2022 Porsche Macan vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design charm, despite undergoing several updates since its debut in 2015. The latest model featured a refreshed exterior with larger standard wheels and a redesigned center console that introduced haptic touch controls, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The Macan lineup included the base model, Macan S, and Macan GTS, with the latter two benefiting from more powerful engines. Our test vehicle, a Macan S, was equipped with nearly $20,000 in extras, including performance upgrades and aesthetic enhancements like Volcano Gray paint and 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels. Inside, the Macan exuded a sporty and upscale vibe, with red leather, gloss black trim, and silver accents, while maintaining Porsche's traditional design elements.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more understated luxury experience, especially in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the flashy grilles of some competitors. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with unique styling elements and larger wheels. Our test car, though basic by GLS standards, still felt luxurious with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The GLS interior featured a digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen under one glass panel, providing a modern and cohesive look. While the GLS 450's interior was high-quality, it leaned towards a more subdued luxury, suitable for those seeking refinement without ostentation.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of engines, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan GTS boasted a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Our Macan S test car featured a 375 hp twin-turbo V6, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. All Macans came with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and an AWD system favoring rear-wheel power distribution. The Macan S excelled in handling, thanks to its adaptive damping suspension, optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, and performance tires, delivering a thrilling driving experience. However, the brakes required a firm push to engage, and fuel economy was close to the EPA rating of 19 mpg.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an EQ Boost mild-hybrid system adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six's smoothness suited the luxury SUV. However, the air suspension lacked refinement, leading to excessive body motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 offered a 7,700-pound towing capacity, though some competitors surpassed this figure. Despite the absence of a V8, the GLS 450's performance was adequate for most driving scenarios.

The 2022 Porsche Macan prioritized driver and front passenger comfort, with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats offering heating and ventilation. Rear-seat space was limited, especially for taller passengers, but access was easy, and the seats were supportive. The redesigned center console provided more storage, though space remained limited. Cargo capacity was 17.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 53 cubic feet with the seats folded. The new steering wheel design, inspired by the 911, felt less comfortable over long drives.

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 to increase legroom, and the GLS boasted the best second-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. 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 featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with air suspension lowering for easier loading. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Porsche Macan came with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, navigation, and connected services. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with optional Bose or Burmester upgrades. The user interface was intuitive, though voice recognition was less reliable than competitors. Fortunately, frequently used controls like volume and climate were separate from the touchscreen, reducing the need for interaction while driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. Users could interact via voice recognition, touchpad controller, steering wheel touchpads, or the touchscreen. The voice recognition system was effective, but the touchpad controller was overly sensitive. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation of the S-Class, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and a reversing camera. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. The safety systems performed as expected, but the Macan lacked advanced driving assistance technologies. Parking assistance features were available, including a surround-view camera and Park Assist system. No safety ratings were available from NHTSA or IIHS.

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 optional. The GLS also included Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a collision by tightening seat belts and closing windows. No crash-test ratings were available from NHTSA or IIHS.