2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised to age gracefully. 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 finish. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450 was the entry-level model, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. Our test vehicle included the AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, among other upgrades, bringing the MSRP to $97,730.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid, starting at $33,700, offered a more budget-friendly electrified SUV option. The Sport Touring Hybrid model, priced at $41,175, featured Canyon River Blue paint and blacked-out exterior trim for a sporty look. The CR-V's design was conservative, with a technical front resembling an angry robot, but it had an upscale rear-quarter view. Inside, the Sport Touring Hybrid had leather seats with orange contrast stitching and quality details like metal mesh air vent covers. The CR-V Hybrid's cabin was sophisticated for a compact SUV, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered a smooth and powerful performance with its 375-horsepower turbocharged inline-six engine. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by a mild-hybrid system providing an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered driving mode options, 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, though our test achieved 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. The Off-Road menu in MBUX provided a transparent view of the terrain, enhancing off-road capability.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a fourth-generation two-motor hybrid drive system, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. This setup delivered 204 horsepower to the front or all four wheels. The CR-V Hybrid's EPA rating was 37 mpg in combined driving, but our test returned 32.4 mpg. The CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid offered a compliant ride with predictable handling, though the steering effort was heavy. The brakes performed well during our test-drive, but the hybrid system's complexity didn't translate to significant fuel economy gains compared to the non-hybrid CR-V.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a commanding view. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, but accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults, but kids would find it more comfortable. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid excelled in form and function, offering quality materials, intuitive controls, and comfortable seating. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provided excellent support, while the rear seat was spacious and comfortable for adults. The CR-V's cargo area offered 34.7 cubic feet in the Sport Touring model, with a maximum of 76.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The wide-opening rear doors made it easy to install child safety seats, and the CR-V provided ample storage throughout the cabin.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and themes, but touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided impressive audio quality. MBUX's intuitive touchscreen operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation were standout features.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid came with a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Sport Touring trim included a 9-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was basic, and the CR-V Hybrid featured a walk-away automatic locking feature for added convenience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) performed smoothly, with effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems handled various driving conditions with ease, providing a seamless driving experience.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid included Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. The CR-V Hybrid's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed well, though there was a minor issue with lane-departure warning accuracy. The CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS for 2023.