2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Acura MDX

Acura introduced two versions of the 2023 MDX: the standard and the Type S. Each offered an array of trim packages that upped the ante on equipment levels. The standard MDX came with base, Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages, while the MDX Type S was available in a standard spec or with an Advanced package. The pricing bracket for these models ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, excluding the $1,195 destination charge.

The MDX Type S Advance we tested flaunted a stunning Apex Blue Pearl paint job and featured an Orchid (white) interior. Phased at a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $74,995, this Acura aimed to set high expectations in quality, luxury, and driving agility, but it did not consistently hit the mark.

The fourth-generation MDX was Acura’s first SUV to sport the Type S badge, and its subtlety was a strength. The design approach with chicane-design LED running lights, subdued front styling modifications, muted badges, and 21-inch wheels gave the Type S a modern yet understated class. The panoramic sunroof and Iconic Drive ambient lighting themes added finesse.

The interior of the Type S brimmed with perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package that included a black headliner and stainless-steel pedal covers. The Advance package further enhanced it with open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. Despite its allure, the MDX Type S did present some issues. The body’s design angle gave a misleading impression of dents, and the gloss black plastic on the dashboard complicated the usability of some controls. The electronic transmission switchgear was also perplexing for habitual users.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class showcased a softer sensuality blending luxury with practicality. The GLS 450 test vehicle demonstrated this well with its updated silver four-louver grille design, polished metal accents, and Twilight Blue paint, enhanced by bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims.

Inside, the GLS 450 exuded luxury with its Bahia Brown over Black interior color scheme and natural-grain Grey Oak trim. Polished aluminum accents and exquisite detailing amplified the sophistication of the cabin.

The GLS 450 also offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, placing it in a versatile and affordable range while still delivering ample power. Upgraded configurations of the GLS offered even more robust powertrain options.

The GLS’s AMG Line and Exclusive Trim packages added sporty appeal and heightened comfort, including leather upholstery and second-row captain's chairs. Our fully equipped model, priced at $97,730 including destination charges, underscored a focus on blending opulence with performance.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out primarily due to its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, churning out 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. These figures marked increases of 65 hp and 87 lb-ft over the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, although the heightened power came with a weight penalty of 285 pounds more than the standard AWD-equipped MDX.

The turbo V6 utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, feeding power through Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This AWD system could direct up to 70% of the total engine output to one rear wheel when needed, enhancing the driving dynamics, especially when accelerating out of tight corners.

An Integrated Dynamics System offered various driving modes: Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, complemented by a specific Lift mode that raised ground clearance from 7.3 inches to 9.4 inches using adaptive air suspension. Driving the MDX Type S offered a mixed bag of thrills and challenges. It never quite fused into a cohesive whole, calling undue attention to itself through inconsistent transmission responses, poor brake modulation, and subpar fuel economy—averaging 16.9 mpg on a mixed driving route.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 excelled with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine offering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, combined with a mild-hybrid system. This arrangement made for smooth, quick acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The advanced nine-speed automatic transmission paired with the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system ensured swift and seamless power delivery.

Driving comfort and fuel efficiency also saw a boost with this system. The GLS 450 managed 19.9 mpg on a Southern California evaluation loop, despite its official combined rating of 21 mpg.

In Sport mode, the GLS 450 felt too responsive, and its steering felt heavy. However, Individual mode allowed fine-tuning of the driving experience, making it customizable to any preference. The adaptive air suspension helped to counteract unfavorable physics, keeping the massive SUV agile even on twisty roads.

The interior of the 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows with a blend of two or three seating options for the second row and a generous cargo area. Every MDX model came equipped with a triple-zone automatic climate control system. The Type S Advance added 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, all wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. Despite the high-end packaging, the seat firmness and limited bolstering were not entirely suited for performance driving.

The seven-passenger arrangement was standard, with flexible options like a removable second-row center section or fold-down capability for storing beverages and items. While the second-row offered slide functionality for better third-row access, the space was tight for adults. The third-row seating was best suited for children.

When it came to cargo capacity, the Acura MDX provided a decent amount of space: 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. These figures were practical for family road trips with ample floor space, plastic hooks, and an underfloor storage bin.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS’s interior integrated practical storage and generous space across all rows. With the AMG Line package, sports styling elements like side sill trim could be cumbersome. However, the GLS made up for it with supremely comfortable front seats that came with heating, ventilation, and massage programs.

Second-row legroom was expansive, complemented by the no-charge optional captain’s chairs, which, although a bit low, offered excellent support. The panoramic sunroof was standard, adding to the open feel of the cabin. The third-row was tight for adults but adequate for children, with minor adjustments to second-row legroom.

Cargo space in the GLS was also impressive: 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet with the second row folded, and topping out at 84.7 cubic feet with both rows down. This made the GLS practical for various storage needs.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a matching infotainment display, but the lack of touch sensitivity forced reliance on a True Touchpad Interface (TTI). This system included Return and Home buttons, a volume knob, and a radio tuning rocker, but the learning curve and distraction potential made it less user-friendly.

However, the MDX did offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, coupled with Amazon Alexa Built-In for easier command execution via voice. While the native navigation and AcuraLink-connected services enhanced utility, frustration arose from less intuitive voice recognition and cluttered control interfaces.

Acura’s premium sound systems included the Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D system with 25 speakers, delivering high-quality audio. The 10.5-inch head-up display added essential driving information but suffered from occasional inaccuracies.

Conversely, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the latest MBUX infotainment system featuring twin 12.3-inch displays for digital instrumentation and infotainment functions. Improved graphics and modes made it visually appealing and functional. The system offered fast, intuitive touchscreen operations and excellent voice recognition technology. However, touch-sensitive steering wheel controls and an inconvenient center console touchpad could cause frustration by accidentally altering settings.

The MBUX’s strengths lay in its easy-to-navigate touchscreen and superior augmented reality for navigation, making it one of the best in the industry.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured Acura Watch, comprising forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system added extra layers of safety. Still, false alerts and occasional misoperations could unsettle drivers. The MDX earned good crash-test ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted over 20 advanced safety features, all adjustable through the MBUX system for a tailored driving experience. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and forward-collision systems operated smoothly without being intrusive. The GLS excelled in maintaining control across various driving conditions, making it a paragon of advanced driving assistance technology.