2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Acura MDX

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
$76,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
$76,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$76,000

MSRP

$48,000

Listings

281

Listings

649

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Plenty of cargo space

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • Cramped third row

  • Unintuitive technology

  • Poor fuel economy

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS Reviews Summary

The “S” in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class name is meant to connect the SUV to the S-Class flagship sedan. In this sense, the GLS is the S-Class of SUVs, and it delivers on that positioning. The 2021 GLS-Class has three rows of spacious seating, and puts comfort above all else. The GLS can hold groceries, weekend bags, antique desks purchased from a roadside consignment shop—all things that would require a lot of negotiating in the S-Class sedan.

The GLS-Class is one member of a growing fraternity of full-size, three-row, luxury SUVs. Their ranks include the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX80, and the more recent BMW X7. The GLS sets itself apart with a higher standard of luxury, and impressive performance… if you’re willing to shell out the cash.

2022 Acura MDX Reviews Summary

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.0L 362 hp I6

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

362 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

24

MPG Highway

26
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
$76,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
$76,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$76,000
$48,000
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.9

4.6

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Plenty of cargo space

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • Cramped third row

  • Unintuitive technology

  • Poor fuel economy

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Excellent value for money

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Summary

The “S” in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class name is meant to connect the SUV to the S-Class flagship sedan. In this sense, the GLS is the S-Class of SUVs, and it delivers on that positioning. The 2021 GLS-Class has three rows of spacious seating, and puts comfort above all else. The GLS can hold groceries, weekend bags, antique desks purchased from a roadside consignment shop—all things that would require a lot of negotiating in the S-Class sedan.

The GLS-Class is one member of a growing fraternity of full-size, three-row, luxury SUVs. Their ranks include the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX80, and the more recent BMW X7. The GLS sets itself apart with a higher standard of luxury, and impressive performance… if you’re willing to shell out the cash.

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.0L 362 hp I6
3.5L 290 hp V6
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
362 hp @ 5500 rpm
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
20
19
MPG Highway
24
26
Look and feel

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

9/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class scores 9 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2022 Acura MDX rates 8 out of 10. The third-generation GLS-Class offers a more svelte appearance with softened angles and lines, along with a futuristic cabin featuring a massive digital screen spanning the dash area. On the other hand, the 2022 MDX showcases a sportier and modern design, with a wider body and enhanced proportions. Both vehicles provide a luxurious and comfortable interior, catering to the needs of upscale consumers.
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Performance

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

9/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class impresses with powerful engine options, including a twin-turbo V8 in the AMG GLS 63 model, delivering exceptional acceleration and handling for a large SUV. On the other hand, the 2022 Acura MDX offers a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine with improved suspension and steering, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. Both vehicles excel in performance, with the GLS-Class emphasizing power and speed, while the MDX focuses on precision and agility.
Form and function

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

8/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
When it comes to seating comfort and cargo capacity, the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class offers spacious three-row seating with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. With up to 87.4 cubic feet of cargo space, the GLS provides practical storage options for luggage and gear. On the other hand, the Acura MDX features innovative seating configurations and flexible cargo space, ranging from 39.1 to 95 cubic feet, making it suitable for various passenger and cargo needs. Both SUVs prioritize functionality and convenience, catering to families and individuals requiring versatility.
Technology

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

9/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class showcases the advanced MBUX infotainment system with a massive touch screen and voice-control capabilities, enhancing connectivity and convenience for drivers. In comparison, the 2022 Acura MDX boasts an ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, wireless Apple CarPlay, and an intuitive 12.3-inch infotainment screen, providing a premium audio experience and seamless integration of technology features. Both vehicles offer cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving and entertainment experience.
Safety

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

9/10

2022 Acura MDX

8/10
In terms of safety features, the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class comes standard with a wide array of driver-assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Similarly, the Acura MDX is equipped with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems, offering collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition for enhanced safety on the road. Both SUVs prioritize safety and provide peace of mind for occupants.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend choosing the 2022 Acura MDX for its competitive pricing, advanced technology features, and impressive safety systems.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend choosing the 2022 Acura MDX for its competitive pricing, advanced technology features, and impressive safety systems.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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