2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Acura MDX

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, which, while understated, promised longevity. 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. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450, the entry-level model, came with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. Upgrades to the GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600 provided more power with a twin-turbo V8. The test vehicle, equipped with several packages, had an MSRP of $97,730.

The 2025 Acura MDX received subtle exterior updates, including a new grille and darkened lights, enhancing its sporty appeal. Interior changes were more significant, with a new touchscreen infotainment system replacing the previous touchpad interface, offering more storage. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims gained seats from the Type S model, while the Type S received a new design. Enhanced sound insulation improved cabin quietness. The MDX maintained its reputation for quality, though the gloss black plastic trim was prone to collecting dust. Controls were logically placed, with easy access to essential features. The new A-Spec Advance trim, priced at $69,950, combined luxury with a sporty look, while the base model started at $50,900.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft 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 responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered driving mode selections, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The adaptive air suspension provided a comfortable ride, while massive tires contributed to its athleticism. The GLS also featured an Off-Road menu for adventurous driving.

The 2025 Acura MDX, with its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, produced 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX offered front-wheel drive, with optional torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The SUV provided a comfortable ride with various driving modes, though fuel economy dropped to 18.4 mpg during testing. The MDX handled mountain roads confidently, with smooth body motions and reliable braking. It offered a firm and communicative city drive, with swift acceleration for merging onto highways. The MDX Type S Advance, with air suspension, increased ground clearance but was not suited for off-roading.

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 offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The GLS provided excellent visibility and a new steering wheel design. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs offered thigh support, while the third-row was snug for adults. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a foldable middle section for storage. The MDX offered ample legroom and a triple-zone climate control system. The third-row seat was challenging for adults but suitable for children. Interior storage was adequate, with a new center console tray and wireless charging pad. Cargo volume was 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and various themes but had touch-sensitive controls that could be accidentally triggered. The Burmester surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality. MBUX was intuitive, with natural voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system was intuitive, with digital voice assistants and wireless connectivity. AcuraLink connected services and a Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The MDX featured Bang & Olufsen audio systems, with up to 31 speakers in the Type S Advance. The infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) provided smooth and subtle operation, with effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions with ease.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch driver assistance with improved accuracy. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. AcuraWatch 360, exclusive to the Type S Advance, added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though SH-AWD models lacked a rollover resistance rating.