2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its more ostentatious competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a subtle design, avoiding the flashy grilles seen on models like the BMW X7. However, for those seeking more visual flair, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced styling elements such as flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450 maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting, though it lacked some of the more extravagant features found in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a modern and high-quality interior experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S offered a blend of subtlety and sportiness. The Type S featured chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, giving it a confident stance. Inside, the MDX Type S Advance trim boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a leather-wrapped dashboard. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, detracted from usability. The MDX's interior was comfortable, with features like heated and ventilated front seats, but the seats didn't quite match the performance-oriented mission of the Type S. Overall, the MDX Type S was appealing but had some design quirks that affected its practicality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes’ EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the electric motor. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth and balanced performance, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, lacked the refinement expected in a luxury vehicle, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S included performance enhancements like a solid front suspension stabilizer bar and larger brake rotors. However, these upgrades didn't fully integrate into a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent, making it challenging to drive with confidence. The MDX Type S also struggled with fuel efficiency, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing, which was below its EPA rating. Despite its performance-oriented features, the MDX Type S fell short of delivering a thrilling driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version with captain’s chairs was available. The second-row seats could slide forward to provide access to the third row, and the GLS boasted impressive second-row 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 included convenient features like power-folding seats and a power tailgate, though the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating with flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Advance trim included 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row seat could slide to create more space for third-row passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's interior design prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the center console. The cargo area offered 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The MDX included practical features like a hands-free liftgate and underfloor storage, making it suitable for family trips.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped 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 13-speaker Burmester audio system. Users had multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. The infotainment system relied on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) for operation, which was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens. The TTI design limited center console storage and partially obstructed the wireless charging pad. The MDX included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, providing familiar voice assistant functions. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread speed limits.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist were available as options. The GLS also included Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Acura MDX came with Acura Watch, a suite of safety features including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The latest Acura Watch systems were more refined, though some issues, like false lane-departure warnings, were noted. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in the frontal-impact test.