2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the luxury SUV market, had the advantage of a fresh design approach, unburdened by a long legacy. This allowed Genesis to innovate and establish its signature look, characterized by a massive trapezoidal grille, Quad Lamp LED headlights, and elegant two-box design. The GV80's exterior was marked by its long hood, short front overhang, and distinctive wheel arches, which housed 19-inch to 22-inch wheels. The rear design mirrored the front with Quad Lamp taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the GV80 offered a sleek, uncluttered dashboard with a focus on horizontal lines, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The use of authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather added to the luxury feel, while the 14.5-inch widescreen display and rotary gear selector highlighted the vehicle's technological sophistication.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more subdued and less flashy appearance in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the gaudy grilles seen in some competitors. However, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. The GLS interior, even in its basic form, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a modern and high-tech feel. Despite its understated design, the GLS maintained a high-quality interior that felt robust and suitable for a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with an optional AWD. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80's ride was supported by a 116.3-inch wheelbase and independent multi-link suspension, with advanced features like electronically-controlled suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential available on the 3.5T models. The four-cylinder engine provided adequate power for most driving situations, while the V6 offered a smoother and more powerful experience, enhanced by active noise cancellation. Fuel economy for the GV80 ranged from 18 to 25 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque available from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth and ample power, aided by the electric assist for a seamless driving experience. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to a less comfortable ride. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but slightly lower than some rivals.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The center console and stack housed a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The GV80's second row was spacious and comfortable, with power-adjustable seats and luxury features like power window shades and climate control. A third row was available on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, though it was not as spacious as the second row.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version offered individual captain's chairs in the second row. The GLS provided excellent second-row legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase, and competitive cargo space with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS also featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate for easy cargo access. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach and the center console grab handles lacking a clear purpose.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with the sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system, featuring a 14.5-inch HD screen with split-screen displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and cloud connectivity for over-the-air updates. The system supported user profiles and offered a digital key function for Android users. Genesis Connected Services provided a range of features, including remote start, vehicle health reports, and navigation. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was found to be overly sensitive and difficult to use. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature available in other Mercedes models, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. The GV80 came with 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a suite of safety features such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The adaptive cruise control system used machine learning to tailor its function to the driver's behavior, and the highway-driving assist could perform lane changes and adjust lane position. The GV80 also offered Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The Pre Safe system prepared the vehicle for a potential collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.