2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that managed to blend size with sophistication. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in the lineup. The GLS offered a more pragmatic choice for affluent families, with its three rows of seating and plush interior. The transition from GL to GLS marked a shift towards a more refined design, with softened angles and a sleek appearance that belied its actual size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-forward approach.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, while borrowing some styling cues from other Genesis models, carved out its own identity with a unique design. It featured quad LED strips for headlights and taillights, a large shield-shaped grille, and a sloping roofline that gave it a fastback silhouette. The ribbed detailing added a muscular touch, making the GV70 appear both rugged and sleek. The Sport Prestige model further enhanced its character with unique styling elements, including a distinctive front fascia, 21-inch wheels with a web pattern, and dark chrome trim. Inside, the GV70's elliptical-themed interior, inspired by an airplane wing, offered a minimalist yet luxurious feel, with a rotary gear selector and infotainment controller adding a touch of baroque elegance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 stepped up with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, pushed the limits with 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes, including Sport and Sport+, allowed for a customizable driving experience, while E-Active Body Control ensured a smooth ride over rough roads.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two engine options: a base 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 featured a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, hinting at its sporty aspirations. However, while the Sport+ mode sharpened throttle response and held high revs, the GV70's chassis and steering lacked the precision of some competitors. The GV70 excelled in highway cruising, but its firm ride and lack of solidity detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered spacious three-row seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. The third row, while not as roomy, could still accommodate full-size adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a large center console and spacious door bins.

The 2022 Genesis GV70's interior space was average for its segment, offering similar headroom to the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class and BMW X3. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet with them folded. The GV70's daring interior design compromised storage space, with a slim center console and thin door pockets. The front seats in the Sport Prestige model were heavily bolstered, offering heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions, though some controls were buried in touchscreen menus.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touchscreen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system's voice control allowed for complex commands, while the digital dash extended to a fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, featuring a tile-based layout and crisp graphics. A glass rotary controller added functionality with pinch-and-zoom capabilities. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 also included a digital-key feature, a fingerprint scanner, and a radar-based rear-seat monitor, along with Genesis Connected Services for remote vehicle monitoring.

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. Optional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, lacking crash-test ratings, offered standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, blind-spot and forward collision-avoidance assist, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality and navigation-based adaptive cruise control. The GV70's Highway Driving Assist impressed with smooth control inputs, though its lane-centering function struggled with sharp curves.