2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The GLS's design softened its angles and lines, making it appear less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric controls.

The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 included remote keyless entry, remote start, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The GLS 580 added a V8 engine, heated-and-cooled front seats, massaging front seats, and more. The AMG GLS 63, with its aggressive bodywork and performance-inspired interior, stood out with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform and mechanicals with the Nissan Armada, giving it a familiar yet distinct appearance. The QX80's front-end styling, featuring a prominent Infiniti grille, set it apart from its sibling. LED lighting and tasteful chrome accents added to its upscale look, while the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels on higher trims further enhanced its exterior appeal.

Inside, the QX80's cabin featured unique, upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats. However, the design showed its age compared to newer competitors. Despite this, the QX80's interior remained comfortable and attractive. The Sensory-trim test vehicle included features like a power-sliding moonroof and illuminated kick plates, adding a premium touch. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, though the third row was cramped for adults.

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 engine, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both models used 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 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.

The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension system allowed for adjustable ground clearance, enhancing both cornering and obstacle clearance. The SUV's multiple drive-mode settings, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowed drivers to customize throttle response, transmission mapping, suspension stiffness, and steering feel. Despite its size, the GLS handled like a smaller car, offering a composed ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and linear power delivery. The QX80's transmission offered adaptive shift control and manual mode, ensuring seamless shifts and quick kickdowns for passing. The SUV's body-on-frame construction and 9.2 inches of ground clearance made it capable of handling off-road terrain, though its low-profile tires required caution.

The QX80's maximum towing capacity was 8,500 pounds, making it suitable for towing large trailers or boats. The available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering, ensuring a stable ride. Despite its size, the QX80 handled well, though it reminded drivers of its nearly three-ton weight during quick maneuvers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as spacious, could still accommodate full-size adults. The GLS provided 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 the second and third rows folded. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, thanks to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin felt open and airy, with good head- and legroom for front-seat passengers. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space measured 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and illuminated kick plates added convenience and a premium touch.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable for connection. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station" or "Find me a seafood restaurant." The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, while based on an older design, included a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system also featured navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Performance Series Bose system available on higher trims. The QX80 also included a wireless smartphone charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system, though the lack of HDMI adapters was a drawback.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with lane-departure prevention, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety items included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row outboard passengers. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model receiving four stars for overall crash protection.