2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, which, while understated, promised longevity. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment typical of Mercedes.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, presented a more subdued exterior with its Incognito paint and orange brake calipers. Despite its bold grille and rear haunches, the RX's design was less remarkable. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary space with quality materials and ambient lighting, though some ergonomic controls were less intuitive. The RX focused on comfort and practicality, with ample room for passengers and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the rear seat experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and responsive performance. The GLS featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a variable 4Matic AWD system, with driving modes to tailor dynamics. It had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and achieved 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models, with the RX 350h providing 246 hp and 36 mpg. The RX 450h+ PHEV delivered 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time, while the RX 500h boasted 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned suspension and Direct4 AWD, but its fuel efficiency was lower at 20.9 mpg. The RX 500h excelled in straight-line acceleration but lacked dynamic communication.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with comfortable front seats, a commanding view, and a new steering wheel design. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent support, while the third row was snug for adults. Cargo space was generous, with up to 84.7 cubic feet available.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort, with heated and ventilated front seats and ample rear seat space. However, the front seats felt snug, and the climate system was noisy. The RX provided 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet, though it was less than expected for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. While intuitive, touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. The system included advanced voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Interface. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, steering wheel controls were distracting. The RX included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Mark Levinson audio system, though some features were optional.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 safety features, including adjustable ADAS settings. The systems performed smoothly, with effective adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 with comprehensive ADAS. While generally effective, some features like Traffic Jam Assist raised concerns. The RX received a five-star NHTSA rating but a Poor rating from IIHS for frontal-impact protection.