2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Lincoln Navigator

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator, a full-size luxury SUV, maintained its classic design as it awaited an electric transformation. Despite the anticipation of a new chapter, the Navigator continued to offer a familiar experience with its fourth-generation model. The 2023 version saw no major updates, but Lincoln planned to rename the base trim to Premiere in 2024, standardize four-wheel drive, and extend the BlueCruise hands-free driving system subscription. The test vehicle, a triple-black Navigator Reserve, featured a Monochromatic Package with black 22-inch wheels and body-color trim, though keeping it clean proved challenging. Inside, the cabin was upscale with quality materials, but some chrome plastic elements fell short of luxury expectations.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a modern, elegant design with a hint of sensuality. The GLS 450 test vehicle sported bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and Twilight Blue paint, offering a counter-cultural aesthetic to the blacked-out trend. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and rich detailing. The cabin was a comfortable and luxurious space, with the new steering wheel adding to the tactile experience, despite some irritation from touch-sensing controls.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it offered five driving modes: Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, and Deep Conditions. The Navigator averaged 15.6 mpg on a Southern California test loop, below its EPA rating of 18 mpg. While Excite mode improved handling on mountain roads, it negatively impacted fuel efficiency. The Navigator's nearly three-ton weight challenged the brakes, and its size was cumbersome in urban settings.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with a nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD. The GLS offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes, achieving 19.9 mpg on a test loop. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, and the GLS handled mountain roads with agility. The brakes performed well, and the Off-Road menu in MBUX added versatility.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator excelled in functionality, offering spacious seating across three rows and a large cargo area. Power-deploying running boards facilitated entry, and the 30-way Perfect Position front seats provided comfort with heating, ventilation, and massage. However, the numerous adjustments were sometimes overwhelming. The Navigator L model offered expanded cargo space, with up to 120.2 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, equipped with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but had side sill trim that could be inconvenient. The front seats were comfortable with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage. The second-row captain’s chairs offered excellent thigh support, though access to the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with up to 84.7 cubic feet available.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the Sync 4 interface. It included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D Audio System. The digital assistant performed well, but the wireless charger overheated phones. Lincoln Play offered rear-seat entertainment, though it was underutilized by passengers.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls caused occasional frustration. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos provided impressive audio quality. MBUX excelled in intuitive operation and voice recognition, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Navigator came with Lincoln Co-Pilot360 2.0, featuring advanced driving assistance systems like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist. BlueCruise offered hands-free driving on designated highways but struggled with certain conditions. The Navigator received a 5-star side-impact rating and a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS included over 20 safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The ADAS performed smoothly, with effective forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various road conditions well, with only minor issues during testing.