2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Audi Q5

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtle sensuality that, while bordering on the mundane, promised to age gracefully. Our GLS 450 test vehicle, adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, was a testament to this timeless appeal. The interior was equally impressive, featuring a Bahia Brown over Black color scheme, natural-grain Grey Oak trim, and the meticulous detailing Mercedes is renowned for. The GLS 450, the most affordable in its lineup, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience.

In contrast, the 2025 Audi Q5 embraced a more rugged SUV aesthetic, with a large, textured grille and high-mounted headlights that gave it an imposing presence. Despite its evolutionary rather than revolutionary design changes, the Q5 maintained a muscular stance with well-defined lines. Available in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, the Q5 offered LED Headlights Plus and programmable OLED taillights on higher trims. The interior, though somewhat discordant in design, boasted top-notch materials and standard leather seating surfaces. The SQ5 variant added sporty elements like matte chrome trim and larger wheels, enhancing its performance-oriented appeal.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered a compelling performance with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and seamless acceleration. It reached 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by a mild-hybrid system that added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered versatile driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 excelled in towing with a capacity of 7,700 pounds and achieved a fuel economy of 21 mpg in combined driving. Its adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athletic handling, while the brakes ensured smooth stops. The Off-Road menu in MBUX provided additional capabilities for adventurous driving.

The 2025 Audi Q5 featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive, with a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The SQ5 variant offered a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Despite its specs, the Q5 experienced turbo lag and rough shifts, affecting its acceleration. The air suspension, standard on the SQ5, provided capable handling but lacked sportiness. The Q5 offered Off-Road and Off-Road Plus modes, raising the suspension and incorporating hill-descent control, but it was more suited for dirt roads than technical trails.

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, while the third-row seat 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 row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2025 Audi Q5 maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, offering adequate headroom and legroom. The sliding and reclining second-row bench seat and power tailgate were standard, while the Premium Plus trim added a heated steering wheel and panoramic sunroof. The Q5 provided 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 56.9 cubic feet behind the first row, surpassing some rivals. It also offered a towing capacity of 4,400 pounds, exceeding the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic and Lexus NX.

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 intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive areas 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 natural voice recognition and augmented reality navigation were standout features.

The 2025 Audi Q5 came equipped with an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, with a 10.9-inch passenger screen on the Prestige trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a cooled wireless charging pad, and a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system were standard. The MMI infotainment system, based on Android Automotive OS, was user-friendly, though the digital instrument cluster lacked some functionality. The Q5 also featured a head-up display and Dynamic Interaction Light for additional driver cues.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their subtle and smooth operation, handling various driving conditions with ease. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed exceptionally well, with only a minor issue on a two-lane road.

The 2025 Audi Q5 included standard driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, active front assist, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Premium Plus models added a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise assist. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of review, but Audi aimed to match the previous generation’s five-star NHTSA rating.