2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS carried forward the third generation introduced in 2020. Initially launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was meant to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it around. The GLS, with its three rows and luxurious interior, became a family-friendly alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The name change from GL to GLS happened midway through its second generation. The current GLS had a more refined appearance with softened angles and lines, making it look sleeker. Inside, it featured a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen covering two-thirds of the dash, emphasizing its tech-centric controls.

The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. The GLS 450 came with numerous standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages added features like ventilated seats and heated armrests. The GLS 580 added a V8 engine and more luxury features, while the AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive styling and performance-inspired interior elements.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban had a polarizing front-end design, borrowing elements from the Camaro, which didn't always translate well to its massive frame. The combination of small headlights and large grilles was not universally liked. However, the interior remained familiar and functional, with controls in their usual places. The infotainment screen was well-positioned but could reflect sunlight into the driver's eyes.

The Suburban came in several trims: LS, LT, Z71, RST, Premier, and the top-tier High Country. The LS included standard features like an infotainment system, 18-inch wheels, and a WiFi hotspot. The LT added leather upholstery and a Bose stereo. The Z71 was off-road-focused, while the RST had a sportier look. The Premier included adaptive suspension and navigation. The High Country, which we tested, featured a deluxe package with adaptive air suspension, power-retractable running boards, and a panoramic sunroof. Despite its high price, the High Country's interior quality was more akin to an upscale pickup than a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both engines used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63 had a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed AMG twin-clutch automatic transmission. All engines included Mercedes' EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed.

The AMG GLS 63 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 174 mph. It featured an adaptive air suspension system, adjustable ground clearance, and double-wishbone front suspension, providing exceptional cornering abilities. The GLS had multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, controlled by a dial on the steering wheel. The E-Active Body Control option ensured a smooth ride over rough roads, making the GLS feel maneuverable in urban settings.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's standard engine was a 5.3-liter V8, producing 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. A 6.2-liter V8 was also available, offering 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The 5.3-liter V8 with the Max Trailering package could tow up to 8,300 pounds. Our test vehicle had the new Duramax turbodiesel engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six generating 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. All engines used a 10-speed automatic transmission, with standard rear-wheel drive or optional 4WD.

The diesel engine provided strong torque and good acceleration, making the Suburban capable of handling heavy loads while seating seven or eight people. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality, though the Suburban still exhibited some truck-like handling characteristics, such as body roll and sensitivity to crosswinds. The brakes were effective, providing confidence-inspiring stopping power.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. Seven-passenger seating was standard, but optional second-row captain's chairs reduced capacity to six. The third row was less spacious but still suitable for adults. The GLS had 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. The driver and front passenger had plenty of storage compartments, though the center console was relatively small.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, it provided 93.8 cubic feet, and 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Passengers enjoyed a commanding view of the road and ample head- and legroom. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, and the control layout was familiar, though the button shifter was less intuitive. The power-sliding center console was a complex feature that added little value.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a large touch screen and a trackpad controller. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required. The voice-control system responded to "Hey Mercedes" and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system had a learning curve but offered extensive functionality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available navigation system. The rear entertainment system featured large touchscreens, and the head-up display provided clear graphics. The system was user-friendly, with a helpful home button for easy navigation.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Optional safety features included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, and adaptive cruise control. The GLS also had a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. The Teen Driver system allowed for speed and volume limitations. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Unique options included the rear-view camera mirror and the Safety Alert Seat.