2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more subtle and less flashy appearance compared to its competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes avoided a gaudy grille, opting for a more refined look. The interior of the GLS 450, while basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, framed nicely by the upright dashboard.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, a redesigned grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. The top-of-the-line Signature trim added body-color lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 Signature trim boasted Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints about the seating. The driving position was sportier, and the interior included features like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive provided smooth and powerful performance. The GLS 450 could tow up to 7,700 pounds, though some competitors offered higher towing capacities. The air suspension, while adjustable, exhibited poor body control, leading to a less comfortable ride.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The 2.5 Turbo variant offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-5's fuel economy was 26 mpg combined for the 2.5 S and 24 mpg combined for the 2.5 Turbo. The CX-5's driving dynamics were significantly improved, with reduced noise, vibration, and harshness, and a more composed and sporty ride.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version featured individual captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, and the cargo space ranged from 17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS included one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, but the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout was frustrating due to the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The CX-5's cargo space was competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs but less impressive compared to mainstream compact crossovers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, SiriusXM, and natural-language voice recognition. The 13-speaker Burmester audio system was standard, with an optional head-up display. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, but the touchpad controller was overly sensitive. The graphics were high-quality, but the navigation system had some issues.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, which was not touch-sensitive. The system lacked natural voice recognition, requiring the use of center console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support, E911, and Mazda Connected Services. The 2.5 S Premium trim and above included a 10-speaker Bose sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio. The lack of a touchscreen and advanced voice recognition were notable drawbacks.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera system, Crosswind Assist, parking assist, and Pre Safe. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, second-row side airbags, and advanced driver-assistance features. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with the i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, a driver monitoring system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.