2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtlety that some might find bordering on mundane. However, this understated style aged gracefully, especially when enhanced with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille design, polished metal exterior accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint color, creating a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior color scheme, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, making it a luxurious and inviting space.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented a significant evolution in design rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation but with a bulkier and more industrial personality. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases that blended seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the 4Runner a broad-shouldered stance. Inside, the cabin echoed the beveled styling motif, offering a purposeful yet comfortable environment. While the materials were more rugged, they were of higher quality than those found in competitors like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, though not quite as refined as the Land Rover Defender.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup provided smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system ensured optimal performance, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual allowing for tailored dynamics. The GLS 450 offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though real-world testing yielded 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its impressive handling and braking capabilities.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine options. The standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available. The more powerful i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain combined the four-cylinder engine with a 1.87-kWh battery pack and an electric motor, producing 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid variant provided stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's improved handling and quieter interior made it more composed on pavement, while its off-road prowess remained intact. Towing capacity ranged from 5,800 to 6,000 pounds, depending on the trim.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wide range of adjustments. The front seats provided excellent comfort and visibility, while the new steering wheel was a pleasure to grip, despite its touch-sensing controls causing occasional irritation. The second-row captain’s chairs, though low, offered excellent thigh support and expansive legroom. However, accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome, and space was snug for adults. 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 behind the front seats.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, with its longer wheelbase, offered minimal gains in passenger space. The front seats accommodated taller passengers comfortably, but the middle row provided only adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped and lacked thigh support. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and grouped off-road controls for easy operation. Storage options included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and further reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the Hybrid model due to the raised floor. A sturdy roof rack compensated for any cargo deficits.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and various instrumentation themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding natural voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a larger 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad were offered. Off-road models featured external camera views and on-screen menus for detailed information. A 14-speaker JBL audio system and remote monitoring through a smartphone app were available, marking a significant tech upgrade for the 4Runner.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness and subtlety, with features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control performing seamlessly during testing.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner included the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, with features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Proactive Driving Assist feature, which automatically slowed the vehicle on curves, could be disabled if desired. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional. Crash test results were not yet available, but the Tacoma, on which the 4Runner is based, received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.