2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser

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. The GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 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 featured a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the rich detailing Mercedes interiors were known for, making it a luxurious space to spend time.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, with the base 1958 model featuring a retro look reminiscent of its early days. The more upscale Land Cruiser model, however, presented a modern appearance with additional color options and a more refined interior. Our test vehicle, equipped with the Premium Package, boasted Heritage Blue and Grayscape paint, 20-inch wheels, and a roof rack, enhancing its adventurous appeal. The interior, though utilitarian, was upgraded with Java-colored leather and dual 12.3-inch digital screens, providing a blend of traditional and modern elements.

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 nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered a choice of driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual, allowing for tailored vehicle dynamics. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its impressive handling, while the Off-Road menu within MBUX provided additional off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid system, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This power was managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. Despite an official EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, real-world testing yielded only 15.7 mpg. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road conditions, with features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control, but its handling on twisty roads was less impressive due to its suspension tuning and tire setup.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a new steering wheel design. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, while the third-row seat, though snug for adults, was suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, accessing the third row was cumbersome, especially in inclement weather.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, particularly with the Premium Package, featured real leather upholstery and a power sunroof. While the front seats were comfortable, the second-row seats lacked support, and the high load floor made loading heavy items challenging. The Land Cruiser offered 46.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 82.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The rear window design was less practical compared to the 4Runner, and the center console's cool box seemed unnecessary.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays with improved graphics and themes. Despite its intuitive operation, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. The system included a Burmester surround-sound system and augmented reality navigation, making it a standout in automotive technology.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, with the Premium Package, upgraded to dual 12.3-inch displays and included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system offered a cloud-based navigation system and a digital assistant, enhancing the driving experience. The Premium Package also added a JBL sound system, wireless charger, and digital key technology, providing a comprehensive tech suite.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that could be adjusted through MBUX. The systems operated smoothly and transparently, providing a reassuring driving experience. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions with ease, though there was a brief instance of deactivation on a complex road.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a range of ADAS features such as forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. While the system generally performed well, it struggled in certain conditions, such as bright sunlight and curvy roads. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with mixed results in specific tests.