2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs. It presented a purposeful yet understated front end, with an assertive grille and the distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. The Platinum Gray paint added a touch of richness, while the interior showcased elegant materials like two-tone leather, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design, complemented by wood deco inlays, created a clean and beautiful cabin.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality with its modern design. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal exterior accents, all enhanced by the Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the Bahia Brown over Black interior, natural-grain Grey Oak, and polished aluminum accents created a luxurious environment. The front seats offered supreme comfort with heating, ventilation, and massage programs, while the second-row captain’s chairs and expansive legroom added to the overall comfort.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine, featured in our test car, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness, though the gains were minimal. The XC90 offered a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration, a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, and excellent brakes. Despite its bulky dimensions, the XC90 handled well, even in a New Hampshire snowstorm.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, provided 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and seamless acceleration. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system ensured a sublime driving experience. The GLS 450’s adaptive air suspension and massive Continental Premium Contact tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. The Off-Road menu within MBUX and the optional Off-Road Package in the GLS 580 added to its versatility.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s interior was peaceful and pleasant, but Scandinavian minimalism led to some space and storage frustrations. The lack of a dedicated space for a cell phone and the small center console bin were notable drawbacks. The second row was comfortable but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was almost impossible with the middle seat in place. Cargo space was decent, with 12.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 65.5 cubic feet.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, especially with the AMG Line package, had some design quirks, like side sill trim that got in the way. However, the front seats were perfectly comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The second-row captain’s chairs offered excellent thigh support and expansive legroom, though accessing the third row was a hassle. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for kids. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant as standard features. The natural-language recognition was excellent, but the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating. More physical buttons and redundant controls would have been appreciated.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system was fast, easy to use, and offered improved graphics and themes. However, touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and center console touchpad could cause confusion and distraction. Despite these issues, MBUX was a sensational technology with intuitive touchscreen operation, outstanding natural voice recognition, and helpful augmented reality for navigation.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, carrying a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, all as standard equipment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS also came with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were adjustable through MBUX, allowing for customization of alerts and sensitivity. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were effective and non-intrusive. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed smoothly and transparently, handling various driving conditions with ease.