2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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 opted for a more refined grille design, steering clear of the bold protrusions found on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX. 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, 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 opulent features found in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, contributing to a high-quality interior ambiance.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 retained its distinctive design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile and clean exterior lines. Updates for 2023 included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper. The XC40 Recharge featured a sealed-off grille, distinguishing it from its gasoline counterparts. Inside, the XC40 maintained a minimalist aesthetic with thin air vents and scalloped door elements. The interior offered a mix of leather and vegan leather options, with features like dual-zone climate control and a panoramic moonroof available. While the all-black interior of the test vehicle felt somewhat utilitarian, the overall fit and finish were commendable, reflecting the XC40's position as Volvo's entry-level model.

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 power delivery, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the air suspension's lack of refinement led to excessive body motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The base B4 powertrain combined this system with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 197 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the B5 variant offered 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The B5 model, with its AWD configuration, accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The XC40's chassis provided a refined ride, absorbing bumps effectively and handling corners with composure. The XC40 Recharge, with its dual electric motors, delivered 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a towing capacity of 4,409 pounds.

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 replaced the bench with captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward to improve third-row access, and the GLS boasted impressive second-row legroom. Cargo space measured 17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, though some ergonomic issues, like the touchscreen's reach, were noted.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space for its class. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and a generous amount of shoulder room, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo capacity was 20 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded. The XC40 included a power tailgate and keyless entry on higher trims. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a spacious center console storage bin.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, though the touchpad controller proved cumbersome. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature found in the S-Class, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant. It featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen. The B5 Ultimate model included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the graphics were appealing, the reliance on touchscreen controls for most functions could be inconvenient, especially for tasks like adjusting seat heaters or driver-assist features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests, though it scored "Acceptable" in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall safety rating.