2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtlety that some might find bordering on mundane. However, this understated style promised longevity, especially when enhanced with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint, creating a sophisticated exterior. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the rich detailing synonymous with Mercedes interiors, making it a luxurious space to spend time.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, emerging with a modern and bold appearance. The flat roof, upright grille, and distinctive “shark fin” C-pillar aligned it more closely with larger Chevrolet models like the Traverse and Suburban. Each trim offered unique styling elements, with the RS trim featuring sporty black mirrors and badges, while the new ACTIV trim showcased dark chrome and all-terrain tires. The interior of the Equinox was equally impressive, with a new layout that eliminated the traditional cowl and relocated the shifter to the steering column, creating a more open center console. The RS trim featured a darker interior with red highlights, while the ACTIV trim offered a lighter “Maple Sugar and Black” theme, enhancing the cabin's appeal.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup provided smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system's integrated starter-generator added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system allowed for tailored driving dynamics, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. The GLS 450 offered a sublime driving experience, with adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributing to its athleticism and comfort.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied with the powertrain, offering 184 lb-ft in front-wheel-drive models and 203 lb-ft in all-wheel-drive versions. The Equinox introduced a continuously variable transmission for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD, the latter providing improved acceleration and reduced noise. The Equinox's ride was generally quiet and comfortable, though highway merges highlighted the engine's limitations. With a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds for AWD models, the Equinox also introduced selectable drive modes, enhancing its versatility for different driving conditions.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wide range of adjustments for optimal comfort. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone automatic climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, though accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome. The GLS offered expansive second-row legroom and a panoramic sunroof, with cargo space measuring 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on RS and ACTIV trims, with front seat ventilation available as part of a package. The Equinox's flat roof provided consistent headroom throughout the cabin, with the moonroof adding light to the rear seats. The cabin's design included a well-placed “dead pedal” for driver comfort. Cargo space was slightly reduced, offering 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded down, with a hidden storage compartment beneath the load floor.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and various instrumentation themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. Despite these issues, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps functionality was particularly effective, allowing for simultaneous infotainment activities. The Equinox's tech features included an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard on RS and ACTIV trims, with no option for an upgraded sound system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) through MBUX. The GLS's ADAS was praised for its effectiveness and subtle operation, handling various driving conditions with ease. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems provided smooth and transparent operation, with only a single instance of temporary deactivation.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package, adding features like rear pedestrian alert and HD surround vision. The Chevy Safety Assist suite included standard features such as rear park assist, lane-change alert, and enhanced automatic emergency braking. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to program speed and volume limitations, providing a report card of driving behavior.