2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its more ostentatious competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently avoided the flashy grilles seen on models like the BMW X7 and Lexus LX, opting for a more subtle design in the base GLS 450. However, for those seeking a bit more flair, the AMG GLS 63 performance model offered enhanced visual drama with flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips. The Maybach version took luxury to another level with chrome accents, a traditional hood ornament, and massive 23-inch wheels. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with features like leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting, although the test car's interior was relatively basic by GLS standards. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

The 2023 Acura MDX, available in standard and Type S versions, offered a range of trim packages to enhance its equipment levels. The Type S model, in particular, aimed to deliver a more dynamic driving experience with its turbocharged V6 engine and performance-oriented features. The MDX Type S featured subtle design elements, such as chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets, giving it a sporty yet refined appearance. Inside, the Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it challenging to use certain controls. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV, offering a comfortable and stylish interior.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, supported by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the electric motor in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine provided smooth and balanced performance, making it a suitable choice for a luxury SUV. However, the suspension left something to be desired, as it exhibited poor body control and excessive motion over bumps and corners. The GLS 450 offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S aimed to provide a thrilling driving experience with its performance enhancements, including a solid front suspension stabilizer bar, Electro-Servo brakes, and larger front brake rotors. However, the performance upgrades didn't fully come together, resulting in an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience, and its fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the second-row bench with individual captain's chairs. The GLS provided excellent second-row legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase, and competitive cargo space measurements. With all seats in place, the GLS offered 355 litres of cargo space, 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.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seats with flexible second-row seating options, allowing for two or three seating positions. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather upholstery. The MDX's second-row seat could slide forward and back to create more space for third-row passengers, although the legroom was not as generous as expected. The MDX offered a decent amount of cargo space, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The Type S included a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function for added convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome to use, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console. The TTI design posed challenges, as it required learning a new system and reduced available storage space. Fortunately, the MDX offered Bluetooth and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, along with Amazon Alexa Built-In for voice commands. The MDX also included a high-end audio system with 25 speakers, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision. However, some advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system, were optional. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a robust set of safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. The MDX also included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. The MDX received good crash-test ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the MDX's safety systems occasionally issued false warnings, and the adaptive cruise control could be slow to resume speed.