Mercedes-Benz GLS vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels tailored to different powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. The exterior design retained the large spindle grille and featured sharp bi-LED headlights, while the rear showcased LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX provided ambient lighting and suede trim, but the material quality fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics present. The redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a unique touch, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

In contrast, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS underwent significant updates, including a new front end with a galaxy-like grille and star-themed lighting elements. The facelifted model featured a more blinged-out appearance, making it less likely to be overshadowed by competitors like the Escalade or Range Rover. The interior boasted a bold Superscreen display spanning the dashboard, though it lacked charm. The fit and finish remained high, with standard leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof. The GLS offered a range of models, from the six-cylinder GLS 450 4Matic to the ultra-luxury Maybach GLS 680, each with distinct styling cues.

The 2026 Lexus TX provided a versatile driving experience with its range of powertrains. The base model delivered 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, while the 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The TX offered various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, allowing drivers to tailor their experience. The 550h+ excelled in providing a quiet and smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. Its AWD system offered flexibility, distributing power between the front and rear wheels as needed, and a Trail Mode enhanced traction on slippery surfaces.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured updated powertrains for improved responsiveness and reduced noise. The GLS 450's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six produced 375 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the GLS 580's twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 delivered 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 680 offered even higher outputs. The GLS 580 impressed with its quick acceleration, achieving 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The optional E-Active Body Control system provided a well-cushioned ride, counteracting pitch and roll, and offered features like load leveling and off-road height adjustment.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating full-sized adults comfortably. However, folding the second row flat required a specific sequence of lever flips, which could be cumbersome. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support, and the center console's dual-opening lid limited access. The TX excelled in cargo space, offering 20.2 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided ample headroom and legroom across all three rows, with the option to swap second-row captain's chairs for a bench. The front seats were comfortable, though tall drivers might struggle to find an ideal driving position. The optional Executive Rear Seat Package Plus added luxury features like massaging seats and sun blinds. The third row included USB ports and heated seats, while a five-zone climate control system ensured comfort for all occupants. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen with quick responsiveness, though some features lacked polish. The steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The backup camera provided a clear view, and the Advanced Park system assisted with parking. The TX offered seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet for larger devices.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS introduced the Superscreen, a dashboard-spanning display with three 12.3-inch screens. The MBUX infotainment system, based on Mercedes' MB.OS, offered a familiar interface with enhancements. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained, and the voice recognition system received AI improvements. The front-passenger screen provided entertainment options, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system added 11.6-inch screens. A 15-speaker Burmester audio system was standard, with a 26-speaker option available.

The 2026 Lexus TX came equipped with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Proactive Driving Assist gently applied brakes or steering when necessary, though it could be overly sensitive. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though it was slow to resume speed in stop-and-go traffic. The TX 350 and 500h earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave it an "Acceptable" score for the driver's side small overlap front crash test.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard driver-assistance features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. Optional features included steering assist, lane-change assist, and a surround-view camera system. Mercedes' Pre-Safe system minimized injury potential in a collision, while Pre-Safe Sound protected against hearing loss. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of writing.