2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, having undergone a redesign in 2022, maintained its modern aesthetic into 2023 with minimal changes. Its design featured futuristic headlights and an angular C-pillar, blending traditional elements with forward-thinking style. This approach resulted in an SUV that was expected to remain visually relevant for years. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a cabin with clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical for everyday use. The various trims, from S to Platinum, provided a range of features, from basic comforts to luxurious upgrades, catering to different consumer needs.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality in its design, which, while bordering on boring, aged gracefully. The GLS 450 test vehicle showcased bright-finish 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint color. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and rich detailing typical of Mercedes interiors. The GLS offered a range of trims, from the GLS 450 with a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine to the more powerful GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, each with varying power ratings and luxurious features.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Rock Creek variant offered a slight power boost, delivering 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was managed through a 9-speed automatic transmission, with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which Nissan labeled as 4WD. The Rock Creek model aimed to enhance off-road capabilities with a taller suspension and off-road shocks, though the ride on highways was rougher due to the off-road tires. The Pathfinder's engine provided ample power for city and highway driving, though the new shifter design was criticized for being unintuitive. The vehicle featured a rotary drive mode dial with various settings, including an All-Terrain mode in the Rock Creek, and offered a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds with optional equipment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by an integrated starter-generator providing an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 450's nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. It boasted a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The GLS 450 provided a sublime driving experience, with its adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributing to its athleticism, though some oscillations were noted on uneven roads. The brakes performed admirably, and the Off-Road menu within MBUX offered a transparent view of the terrain, enhancing off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat. With the second row in use, it provided 45 cubic feet, and with all seats upright, 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space. While this was average among midsize three-row SUVs, it fell slightly short of competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The first two rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults on shorter trips. The optional second-row captain’s chairs facilitated access to the third row, and the vehicle featured numerous cupholders and storage compartments. The Rock Creek model's roof racks were practical, though snow removal could be challenging due to their proximity to the roof.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling that could be cumbersome when entering or exiting the vehicle. The front seats, with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs, offered exceptional comfort and visibility. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone automatic climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs, though low, provided excellent thigh support, and the GLS offered expansive legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Accessing the third row was cumbersome, and space was snug for adults, though children would find it adequate. Interior storage was decent, with practical cargo space offering 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with larger 9-inch screens available on higher trims. While the system was user-friendly, some found the graphics dated. The Pathfinder included four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice recognition. Higher trims added features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and additional USB ports, ensuring connectivity and convenience, though it lacked cutting-edge tech compared to newer models.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and various themes and modes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause accidental changes. Despite these issues, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation. The standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology enhanced the audio experience, making MBUX a standout feature in the GLS.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder included standard driver assistance features such as forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist with lane centering and adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, a 360-degree parking monitor, and a head-up display. The Pathfinder's safety features were comprehensive, providing confidence on and off the road.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX for personalized settings. The advanced driving assistance systems were praised for their effectiveness and subtle operation, handling various driving conditions with ease. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed smoothly, with only a minor issue noted during testing. Overall, the GLS's safety technology was outstanding, offering a reassuring driving experience.