2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Land Rover Defender

The 2021 Land Rover Defender carried forward the legacy of its predecessors, maintaining a distinctive look that had evolved since the original Land Rover Series I in 1948. The new Defender echoed the rugged charm of its ancestors with modern touches, such as half-round LED headlights and a structural grille design. Its exterior was marked by short overhangs, a floating roof, and a spare tire mounted on the tailgate, all contributing to its robust and capable appearance. Inside, the Defender showcased an exposed structure theme, with a dash held between horizontal beams and beefy controls. The interior materials were authentic and high-quality, with real metal and leather surfaces, providing a luxurious yet tough feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more subtle and refined aesthetic, especially in its base GLS 450 form. It avoided the flashy chrome and gaudy grilles seen in some competitors, presenting a more understated luxury. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS provided a luxurious environment with options for reclining rear seats and performance-oriented interiors in the AMG model. The standard interior, while basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall upscale feel.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A more powerful option was the 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid setup, delivering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. An exciting addition for 2022 was the supercharged 5.0-liter V8, producing 518 hp. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD with Terrain Response, enhancing both on-road and off-road capabilities. The Defender boasted impressive off-road specs, including a 30.1-degree approach angle and 35.4 inches of wading depth. On-road, it was quick, with the 3.0-liter version reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and it had a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. The GLS lineup also included models with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, offering up to 603 hp in the AMG version. All GLS models featured 4Matic AWD, with the AMG model having a performance-tuned drivetrain. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, slightly less than some competitors. However, the air suspension, while standard, exhibited poor body control, affecting ride comfort.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender utilized a unibody platform shared with other Land Rover models, enhancing both strength and weight reduction. Its independent multi-link air suspension improved both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Defender offered flexible seating configurations, including an optional jump seat in the front and a third-row seat in the long-wheelbase 110 model. Cargo space was generous, with up to 78.8 cubic feet available in the 110 model.

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 easier access to the third row, and the GLS boasted the best second-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. Cargo space was competitive, with 84.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with the air suspension aiding in loading and unloading cargo.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender featured Land Rover's Electronic Vehicle Architecture 2.0, allowing for remote software updates. The Pivi Pro infotainment system included a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Defender offered multiple camera views, including a "transparent hood" view, and optional Meridian sound systems. A head-up display and ClearSight rear-view mirror were also available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, responding to natural speech. However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome, and the navigation system had some issues. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature found in other Mercedes models.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but it came with a comprehensive list of safety features, including electronic traction control, dynamic stability control, emergency braking, and a 360-degree parking aid. It underwent extensive durability testing, ensuring its capability in harsh conditions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The GLS had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of publication.