2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a familiar yet slightly updated aesthetic, with a new front fascia featuring a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights. These changes aligned it with the aggressive styling of the A-Class and CLS-Class. Despite these updates, the GLC's design was often considered unremarkable from most angles, lacking the visual drama found in competitors like the Volvo XC60 or Acura RDX. The AMG versions, however, added some excitement with their wide tires and vertical-bar grille. The interior of the GLC was a standout feature, offering one of the best in the business with high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish. The 2020 model introduced a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen, replacing the smaller displays of previous models, and a new touchpad on the console, enhancing the user experience.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more modern and spacious design. The GLS featured a beamy, futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen spanning nearly two-thirds of the dash, emphasizing its tech-reliant controls. The GLS was available in three levels, with the AMG GLS 63 standing out for its aggressive bodywork and performance-inspired interior. The GLS's interior was spacious, with three rows of seating and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. The GLS also boasted a range of standard features, including a 13-speaker Burmester premium sound system and wireless device charging, enhancing its appeal as a luxury SUV.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offered improved performance over previous models, though it still fell short compared to competitors like the BMW X3. The AMG GLC 43 featured a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine with 385 horsepower, delivering impressive power and a thrilling driving experience. The AMG GLC 63 models offered even more power with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing up to 503 horsepower. Despite these options, the GLC 300's steering and handling were criticized for being lackluster, with noticeable body roll and vague steering.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 horsepower, while the AMG GLS 63 boasted a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 603 horsepower. All engines were equipped with Mercedes' EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, providing additional power when needed. The AMG GLS 63 was capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, offering impressive performance for a large SUV. The GLS also featured an adaptive air suspension system, providing a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a mix of digital and physical controls, with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system providing a user-friendly interface. The GLC's interior was comfortable for four adults, though the back seat's reclining mechanism was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57 cubic feet with them folded, falling short compared to competitors like the BMW X3.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided a spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The GLS offered ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants, with the third row being suitable for adults. The GLS also provided generous cargo space, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 87.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage compartments and a combination cup-holder/wireless-charging pad, enhancing its practicality.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the MBUX infotainment system, offering advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a cloud-based voice assistant. While these features were innovative, they were sometimes limited in functionality. The GLC also included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional wireless device charging.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS also came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and voice-control system. The system allowed for easy navigation through large icons and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The GLS's digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, providing a modern and customizable interface for the driver.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC was recognized for its safety, earning a 2019 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured advanced safety technologies like Exit Warning Assist and Pre-Safe Sound, enhancing its safety credentials.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Additional safety technologies were available, such as lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control, providing a high level of safety for occupants.