2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Audi Q5

The 2023 Audi Q5 presented a blend of elegance and sportiness with its exterior design, featuring subtle curves and angular accents. It was available in two body styles: the standard SUV and the Q5 Sportback, which had a sloping rear roofline for a sleeker look. The Sportback's design included a spoiler-like element above the taillights, providing a more defined transition from hatch to tail section, unlike some competitors with awkward rear ends. Inside, the Q5 offered a refined yet simple layout, though its age was noticeable since its last redesign was five years prior. Standard features included leather seating and heated front seats, with options for a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The 10-inch touchscreen was smaller compared to rivals, but materials quality remained good, even as non-luxury brands improved their offerings.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a modern design with a touch of sensuality, especially when upgraded with 22-inch AMG rims and a new silver grille. The Twilight Blue paint added to its allure. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak accents, polished aluminum, and rich detailing typical of Mercedes. The GLS 450 was the entry-level model, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The test vehicle included AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, enhancing its luxury feel. The MSRP reached $97,730 with these additions, including destination charges.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine choices. The base 40 TFSI was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The midrange 45 TFSI increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft, available with the Q5 Sportback. The 55 TFSI plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, offering 23 miles of electric-only range. All models featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro AWD. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a delay in power delivery, affecting initial acceleration. However, handling was sporty, with precise steering and a balance between compliance and cornering. The cabin remained quiet, meeting luxury standards.

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. The mild-hybrid system added 148 lb-ft of torque instantly, enhancing responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered driving mode selections, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. The driving experience was quiet and quick, with adaptive air suspension allowing for impressive handling. The GLS excelled in comfort and control, even on twisty roads, with excellent grip from its massive tires.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design remained largely unchanged since 2018, with a well-placed infotainment touchscreen and traditional controls for climate settings. Visibility was good, aided by a narrow front roof pillar. The cabin offered ample space for taller passengers, with minimal headroom reduction in the Sportback model. Storage options were varied but sometimes oddly sized. Cargo space was 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, slightly reduced in the Sportback.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but had side sill trim that could be inconvenient. The front seats were comfortable, with heating, ventilation, and massage options. The steering wheel, though delightful to grip, had touch-sensing controls that could be irritating. 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 third-row access was cumbersome. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Audi Q5 came with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses, though Apple CarPlay activation was slow. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a Bang & Olufsen audio system on higher trims. Audi Connect Care allowed remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app, with a limited-time subscription. Mid-range trims featured a customizable digital instrument panel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and various themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, with four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ with "Good" ratings in all crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera, and more advanced features.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 significant safety features. The ADAS could be adjusted through MBUX for sensitivity and alerts. The forward-collision warning system was effective without being intrusive, and lane-departure warnings were distinct. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions smoothly. The GLS's safety technology was praised for its transparency and effectiveness.