2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lexus RX

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 practical yet affluent customers, offering a luxurious, family-friendly alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. 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 2022 Lexus RX, available in base 350, F Sport, and L trims, along with a hybrid RX 450h, continued its modern and sporty design from the 2020 facelift. Competing with the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X5, the RX stood out with its aggressive styling and sharp character lines. The F Sport trim, in particular, added a performance-oriented look with 20-inch wheels, black-housing mirrors, and unique front fascia. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with the F Sport trim adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three engine options. The entry-level 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. 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 adaptive air suspension, multiple drive modes, and a hushed, composed ride, making it a versatile and powerful SUV.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added two electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. Both models used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. The RX 450h came exclusively with AWD. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lackluster engine note and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport trim added performance dampers and an adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Sport+) offered minimal differences in driving dynamics. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, making it a pleasant companion for long drives. The RX 350 achieved an EPA rating of 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 combined, while the RX 450h offered 30 mpg combined.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured three rows of spacious seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The front and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for 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 rear rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2022 Lexus RX, with 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, comfortably seated four adults, with a snug fit for five. The front seats offered 39.4 inches of headroom and 44.1 inches of legroom, while the rear provided 39.1 inches of headroom and 38.0 inches of legroom. The three-row RX 350L had limited cargo space, with only 7.45 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 23.03 cubic feet with the third row down, and 58.48 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came 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 “Hey Mercedes,” and the digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning created access issues. The touchpad controller was frustrating to use, and the drive mode selector's placement added to the confusion. However, the RX included quality tech features like six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a WiFi hotspot.

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 tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Lexus RX included the Lexus Safety System 2.0+ as standard, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, lane-keeping assist, a pre-collision system, and intelligent high beams. Other standard features were blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a head-up display, and Lexus Enform Safety Connect. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights and received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.