2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was a departure from its predecessors, which often resembled dressed-up Ford Expeditions. While it shared some elements with the Expedition, such as side glass and overall footprint, the Navigator stood out with its unique design and luxurious feel. Its elegance and understatement were evident despite its massive size and 22-inch wheels. The Pristine White model, with its monochromatic package and illuminated Lincoln logo, exuded class and sophistication. Inside, the Navigator impressed with its seven colour palettes and modern design, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen, floating centre console, and minimalist digital instrument panel. The materials were of high quality, and the Perfect Position seats offered unparalleled comfort with 30 different adjustments.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more subtle and less flashy appearance in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the gaudy grilles of some competitors. However, buyers could opt for more visual drama with the AMG GLS 63 or Maybach versions, which featured distinctive styling elements and larger wheels. The interior of the GLS was luxurious, with options for reclining rear seats and performance-oriented features in the AMG model. The standard interior, while not as opulent as some, still provided a high-quality feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a remarkable twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, provided the Navigator with impressive acceleration and a satisfying engine note. Its towing capacity was substantial at 3,765 kilograms, making it a capable choice for hauling. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with an average consumption in the double digits, aligning with the estimated 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres combined rating. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt less refined compared to competitors, and the steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an additional boost from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power for the GLS, and the inline-six engine offered a smoother experience compared to V6 engines. The GLS also boasted a standard air suspension, which could adjust ride height and absorb impacts, although it exhibited poor body control over bumps. The GLS 450's towing capacity was 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors. Despite the absence of a V8 engine, the GLS 450 delivered a satisfying performance, but its suspension left room for improvement in terms of comfort and control.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seat. The boxy design provided ample headroom and legroom, and the cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row and up to 2,925 litres with all seats folded. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, although it lacked some advanced features found in German competitors. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. However, parking the Navigator was challenging due to its size, despite the assistance of 360-degree cameras.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, and the GLS offered competitive legroom thanks to its long wheelbase. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS's air suspension made loading and unloading cargo easier, and the power-folding seats and tailgate added convenience. However, some ergonomic issues, such as the touchscreen's reach and centre console design, detracted from the overall experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which felt small compared to newer offerings. While it lacked some advanced features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the software was intuitive and easy to use. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided good sound quality, and the Navigator offered wireless device charging and a rear entertainment system with Roku media streaming. The simplicity of the Lincoln's technology was a welcome contrast to the complexity found in some competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered a range of control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. The GLS also featured augmented-reality navigation, although the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. The graphics were visually appealing, and the optional Burmester audio system and head-up display enhanced the overall experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance. It offered standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional inflatable rear seat belts provided additional safety for second-row passengers. However, the Navigator's adaptive cruise control lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like Crosswind Assist and Pre Safe enhanced safety in various scenarios. However, some advanced driver-assistance features were optional, requiring an extra cost. Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration were not available at the time of publication.