2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 was often praised for its elegant design, which set it apart in the small SUV class. Its graceful curves and timeless styling made it look more like an entry-level luxury SUV, despite not having been redesigned since 2017. Inside, the CX-5 offered a blend of traditional and modern elements, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. While it lacked the large infotainment screens of its competitors, the physical buttons and knobs were appreciated for their practicality and ease of use. The interior was reminiscent of older Acura or Lexus models, providing a more upscale feel than similarly priced crossovers.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded luxury and sophistication, with a lineup that included the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600. The GLS 450, the base model, featured AMG styling details that added a sporty touch. The interior was crafted with high-quality materials and offered a range of comfort features, such as leather upholstery and ambient lighting. Despite some body creaks on cold mornings, the GLS maintained a refined atmosphere. The dual 12.3-inch displays provided a modern yet classic feel, and the MBUX infotainment system was intuitive and easy to use. The GLS's design and features were well-suited to its luxury price tag.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version producing 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The base engine accelerated to 96 km/h in about 8 seconds, while the turbo model achieved this in approximately 6 seconds. The CX-5 was known for its sporty handling, with minimal body roll and a firm yet comfortable ride. Its quiet cabin and responsive performance made it a standout in its class.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, 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, and featured an Airmatic adaptive suspension for improved ride quality. With a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, the GLS was versatile and capable. Its tailored driving experience and quiet cabin made it a pleasure to drive, even on challenging roads.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior was stylish and refined, but it fell short in terms of space compared to some rivals. While rear headroom was adequate, competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage offered more. The CX-5 provided 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded. The cargo area was practical, with easy-to-use latches for folding the seats. Interior storage was decent, with cupholders, door pockets, and a centre armrest bin. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a control dial and logical menus, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with an optional six-passenger configuration featuring captain's chairs. The GLS was exceptionally comfortable, with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, and a four-zone climate control system. Storage was somewhat limited, but the glove compartment was spacious. The cargo area provided 355 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second row folded. The GLS's interior was luxurious and well-equipped, with thoughtful features for passenger comfort.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a centre console dial. While smaller than some competitors' screens, its placement minimized distraction. The system was intuitive, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available. Higher trims offered wireless phone integration and a wireless charging pad. The CX-5's analog gauges felt dated, but a head-up display was standard on higher trims. The audio system ranged from a basic four-speaker setup to a 10-speaker Bose system on top trims, and remote vehicle monitoring was available through a smartphone app.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a navigation system with augmented reality. The standard Burmester surround-sound system was impressive, with an optional high-end audio upgrade. Additional tech options included a head-up display, rear infotainment screens, and a digital assistant activated by voice commands. The GLS's technology was user-friendly and enhanced the overall driving experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most categories and a four-star rollover rating. It performed well in IIHS crash tests, though its collision avoidance system received a Poor rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a 360-degree camera.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with nearly 40 safety and driver assistance systems, including Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist technologies. It featured parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a hands-on driver assistance system. While it lacked hands-free highway driving technology, the GLS's safety systems were effective and easy to override when necessary. The GLS provided a safe and secure driving experience, with advanced features to assist drivers.