2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. The GLS 450 test vehicle, adorned with 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, stood out in its Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the rich detailing synonymous with Mercedes. The GLS 450, the entry-level model, was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. The test vehicle, equipped with AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, boasted a luxurious interior with leather upholstery and wood trim, bringing the MSRP to $97,730.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, available in three variants, presented a luxurious appearance with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance contributed to its premium look. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. The test vehicle's cabin was upscale, but ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and non-touchscreen infotainment, detracted from the experience. Despite these flaws, the CX-90 exuded sophistication, offering a compelling option in the midsize three-row crossover SUV segment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided smooth 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 ensured optimal performance, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 offered a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with the Off-Road menu in MBUX and an optional Off-Road Package for the GLS 580.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo, powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six, produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an option for 340 hp using premium gas. An eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-wheel bias, aimed to improve driving dynamics. The CX-90 offered driving modes like Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The i-Stop function aimed to enhance fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. However, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. Despite these issues, the CX-90's ride and handling impressed, though the suspension was firm and communicative.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but posed challenges when entering or exiting the SUV. The front seats, with supple leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs, offered comfort and excellent visibility. 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 access to the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Interior storage was decent, with cargo space offering 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 Mazda CX-90, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the interior quickly. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with height-adjustable armrests. The third row was best suited for children, with limited seat-track travel in the second row. Storage space was limited, with a shallow bin under the center armrest and small trays under the load floor. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded and 74.2 cubic feet with the second row flattened.

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 themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused frustration. Despite these issues, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding natural voice recognition and augmented reality for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology enhanced the audio experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was unreliable, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle's 12-speaker Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience, and the Active Driving Display offered helpful data.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness and subtle operation. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems handled various driving conditions smoothly, with only one instance of the lane-centering assist momentarily turning off.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trim levels added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Cruising and Traffic Support system provided hands-on driving aid but had issues with speed reduction and lane marking discernment. Despite these flaws, the CX-90's driver aids met expectations, though the audible warning systems were excessive.