2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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 Volkswagen Taos, positioned at the lower end of the compact SUV segment, competed with models like the Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Crosstrek. Available in S, SE, and SEL trims, the Taos offered a single engine choice and the option of front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive. Prices ranged from $22,995 to $33,045, with a $1,195 destination charge.

The Taos's design fit seamlessly into Volkswagen's lineup, with the SEL 4Motion test vehicle featuring 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels and Cornflower Blue paint. Inside, the Taos's cabin was spacious, with deeply bolstered front seats and generous rear legroom. However, the interior materials, primarily hard plastics, drew criticism for their toy-like feel. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with the front-wheel-drive model offering more volume than the 4Motion version.

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 its 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.

The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance, enhancing both cornering and obstacle clearance. Multiple drive-mode settings, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, adjusted throttle response, transmission mapping, suspension stiffness, and steering feel. Despite its size, the GLS offered a composed ride and handled like a smaller car, thanks to features like E-Active Body Control.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The 4Motion AWD system paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the front-wheel-drive model used an eight-speed automatic. The Taos's turbocharger caused delayed throttle response, and the DCT's erratic shifting could be frustrating. However, the Taos excelled in road feel, responsive steering, and handling, especially in Sport mode.

The Taos's ground clearance of 6.6 inches was less than competitors like the Jeep Compass and Subaru Crosstrek. Fuel economy for the Taos SEL 4Motion was rated at 28 mpg combined, with real-world testing averaging 27.1 mpg.

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. Cargo space was generous, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. The GLS also featured numerous storage compartments and a power-folding third row for added convenience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos boasted a roomy cabin, with the SEL's front seats offering plenty of adjustment options and comfort features like heating and ventilation. The rear seat provided generous legroom and comfort, with rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space varied by drive system, with the front-wheel-drive model offering 27.9 cubic feet behind the back seat and 65.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The 4Motion model had slightly less cargo space, at 24.9 and 60.2 cubic feet, respectively.

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 a USB-C cable was required. 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 instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came with Digital Cockpit instrumentation and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The SE and SEL trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen with MIB3 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker BeatsAudio premium sound system. However, the voice-recognition technology and user experience were less than ideal, with complex menu navigation and slow response times.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous 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 also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered IQ Drive safety technologies, standard or available on all trims. The IQ Drive package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Taos SEL added rain-sensing wipers, road sign recognition, and rear parking sensors with automatic braking. Emergency Assist and Travel Assist were also available, providing advanced driving assistance and safety features.