2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, particularly in its base GLS 450 form, presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its more ostentatious competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a more subtle grille design, avoiding the exaggerated styles seen in models like the BMW X7. However, for those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced visual flair with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS 450 maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery and ambient lighting, though it lacked some of the more extravagant features found in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, contributing to a high-quality interior that felt robust and suitable for a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to impress with its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The CX-5's appeal was not limited to its top-tier models, as all versions exuded a sense of refinement and sophistication. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. While the CX-5 was being phased out in favor of the new CX-50, it remained a strong contender in the compact crossover segment, offering a blend of style, quality, and performance that appealed to many consumers.

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 available from the electric motor in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth performance, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension, while adjustable, 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 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying driving experience, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm on regular gas and 2,500 rpm on premium. The CX-5's updates in 2022 improved its structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and transmission responsiveness, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged model returned 21.4 mpg in combined driving during testing, slightly below the EPA estimate. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and connected ride that aligned with Mazda's sporty brand identity.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward to increase legroom by 3.4 inches, providing ample space for passengers. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space 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 made loading easy with power-folding seats and a power tailgate. However, some ergonomic issues, like the touchscreen's reach and sun visor size, were noted.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured updated front seats for improved comfort and support, with power adjustments available in higher trims. The Signature trim included luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. Despite high-quality materials, the CX-5's technology, storage, and rear-seat space were limited. The cargo area offered 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than some rivals. The lack of a conversational voice recognition system and small in-cabin storage areas were drawbacks, but the CX-5's overall interior quality remained commendable.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring 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 cumbersome. The navigation system lacked the augmented-reality feature found in other Mercedes models and occasionally suggested inefficient routes, undermining confidence in its reliability.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use. The lack of a voice recognition system and awkward physical controls on the center console made it challenging to operate. The control knob required multiple actions to execute commands, often necessitating looking away from the road. Despite these issues, the system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims offered a Bose audio system and helpful parking camera features, but the overall user experience was lacking compared to competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. However, advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist were optional. The GLS had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with most i-Activsense driver assistance technologies standard. Exclusive features for the 2.5 Turbo Signature included a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's systems operated smoothly and accurately, with a head-up display available in higher trims. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety performance.