2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. 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, the most affordable in the lineup, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience. The test vehicle, equipped with AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, had an MSRP of $97,730, including destination charges.

The 2025 Honda Pilot, particularly in the Black Edition trim, presented a more rugged aesthetic with black wheels, blacked-out exterior trim, and black badges. Inside, the Pilot featured black leather seats with red perforation accents, red contrast stitching, and ambient lighting, creating a unique atmosphere. The Pilot's design aimed for a rugged look, especially with the TrailSport trim, but the Black Edition was more suited for suburban environments. The interior was thoughtfully designed with practical storage solutions, though the digital displays appeared dated. The Pilot Black Edition, evaluated in Southern California, had an MSRP of $55,975, including destination charges.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered a compelling performance with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and swift 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 versatility with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though it achieved 19.9 mpg during testing. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. The Off-Road menu in MBUX and the optional Off-Road Package in the GLS 580 enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, generating 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It offered multiple driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The Pilot's AWD system provided hill descent control and up to 7.3 inches of ground clearance, with torque vectoring capabilities. While the V6 offered good acceleration, the transmission occasionally felt slow to downshift. The Pilot averaged 20 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA rating. The suspension provided a soft ride, though an adaptive-damping system would benefit higher trims. The Pilot's handling was predictable, and its steering and braking systems were well-calibrated. The TrailSport trim confirmed the Pilot's off-road capabilities, though it wasn't tested in the Black Edition.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wide range of adjustments. The front seats provided a commanding view, while the new steering wheel was comfortable to grip. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs offered excellent thigh support, though accessing the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. The GLS provided decent interior storage and practical cargo space, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seats and practical storage solutions. The Black Edition's front row featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, though the front passenger seat lacked adjustability. The second-row seats were roomy, with a removable center section for easy access to the third row. The third row was habitable for adults, though not particularly comfortable. The Pilot offered a triple-zone climate control system, heated second-row seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was generous, with 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 86.5 cubic feet.

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 themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. The MBUX system was otherwise intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided impressive audio quality.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with smaller display screens compared to rivals. The Black Edition featured a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and wireless charging. The voice recognition system was inconsistent, and the Bose audio system was adequate but not exceptional. The Pilot included a CabinTalk feature for communication with rear passengers and a small head-up display, meeting basic technology expectations.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness and subtle operation. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed well on various road conditions, with only a single instance of temporary deactivation.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was equipped with Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Black Edition also had parking sensors and a multi-view camera system. However, the adaptive cruise control occasionally struggled in traffic, and the lane-centering assist system affected steering feel. The Pilot earned high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.