2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, redesigned and tested in Santa Barbara, California, presented a subtle exterior that closely resembled its non-hybrid counterpart. The RX 350h Luxury model, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch wheels, lacked any overt hybrid branding, which was a preference for those who favored understated elegance. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling, signaling its performance-oriented nature. Despite its popularity, the RX maintained a somewhat blunt-nosed appearance, with a design that seemed front-heavy due to its wheelbase stretch and signature rear roof pillar.

Inside, the RX adopted a minimalist approach, featuring a new infotainment system that improved upon its predecessor. The RX 350h Luxury model boasted Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, exuding luxury, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a sportier, all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim. The RX's interior was modern, with ambient lighting and contemporary textures, though pricing details were not disclosed.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with its modern design, showcased a refined exterior that aged gracefully. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver grille, and Twilight Blue paint, offering a counter-cultural aesthetic against the blacked-out trend. Inside, the GLS 450 impressed with a Bahia Brown over Black interior, natural-grain Grey Oak, and polished aluminum accents, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment.

The GLS 450, the most affordable in its lineup, housed a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and seamless performance. The GLS's nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system enhanced its driving dynamics, while its adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athleticism. The GLS also featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital panel and touchscreen, offering improved graphics and intuitive operation, despite some touch-sensitive control frustrations.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a range of powertrains, with the RX 350h producing 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It achieved 60 mph in 7.4 seconds and was expected to average 36 mpg in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Despite its performance, it averaged only 20.9 mpg during testing, falling short of its estimated 27 mpg.

The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension, Dynamic Rear Steering, and Active Sound Control, enhancing its driving experience. The RX 350h, with its lower center of gravity and electric assist motor, provided a secure and comfortable ride, averaging 32 mpg. The RX 500h's Sport mode offered an engaging drive, though accessing it required navigating the infotainment system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, provided smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Its mild-hybrid system added 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing its responsiveness. The GLS's nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered tailored driving modes, with a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. During testing, it averaged 19.9 mpg.

The GLS 450 delivered a sublime driving experience, with its adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributing to its athleticism. The brakes performed admirably, and the Off-Road menu in MBUX provided a transparent view of the terrain, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered comfort and practicality, with the RX 350h Luxury model featuring ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The hybrids' battery placement under the rear seat provided excellent leg support but limited headroom. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with its AMG Line package, offered sportier styling but posed challenges when entering or exiting. The front seats, with heating, ventilation, and massage programs, provided comfort and a commanding view. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs offered excellent thigh support, while the third-row access was cumbersome. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The Lexus Interface offered cloud-based navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, though it had limitations. The touchscreen allowed only one menu view at a time, and reflections were an issue. The head-up display, with dual-function touch-sensing control pads, posed challenges for users with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted the latest MBUX infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch displays offering improved graphics and themes. Despite some touch-sensitive control frustrations, MBUX was intuitive and featured outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The touchpad on the center console was a minor annoyance, but overall, MBUX was a model of effective technology.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were notable features, though some systems had limitations, such as the curve-speed reduction tech and driver monitoring system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The ADAS systems, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist, operated smoothly and effectively. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions with ease, providing a seamless experience.