edition, with prices ranging from $55,486 to $67,236 in Canada. The Black Edition, which we evaluated, featured distinctive black wheels, blacked-out exterior trim, and black badges. Inside, it offered black leather seats with red perforation accents, red contrast stitching, and red ambient lighting. The Pilot's design aimed for a rugged appearance, especially with the TrailSport trim, but the Black Edition's custom look was more suited for suburban environments. While the interior boasted quality materials and thoughtful design, the digital driver display and infotainment system appeared dated, lacking a significant "wow factor."

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with Canadian prices ranging from $125,395 to $247,795. Our test vehicle, the GLS 450, featured 21-inch AMG wheels and a premium leather interior. The GLS's interior was similar to the smaller GLE but with high-quality materials and detailing. However, body creaks were noticeable on chilly mornings. The GLS offered leather upholstery as standard, with options for Nappa leather and various interior trims. The dual 12.3-inch displays provided a retro yet luxurious feel, and the MBUX infotainment system was user-friendly. The GLS's interior was comfortable, with standard ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the ambience.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the Pilot to tow up to 2,268 kilograms. It featured multiple driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The Pilot's AWD system offered torque vectoring, with up to 70 percent of engine output directed to a single rear wheel. While the V6 provided good acceleration, the transmission occasionally felt slow to downshift. Fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 14.1 L/100 km during testing. The Pilot's handling was predictable and secure, but an adaptive-damping suspension system would have improved ride quality.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, it accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. It had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. The Airmatic adaptive suspension significantly improved ride and handling dynamics. While the GLS's powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, Sport mode mitigated these issues. The GLS provided a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it easier to manage in urban settings.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seats and thoughtful storage solutions. However, the front passenger seat's limited adjustment options were a drawback. The second-row seats were roomy, with a removable centre section for easy access to the third row. The third row was habitable for adults, though not particularly comfortable. The Pilot offered a triple-zone automatic climate control system and a panoramic sunroof on higher trims. Cargo space was generous, with 635 litres behind the third row and up to 3,219 litres with both rear rows folded.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration available. The GLS was exceptionally comfortable, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain’s chairs. While storage locations were limited, the GLS provided a large glove compartment and covered cupholders. Cargo space was 355 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second row folded. The GLS's cargo capacity was less than some competitors, but it was sufficient for most needs.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with smaller display screens compared to rivals. However, it offered essential features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. The Pilot's voice recognition system was inconsistent, and the Bose audio system was adequate but not exceptional. The CabinTalk feature allowed the driver to communicate with passengers over the stereo speakers, and a small head-up display was included.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and online music access. The standard Burmester surround-sound system was satisfying, with an optional high-end audio system available. Additional options included a head-up display, rear infotainment screens, and a rear-seat tablet. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant that responded to voice commands.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with a comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control system occasionally failed to respond appropriately in traffic. The Pilot earned high marks in crash tests, with a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist technologies. While it lacked hands-free highway driver assistance, the GLS required active driver participation. The system occasionally struggled with curves, but it was easy to override. The GLS provided a smooth and refined driving experience, with parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aiding in parking.