2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Cadillac Escalade

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a towering presence, standing nearly six-and-a-half feet tall and stretching up to 19 feet in length. It was designed as a motorized cargo container with three rows of leather seats and advanced technology. The Escalade ESV extended this further by 15 inches, primarily in the wheelbase. Its imposing size made it a vehicle for show, appealing to a diverse range of drivers from pop musicians to large families. Despite its bulk, the Escalade managed to appear athletic, thanks to design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome on the Sport Platinum trim. The interior boasted a luxurious first row with a 38-inch curved screen and high-quality wood trim, though some components borrowed from cheaper GM vehicles detracted from its overall luxury feel.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a softer, more sensual design that aged gracefully. The GLS 450 model featured bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak trim, aluminum accents, and the rich detailing Mercedes is known for. The GLS 450 was the entry-level model, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The vehicle offered a range of upgrades, including the AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, enhancing its luxury appeal. The interior was comfortable and well-appointed, with features like heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade offered a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, suitable for towing up to 8,200 pounds. However, its acceleration felt heavy, and the 10-speed automatic transmission was more responsive in gentle cruising than in Sport mode. The Escalade-V variant addressed acceleration with a supercharged V8 producing 682 hp, but it seemed excessive. An optional 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provided smoother torque and better fuel economy at 22 mpg combined. The Escalade's 4WD system was basic, requiring manual engagement for low-traction surfaces. Its magnetic dampers and optional air suspension improved maneuverability, though wind noise was noticeable at highway speeds.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, delivered smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing its lively feel. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered driving modes like Eco, Comfort, and Sport. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and achieved 21 mpg combined. Its adaptive air suspension and large tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes provided smooth stops. The GLS also featured an Off-Road menu for enhanced terrain navigation.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 25 cubic feet behind the third row, 73 cubic feet behind the second, and 121 cubic feet with both rows down. The Escalade ESV offered even more space, maxing out at 143 cubic feet. The independent rear suspension allowed for generous headroom and legroom in all rows. The controls were user-friendly, with a smart touchscreen interface and optional features like a front console refrigerator. Power-retractable side steps and an air suspension facilitated access and cargo loading.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but had side sill trim that could be cumbersome. The front seats were comfortable with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. 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, though accessing the third row was challenging. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second, and 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a vast array of OLED screens across the dash, providing sharp and clear displays. Its Super Cruise system offered hands-free highway driving, using infrared eye-tracking cameras for safety. The Escalade also included night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a high-res front camera display and various entertainment options.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could be frustrating. Despite this, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology enhanced the audio experience.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade received four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for front-passenger protection and rollover resistance. It included standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking and a Safety Alert seat. Optional features included reverse emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Super Cruise.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The ADAS provided effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed smoothly, handling various driving conditions with ease.