2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV segment, borrowing styling cues from the CX-5 but enhancing them with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave the CX-50 a sportier and more athletic appearance while maintaining an elegant presence. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was further accentuated by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model, adding a touch of vibrancy. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a point of contention, as some found its placement awkward.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious and spacious interior, with seating for up to seven passengers. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured 21-inch AMG wheels and a premium leather interior, exuding a sporty yet refined look. The cabin was adorned with high-quality materials, and the standard ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof enhanced the overall ambience. Despite some body creaks on chilly mornings, the GLS provided a comfortable and quiet ride. The dual 12.3-inch displays, part of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, were well-integrated into the dashboard, offering a user-friendly interface.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, shared with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, provided a reliable and efficient driving experience. The CX-50 Hybrid's acceleration was comparable to the RAV4 Hybrid, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 to 8 seconds. The sportier suspension tuning of the CX-50 resulted in engaging handling, with minimal body roll and a firm yet smooth ride. The electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) replicated the feel of a conventional automatic transmission, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLS 450 accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, with the Airmatic adaptive suspension significantly improving ride quality. The GLS's powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, but the turbo-six engine delivered a sensational sound under hard acceleration. The GLS's tailored feel and composed ride made it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered ample front-seat space, but rear-seat headroom and legroom were less generous compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid. Personal storage was adequate, with a moderately sized armrest bin, cupholders, and door pockets. However, the CX-50's cargo capacity of 826 litres behind the rear seats fell short of the class average, with rivals offering more space. Despite this, the CX-50's cargo area was practical, featuring a standard power liftgate, a large storage bin under the cargo floor, and remote rear seatback releases.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided standard seven-passenger seating, with an optional six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain's chairs. The GLS offered exceptional comfort, 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 and heated second-row captain's chairs, while the third-row seat provided good thigh support despite limited legroom. The GLS's cargo capacity ranged from 355 litres behind the third row to a maximum of 2,400 litres with the second row folded down. While these measurements fell short of traditional full-size luxury SUVs, the GLS's cargo area was practical and easy to access.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch horizontal infotainment system controlled by a centre console-mounted dial, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This setup was reminiscent of early infotainment systems and appealed to users who preferred a more tactile interface. All CX-50 models came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the hybrid model included a wireless charging pad. The base audio system featured eight speakers, while the GT trim offered a 12-speaker Bose premium system.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted dual 12.3-inch displays as part of the MBUX infotainment system, offering a capable collection of features. Standard equipment included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality enhancement, and a Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology. Additional options included a 9.5-inch head-up display, a 7-inch tablet for rear passengers, and dual 11.6-inch rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with voice commands activated by saying "Hey Mercedes" to control various functions.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned top safety ratings, receiving five stars in all NHTSA evaluations except for rollover protection, where it received four stars. The IIHS awarded the CX-50 a Top Safety Pick+ rating. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The adaptive cruise control was noted for its smooth acceleration and stops.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with nearly 40 safety and driver assistance systems, including Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist technologies. The Car-to-X Communication system prepared the GLS for future road hazard warnings. Parking was made easy with front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a parking-related view button on the MBUX touchscreen. While the GLS lacked hands-free highway driver assistance technology, its hands-on system with a touch-sensing steering wheel worked well in most situations. The GLS required active driver participation, ensuring a smooth and refined driving experience.