2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was characterized by its modernist and reductive design, emphasizing clean and simple lines. Despite its understated appearance, it offered a touch of flair with options like Firenze Red paint and diamond-turned 23-inch wheels. The test vehicle, in Eiger Gray with silver wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuded a subtle elegance. Inside, the Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and black trim provided an air of understated luxury. The Range Rover Sport featured advanced design elements such as premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and surface LED technology taillights, enhancing its aerodynamic profile.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS embraced a softer, more sensual design that aged gracefully. The GLS 450 test vehicle sported 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver grille, and Twilight Blue paint, offering a counter-cultural aesthetic to the blacked-out trend. Inside, the Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak trim and polished aluminum accents showcased Mercedes' attention to detail. The GLS provided a comfortable and luxurious environment, with features like heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system, ensuring a pleasant experience for all occupants.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement and driver engagement. It offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the SE Dynamic model. The SUV could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and tow up to 7,716 pounds. Despite its off-road prowess, the Range Rover Sport struggled to match the agility of sport-tuned competitors on winding roads. Its adaptive damping air suspension and Dynamic driving mode improved ride comfort and handling, but the steering lacked involvement, and body roll was noticeable in tight curves. Off-road, the Range Rover Sport excelled with features like Terrain Response and a 35.4-inch wading depth.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The GLS provided a smooth and responsive driving experience, with a nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Its adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to impressive handling on twisty roads. The GLS also offered an Off-Road menu within MBUX for enhanced off-road capability.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained its Command Driving Position, offering a tall and airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats provided comfort with 20-way adjustments and heating and ventilation. However, the rear seat was less accommodating, with limited legroom and a reclined seatback angle. Cargo space was practical, with 31.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 53 cubic feet. Storage solutions included a deep bin under the center armrest and a second bin under the cupholder tray.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with supple leather surfaces and massaging front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, and the GLS featured expansive legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Accessing the third row was challenging, but it offered decent leg support for children. Cargo space was generous, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet. Interior storage was decent, though the bin under the front center armrest was small.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport came with a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the Pivi Pro infotainment platform offered features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it was often confusing and frustrating to use. The Meridian audio systems and Active Noise Cancellation enhanced the driving experience, but the digital assistant struggled with voice commands.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. MBUX offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause accidental changes. The system excelled in natural voice recognition and augmented reality navigation, providing a seamless user experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control and steering assist were not as smooth or reliable as expected, especially on freeway curves with inconsistent lane markings.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The ADAS performed smoothly and effectively, handling various driving conditions with ease. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist provided subtle and transparent operation, enhancing driver confidence.