2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated appearance in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the flashy chrome embellishments seen on competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently steered clear of the ostentatious grilles found on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX. However, for those seeking more visual flair, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced styling with features like flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and chrome accents. 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 options available in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-quality yet robust interior experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, captivated buyers with its classic, boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4. Its industrial design emphasized sharp corners and steep angles, creating a rugged, timeless look. The Defender paid homage to its 1980s predecessor with tasteful accents like dome step plates and skylights. Available in three body styles—90, 110, and 130—the Defender offered unparalleled versatility. Despite its utilitarian interior, which favored function over opulence, the Defender maintained excellent build quality. While its price tag approached that of a Range Rover, the Defender's unique character and off-road prowess made it a popular choice among Land Rover enthusiasts.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six 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 available from the electric motor. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, struggled with body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 boasted a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, though it fell short of some competitors in this regard.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its Terrain Response 2 system adapted the vehicle's powertrain and chassis to various surfaces, while permanent 4WD ensured reliable traction. On-road, the Defender's performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. The Defender offered a choice of engines, including a turbocharged inline-six with 395 hp and a supercharged V8 with 518 hp. The V8 provided exhilarating acceleration, though its fuel economy was poor. The mild-hybrid inline-six offered a balance of performance and efficiency, making it a practical choice for most buyers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version featured individual captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for third-row access, providing ample 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. While cargo space was slightly less than some competitors, the GLS featured convenient power-folding seats and a power tailgate. However, some ergonomic issues, such as a distant touchscreen and awkward grab handles, detracted from the overall experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender stood out with its flexible seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers in the 130 model. The Defender 90 offered a unique jump seat option, allowing three across in the front. The 130 provided a separate climate zone and amenities for third-row passengers. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering 77 cubic feet with seats folded. The Defender's large glass areas and optional panoramic moonroof enhanced visibility. Buyers could equip their Defenders with a range of accessories, including a roof rack, console refrigerator, and power-deployable side steps, making it a versatile choice for adventure seekers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was the most user-friendly. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive and difficult to use. While the graphics were impressive, the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes, undermining confidence in its reliability.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen options with Pivi Pro software, known for its reliability. The standard 10-inch screen was well-integrated, while the optional 11.4-inch screen provided better legibility. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a voice assistant, and navigation. Higher trims added luxury features like heated power seats, a Meridian stereo, and adaptive cruise control. The Defender's technology package was comprehensive, though some advanced features, like self-steering highway assist, were not available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a range of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel with full-screen maps and a 360-degree camera system. However, the Defender lacked some airbags and advanced driver-assistance features.