2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite some new design tweaks, retained much of its decade-old styling. The updated GX featured the hourglass grille design that had become a hallmark of the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on other models, it seemed to fit the GX better. However, the vehicle's age was evident, especially in the cabin, which looked unchanged from the early 2010s. The large, chunky center console with big buttons and a recessed infotainment screen was a throwback to an earlier era of Lexus design. Despite its dated interior, the GX's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, made it a reliable choice for those who valued off-road performance over modern aesthetics.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more modern and refined look. The third generation of the GLS, introduced in 2020, carried over to 2021 with softened angles and lines that made it appear more svelte. Inside, the GLS featured a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dash area. This setup highlighted the vehicle's tech-reliant controls. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Each trim offered a range of luxurious features, from heated front seats and a power liftgate to massaging front seats and a performance-inspired flat-bottomed sport steering wheel in the AMG model.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This power was sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4-wheel drive system. While these specs might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a distinctive swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's steering was light yet direct, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth, composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its various 4WD modes and adjustable suspension. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 came with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, produced an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This model could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and a hushed, composed ride, making it a versatile and powerful choice.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with the latter also featuring power-folding third-row seats. While the captain's chairs provided a convenient access way to the third row, getting into the third row was still a chore for adults. The GX had 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded, which was less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a useful feature.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Seven-passenger seating was standard, but optional second-row captain's chairs reduced capacity to six. The third row was surprisingly spacious, accommodating full-size adults comfortably. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to the vehicle's practicality.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age, featuring a true touchscreen flanked by large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the simplicity of the system was a welcome change from more complex modern setups.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a simple trackpad. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station" or "find me a seafood restaurant." The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. This setup required a learning curve but ultimately made the technology more manageable.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX's great visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, added to its safety.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control.