2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

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 spanning 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 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 climate control. 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, delivering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a redesigned front end with an Audi-esque grille. While the grille's design was a rare misstep, the rest of the updates were successful. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with high-quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system, with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, kept the Navigator competitive in the screen size race.

The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims. The Black Label trim, tested in the new Central Park theme, featured a green interior with second-row heated, ventilated, and massaging captain's chairs. The total sticker price for the test vehicle was $106,530, including the destination charge.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. 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, delivering 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 its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds.

The GLS 63 featured an adaptive, adjustable air suspension system, allowing ground clearance adjustments between 7.9 and 8.5 inches. The SUV's double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension provided precise cornering, while multiple drive-mode settings, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowed for customizable driving experiences. The GLS's E-Active Body Control ensured a smooth ride, even on rough roads, making it easily maneuverable in urban environments.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The SUV's towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview, identified and prepared for road imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride.

During testing, the Navigator's twin-turbo V6 effortlessly climbed elevations and handled snow and mud with ease, thanks to its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and appropriate driving modes. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, addressing previous concerns. The Navigator's fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 18.6 mpg during the evaluation.

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, was still suitable for 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 the GLS's practicality.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator's 30-way power-adjustable front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs, also heated, ventilated, and massaging, provided a luxurious experience. The third-row seat remained roomy and supportive, making the Navigator a comfortable choice for all passengers. The Navigator offered 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L provided even more cargo space.

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" 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 Lincoln Navigator introduced the Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and featured a user-friendly interface. Physical controls for volume, stereo tuning, and climate functions were easy to use. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The new 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

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 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, such as Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also newly standard. Intersection Assist could automatically brake during unsafe movements, while Road Edge Detection steered the SUV away from road edges. Active Park Assist 2.0 handled parking tasks, and ActiveGlide provided semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well but required the driver to remain attentive.