2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 presented a sharp and modern appearance, embodying the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. Its expressive front featured LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold taillights. The plug-in hybrid version of the Q5 stood out with S-Line trim enhancements and larger wheel options, adding to its classy and refined look. Inside, the Q5 continued the theme of modernity and class with a technology-packed yet uncluttered cabin. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for optimal driver visibility. The second row offered standard leather seating, ensuring comfort throughout.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 had a more subtle exterior compared to its flashier competitors. It avoided gaudy grilles, presenting a confident yet understated look. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS 450's interior was luxurious, with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, framed by an upright dashboard. However, the GLS 450's suspension lacked the refinement expected in a luxury SUV, exhibiting excessive motion over bumps. Despite this, the interior felt high-quality and appropriate for a luxury vehicle.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with its plug-in hybrid system, adding 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque to the standard gasoline engine. This resulted in a combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, propelling the crossover from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered impressive fuel economy, achieving 65 MPGe combined and 27 mpg in gasoline-only mode. Its seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive provided versatility, allowing drivers to switch between electric-only, hybrid, and gasoline modes. The Q5's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts, enhancing performance. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered smoothness and balance, making it suitable for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension lacked refinement, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV offered a well-packaged interior, with its battery pack located under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It provided 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row offered ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out controls and storage solutions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for third-row access, offering excellent legroom. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The air suspension facilitated easy loading and unloading, but the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered three customizable views and was paired with color-adjustable LED ambient lighting. The Prestige Package included navigation, which worked with the hybrid system to optimize fuel consumption. The Integrated Toll Module was a convenient addition, and the Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, but the touchpad controller was cumbersome. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature found in other Mercedes models, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time, but the gasoline model received high ratings. It included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, Audi Pre Sense, and various driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and a top-view camera system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.