2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport was introduced as a smaller sibling to the much-anticipated Bronco, capturing the rugged spirit of its predecessor while offering a more urban-friendly design. It featured a modern retro aesthetic reminiscent of Land Rover, with short front and rear overhangs for improved off-road capability. The Bronco Sport's design was characterized by its tall fender wells and minimal adornment, making it suitable for trail driving. The bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, along with a modest Ford badge, added to its distinctive look. The interior was rugged yet tasteful, with a focus on functionality, including an 8-inch infotainment screen and a rotary gear selector. The trim levels offered a progression from cloth to leather-trimmed seats, catering to different preferences.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated luxury compared to its flashier competitors. The base GLS 450 model avoided excessive chrome, while the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered more dramatic styling with flared arches and chrome accents. The interior of the GLS was luxurious, with options for reclining rear seats and performance-oriented features in the AMG version. The standard digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-tech feel. Despite its luxury, the GLS maintained a rugged touch with rectangular air vents, and the overall design was high quality without being overly delicate.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine options, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims featured a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. The Badlands model boasted a more powerful 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, thanks to its short wheelbase, independent suspension, and generous ground clearance. It also featured a terrain management system with up to seven G.O.A.T. modes, enhancing its versatility. While the 1.5-litre engine was adequate for daily driving, the 2.0-litre engine better matched the vehicle's adventurous character.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. The GLS lineup also included models with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, offering up to 603 horsepower in the AMG version. All GLS models featured 4Matic all-wheel drive, with the AMG GLS 63 having a performance-tuned drivetrain. Despite its power, the GLS 450's suspension lacked refinement, exhibiting excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport was designed with active buyers in mind, offering clever features beyond the typical compact crossover. Its cargo space was engineered to accommodate two 27.5-inch-wheel mountain bikes, and Ford provided a wide range of accessories for outdoor enthusiasts. The roof could support up to 68 kilograms, and the vehicle's towing capacity varied between 907 and 997 kilograms, depending on the engine. The cargo area featured a flip-up rear glass and an optional cargo management package with a slide-out work table and inverter. The interior offered ample storage compartments, though visibility issues were noted for taller drivers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, and the GLS boasted impressive legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS offered power-folding seats and a power tailgate for convenience. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the centre console grab handles and undersized sun visors.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with SYNC 3, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered a subscription-based 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system. The terrain management system included up to seven G.O.A.T. modes, with additional off-road assistance through trail control technology. Intelligent access with push-button start was available on most trims, along with a digital instrument panel on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and navigation. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, while the touchpad controller was less intuitive. The GLS included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. Optional features included a Burmester audio system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, including pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The Bronco Sport received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre Safe. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.