2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, or 40 ASE, was based on the SR5 Premium trim level. It added $4,505 to the price, with $1,875 covering the standard four-wheel-drive system. The remaining $2,630 bought retro body stripes, a heritage grille design, bronze 17-inch wheels, and other unique features. Available in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior, the 40 ASE had a strong SoCal vibe, reminiscent of the 1970s. The interior, while filled with plastic, felt solid and of quality, with easy-to-use controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 exuded a soft sensuality with its modern design. The test vehicle featured bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a new Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents. The luxurious interior, known for its rich detailing, made the GLS a comfortable and enjoyable place to spend time.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. A five-speed automatic transmission sent power to the rear wheels, with an optional 4WD system available. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in combined driving. During testing, it averaged 16.9 mpg. The 4Runner offered a minimum of nine inches of ground clearance and various off-roading technologies, making it a capable off-road vehicle. However, its on-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration, heavy steering, and a bumpy ride.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and had a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The GLS 450 achieved an official fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 19.9 mpg. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system provided smooth and responsive performance. The adaptive air suspension and large Continental Premium Contact tires contributed to the GLS 450's impressive handling and ride quality.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's back window powered down into the tailgate, providing excellent flow-through ventilation. The interior featured comfortable seats, with the 40 ASE offering heated front cushions and SofTex artificial leather. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and headroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. The optional third-row seat was uncomfortable and reduced cargo space. Without the third-row seat, the 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450's AMG Line package added sportier styling but made entry and exit more challenging. The front seats were comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The second-row captain's chairs offered excellent thigh support and expansive legroom. Accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome, and space was snug for adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was easy to use, even with gloves, and offered several connected services plans. Upgrades included a navigation system and a JBL premium sound system. The voice recognition system performed well, handling most commands accurately.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 came with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and various themes and modes. However, touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause accidental changes. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive and easy to use, with outstanding natural voice recognition and helpful augmented reality for navigation.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trim levels. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Marginal rating from IIHS for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 offered over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems performed well, providing smooth and subtle interventions. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems handled various driving conditions with ease. The only issue encountered was a momentary deactivation of the lane-centering assist on a two-lane road.