2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, available in base 350, F Sport, and L trim levels, with a hybrid RX 450h model. The RX 350 and F Sport offered seating for five, while the L trim provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's design, with its sharp character lines and angular features, was aggressive yet restrained, making it stand out among competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X5. The F Sport trim, in particular, added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury feel, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the center stack felt dated, and the seats, especially in the F Sport, lacked comfort and adjustability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in its base GLS 450 form, offered a more subtle and less flashy look compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and BMW X7. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS provided a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the interior's modern appeal. However, the GLS 450's suspension lacked refinement, leading to excessive motion over bumps. Despite this, the GLS 450's inline-six engine, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, delivered smooth and sufficient power, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All RX models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX lacked true sporty performance, with an engine note more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like adaptive variable suspension and a Sport+ drive mode, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, offering a serene ride. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 30 mpg combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The electric motor added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts, enhancing performance. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six's smoothness suited the luxury SUV. However, the air suspension lacked refinement, leading to excessive body motion. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, slightly less than some competitors. Overall, the GLS 450 offered a balanced performance with a focus on luxury and comfort.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo space in the standard RX was 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row version offered 7.45 cubic feet with all seats up, increasing to 58.48 cubic feet with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats didn't fold completely flat, and the cargo area's load-in height was high.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for third-row access, offering excellent legroom. Cargo space was 17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS provided easy loading with power-folding seats and a power tailgate, and the air suspension could lower for easier access. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the center console's grab handles.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, with a lip obstructing access. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad controller was frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a Burmester audio system. Users had multiple control options, with voice recognition being the most effective. The touchpad controller was overly sensitive, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Despite these issues, the GLS offered a comprehensive tech package with high-quality graphics.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights but received four stars overall from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The GLS had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication.