2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Jeep Compass

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, 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 five-zone automatic climate control. The AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive bodywork, a quad-outlet exhaust, and a performance-inspired interior, including a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel with a leather stripe.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, despite exterior updates and new wheel designs, retained much of its look from the 2017 redesign. The High Altitude test vehicle featured 19-inch multi-spoke wheels that matched its upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass High Altitude impressed with a new dashboard design, updated digital instrumentation, and luxury-grade leather seats, significantly enhancing its premium feel.

The Compass lineup started with the base Sport trim and progressed through Latitude, Latitude Lux, Limited, Trailhawk, and High Altitude models. Prices ranged from $26,020 to $35,085, excluding a $1,595 destination charge. The High Altitude model came with standard all-wheel drive and option packages like the Elite Interior Group and Driver Assist Group 1, bringing the MSRP to $40,470.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivered an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed.

The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, adjustable ground clearance, and multiple drive-mode settings, including Individual, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The E-Active Body Control option ensured a smooth ride over rough roads, making the GLS feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2022 Jeep Compass came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. This "Tigershark" engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for AWD models, lacked the power and refinement of its competitors. The transmission's reluctance to downshift and the slow automatic stop/start system detracted from the driving experience. The Compass averaged 23.8 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 25 mpg.

The Compass High Altitude, with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, handled light off-roading and snow well. The Trailhawk trim offered enhanced off-road capabilities with a low-range AWD system, hill descent control, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. However, the Compass's driving dynamics needed improvement, with a bouncy ride and excessive lateral motion on uneven pavement.

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 less 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 driver and front passenger enjoyed numerous storage compartments, though the center console was relatively small.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned among Jeep's similarly sized SUVs, provided enough space for four adults and their luggage. The High Altitude model featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The redesigned dashboard, new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, and premium leather upholstery elevated the Compass's interior quality. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like "Find me a gas station" and could be activated by saying "Hey Mercedes." The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was five times faster than the previous version. An 8.4-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available. Uconnect 5 supported wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and over-the-air updates. The Compass also offered a navigation system, connected services, a WiFi hotspot, and a wireless device charging pad. The voice recognition system was fast and accurate, though it struggled with specific requests like finding the nearest hospital.

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. 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 Jeep Compass improved its safety features for 2022, with standard forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Compass would add Highway Assist later in the model year, pairing adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance for highway driving. Available features included parallel and perpendicular parking assistance and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. However, the Compass's forward-collision warning system occasionally produced false positives.