2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

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 aged gracefully, especially when enhanced with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille design, polished metal exterior accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint color, creating a striking visual appeal. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior color scheme, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, embodying the rich detailing Mercedes interiors were known for.

In contrast, the 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in size while retaining its body-on-frame architecture. The new frame improved torsional and lateral stiffness significantly. The QX80's styling became more expressive, with a prominent grille and a stacked-headlight setup that gave it an imposing look. The rear end retained its general shape but featured full-width LED taillights, enhancing its modern appeal. Inside, the QX80 received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and 64-color ambient lighting, although the shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel. The interior offered various leather options, with the top Autograph models featuring semi-aniline leather across all three rows.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup provided smooth and seamless acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system's integrated starter-generator delivered an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle's lively feel from a stop. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system ensured optimal performance, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual allowing for tailored dynamics. The GLS 450 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, replacing the previous 5.6-liter V8. This new engine produced 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The QX80 felt more energetic than its predecessor, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise to the cabin. The air suspension and adaptive damping provided a compliant ride, with an off-road setting increasing ground clearance by 2.1 inches. Despite its reinforced frame, the QX80's handling remained average for a large body-on-frame SUV, with its considerable weight and 22-inch wheels unable to completely erase bumps.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs for the front seats. The new steering wheel was comfortable to grip, though its touch-sensing controls could be irritating. 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, 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 INFINITI QX80's redesign increased cargo space significantly, offering 22 cubic feet with all rows in place, 59 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 101 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and power-folding second- and third-row seats, with controls conveniently located in the cargo area and on the infotainment touchscreens. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats were available, and the QX80 boasted a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.

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, although touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and center console could cause confusion. Despite this, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation system.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen handling additional controls. The QX80 was the first Infiniti model with Google built-in apps, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although the graphics were reminiscent of Nissan vehicles. All QX80 models came with Klipsch sound systems, with higher trims offering a 24-speaker version with Individual Audio tech.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features, with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) adjustable through MBUX. The forward-collision warning system, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist were praised for their effectiveness and subtlety. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed well on various road conditions, providing smooth and transparent operation.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and a trailer blind-spot warning system. The QX80 offered ProPilot Assist highway-driving assistance, with the more advanced version allowing for hands-free driving and automated lane changes.