The 2021 Volvo XC90 has received wide and well deserved praise for its Scandinavian design, classy interior, and considerable power. But is this enough to compete with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, an SUV with superb handling, a fabulous presentation, and serious power and technology?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS takes “high end” to another level. With a near six figure price tag, it is masterfully designed inside and out with a specialized grille, twenty inch alloy based wheels and three row seating. The cabin will charm those lucky enough to sit in it with the big 12.3 inch displays, glossy wooden trim, and black leather seats that feel so good when pressed against your back.
The Volvo XC90 uses a 6 seat configuration which is covered in comfortable wool, which will provide excellent warmth during the winter. The outer curves are long, smooth and sleek, and when sitting in the cabin passengers will be presented with a minimalist style that includes opened pore wood, light colored upholstery and supple leather seats.
Volvo is one of the safest automotive brands in the world, and the XC90 is no exception. It features all the cutting edge safety tech that drivers demand, including LED headlights, lane control that is active, emergency automated brakes, cruise control and blind area monitoring, which earned it a five star rating from the NHTSA and Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Luxuries within its cabin include nine inch displays, the choice of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, power tail gate, heated/cooled seats and an audio system from Bowers & Wilkins.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is equipped with all the safety features found in the Volvo, including pedestrian detection and the ability to automatically search for lanes which are open so that it can move into them. Luxuries within the cabin are extensive and include cooled/heated seats, a camera with surround view, wireless charging for smartphones and an audio system from Burmester.
There are few SUVs that can stand up to the power and performance of the Mercedes-Benz GLS. It is equipped with a turbo 6 engine that can generate 362 horsepower, that works in conjunction with a starter generator that is 48 volts. The Volvo XC90 is equipped with a turbo 4, 2 liter engine that can generate 316 horsepower with 295 pounds of torque that is wedded to an automatic eight speed transmission.
While the Volvo XC90 has received awards for its safety, its engine power is pathetic and some of the materials used in its cabin are flimsy, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS has the same safety features yet is far more powerful with bigger touchscreens, making it the winner.
If you are interested in buying the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, let Mercedes-Benz of Huntington deliver the best deal in town for you. We serve customers throughout the state and its surrounding regions. Drop by our showroom located in Huntington or call us to pre-book for a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS test drive appointment today!
