2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS continued the legacy of its predecessors with a refined and luxurious design. Originally introduced as the GL-Class, the GLS evolved into a more sophisticated and tech-savvy SUV. Its exterior featured softened angles and lines, creating a sleeker appearance despite its large size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its reliance on advanced technology. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Each trim offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a premium sound system, with various option packages available for added luxury.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a successful design evolution for Volvo, maintaining its traditional styling while adding character. The XC90's exterior retained a boxy profile and a blunt front end, but with softer lines and distinctive LED headlights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch wheels, was the most eye-catching. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism, offering a clean and thoughtfully arranged interior. The use of matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options, like wool, added to its charm. The XC90's interior was spacious, with a power moonroof enhancing the sense of openness, although some seats lacked support.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, despite its substantial weight. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, providing a smooth ride and precise handling. Multiple drive modes allowed for customization of throttle response, transmission mapping, and suspension stiffness.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The base T5 was turbocharged, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 added supercharging, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric assist, achieving 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The T5 came with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive was standard on the T6 and T8. Despite its power, the XC90 struggled with acceleration, especially in all-electric mode. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, although some competitors offered more.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, accommodating up to seven passengers. Optional second-row captain's chairs reduced seating capacity to six. The front and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS had 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The GLS featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and some seats lacked support. The XC90's interior felt spacious, thanks to a power moonroof and upright roof profile. The Inscription trim offered 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with all rear seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touchscreen and a trackpad for control. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The MBUX system offered voice control, activated by saying "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system had a learning curve but offered extensive customization options.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system emphasized simplicity. It came with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a WiFi hotspot. The touchscreen was easy to use, with a tablet-like interface, although some menus were difficult to read while driving. The XC90 lacked many analog controls, but the touchscreen's functionality compensated for this. A wireless charging pad was added for 2021, but it was too small for most phones.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. It also offered automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Volvo's Pilot Assist combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, providing smooth and responsive assistance, although it struggled with highway curves.