2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser, in its final year of production, offered a nostalgic nod to its storied past with the Heritage Edition trim. However, the standard model, which was the focus of this review, presented a more subdued appearance. Dressed in Magnetic Gray paint and Terra leather upholstery, it lacked the visual flair of its special edition counterpart. The exterior design, with its oversized headlights and chrome accents, was reminiscent of a first-generation Toyota Highlander, albeit with a more luxurious touch. Inside, the Land Cruiser combined high-quality materials with a mix of Toyota and Lexus design elements, creating a cabin that felt both plush and slightly dated. The presence of a traditional hand-operated parking brake and a CD player added to the retro charm, making the Land Cruiser feel like a time capsule from the mid-2000s.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a more modern and refined aesthetic. The base GLS 450 model offered a subtle, less ostentatious look compared to its luxury SUV competitors. However, for those seeking more visual drama, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions provided enhanced styling with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior was luxurious yet understated, with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-tech feel. While the GLS 450's interior was not as opulent as some might expect, it delivered a high-quality experience without feeling overly delicate.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, shared with the Toyota Tundra, was remarkably quiet during acceleration, with only a hint of its characteristic growl making its way into the cabin. Despite its power, the Land Cruiser's fuel economy was less than stellar, averaging 14.7 mpg during testing, slightly better than the EPA's 14 mpg combined rating. The eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel-drive system, complete with a two-speed transfer case, provided robust off-road capabilities. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was further enhanced by features like a Torsen limited-slip differential, Multi-Terrain Select traction assist, and Crawl Control. On-road, the Land Cruiser offered a refined driving experience, though its nearly 3-ton weight was evident in its handling and maneuverability. With a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds, it was well-suited for hauling heavy loads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine was complemented by Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. This setup provided ample power for the GLS 450, with the electric assist seamlessly integrated. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered a smoother experience compared to traditional V6 engines, making it a fitting choice for a luxury SUV. However, the GLS 450's air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. With a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, the GLS 450 was slightly less capable than some of its competitors in this regard.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's interior was both luxurious and functional, though storage space was somewhat limited. The center console housed a parking brake handle and various controls, while a small dashboard compartment served as a wireless smartphone charger. The plush leather upholstery and heated, ventilated front seats provided comfort, and the commanding driving position offered excellent visibility. The second-row bench seat accommodated three passengers, with heated cushions and ample legroom. The third-row seat, while standard, was less comfortable for adults on longer trips. Cargo space was modest, with 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 82.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious and versatile interior, with a standard seven-seat configuration. The second-row bench seat could slide fore and aft, providing excellent legroom, while an optional six-seat version featured individual captain's chairs. Cargo space was competitive, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 84.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The GLS made loading and unloading easy with power-folding seats and a power tailgate. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach and the center console's grab handles lacking a clear purpose.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser's technology was a throwback to simpler times. Its 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system required tapping rather than swiping, and it lacked the depth and sophistication of more modern systems. The absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was a notable drawback, though Siri Eyes Free voice control was available. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, while functional, felt outdated, and the 14-speaker JBL Synthesis audio system, while decent, fell short of the high-end audio offerings in other luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the advanced MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system, activated by "Hey Mercedes," was particularly effective, understanding natural speech well. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive and challenging to use. The GLS' navigation system, while visually appealing, had some quirks, such as suggesting inefficient routes. The standard 13-speaker Burmester audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser came equipped with 10 airbags and a robust curb weight, offering a good chance of occupant protection in collisions. However, it lacked crash-test ratings, leaving its safety performance somewhat uncertain. Standard Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the Land Cruiser lacked more advanced driver-assistance systems, such as stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The Pre Safe system prepared the vehicle for potential collisions by tightening seat belts and closing windows. However, many advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, were optional. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.