2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that combined practicality with opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was intended to replace the G-Class, but instead, it found its niche among affluent families seeking a more comfortable alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS featured a sleek design with softened angles, making it appear less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of luxurious features and options to enhance comfort and convenience.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels, and sport-terrain tires, giving it a rugged appearance. The Terrain AT4 was marketed as a small off-road SUV, equipped with a steel skid plate for protection. The test model featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and a range of packages, including the Tech Package and Infotainment Package II. While the Terrain offered a more affordable entry point with the SLE and SLT trims, the Denali trim added a touch of luxury. However, the Terrain's entry-level status was evident in the quality of materials and execution of details, with some features falling short of expectations.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with 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 engine, delivering 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 174 mph. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and E-Active Body Control, providing a smooth and composed ride.

In comparison, the 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked the power of the previously available turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, the 1.5-liter engine offered decent performance for its class. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped keep the Terrain in the torque band, but there was a noticeable delay in acceleration. The Terrain AT4 featured a four-wheel independent suspension and 17-inch wheels, providing a comfortable ride on various surfaces. However, its off-road capabilities were limited, and the sport-terrain tires offered minimal grip. The Terrain's powertrain met expectations for fuel economy, achieving an EPA rating of 26 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with three rows of seating, providing ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as spacious, was suitable for adults. The GLS had a cargo capacity of 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, despite its compact size, offered a roomy interior with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat provided ample legroom and support, with rear USB charging ports for added convenience. The Terrain's cargo space measured 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The interior featured various storage solutions, including a storage tray, dashboard shelf, and door panel shelves.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system offered voice control, allowing users to issue complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for control.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and GMC Connected Services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation, improved voice recognition, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly responsive, accurately handling various prompts. The Terrain also featured a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS was equipped with front-and-side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 GMC Terrain featured the GMC Pro Safety Package, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The GMC Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, though it earned a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.