If you’re in the market for a luxury SUV, you might find yourself torn between the Lexus LX 570 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS 550. Both are exceptional vehicles that offer a range of features and capabilities. However, they are also quite different from one another. In this article, we’ll compare the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 across several key categories, including design, performance, safety, technology, and price.
Design and Appearance
When it comes to design, the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 have distinct looks. The LX 570 has a bold, boxy exterior that exudes a sense of strength and durability. The grille is imposing, and the body is marked by sharp lines and angles. Inside, the LX 570 is roomy and comfortable, with high-quality materials and a range of luxury features.
In contrast, the GLS 550 has a more curvaceous exterior that emphasizes elegance and sophistication. The grille is less aggressive, and the body is more aerodynamic. Inside, the GLS 550 is plush and refined, with premium materials and advanced features such as a digital instrument cluster and a Burmester surround sound system.
Despite their differences, both vehicles offer plenty of features and add-ons to enhance their appearance and functionality. For example, the Lexus LX 570 offers a Sport Package that includes a unique front fascia, a sport grille, and exclusive 21-inch wheels. The GLS 550, on the other hand, offers an Appearance Package that includes 22-inch wheels, running boards, and illuminated door sills.
Performance and Engine
When it comes to performance, the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 are both powerful vehicles. The LX 570 is equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The GLS 550, on the other hand, has a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It has a nine-speed automatic transmission and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
Despite its greater power, the GLS 550 is less fuel-efficient than the LX 570. The GLS 550 gets an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, while the LX 570 gets an estimated 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Both vehicles come equipped with all-wheel drive, which provides excellent traction and stability on all types of roads and driving conditions.
Performance and Engine
The engine specifications of the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 are quite different. The LX 570 has a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 383 horsepower and 403 lb-ft of torque. It has a towing capacity of up to 7,000 pounds and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The GLS 550, on the other hand, has a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It has a towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
While the GLS 550 has a more powerful engine, the LX 570 has a more robust and reliable one. Additionally, the GLS 550 has a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the LX 570 has a six-speed automatic transmission. This difference in transmission could affect the vehicle’s overall performance and fuel efficiency.
Safety and Security
Both the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 have a range of safety features that provide drivers and passengers with peace of mind. The LX 570 comes standard with features such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. It also has 10 airbags, including driver and front passenger knee airbags, and a backup camera with dynamic gridlines.
The GLS 550, on the other hand, comes standard with features such as active brake assist, attention assist, and crosswind assist. It also has nine airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, and a rearview camera. Additionally, the GLS 550 has a 360-degree camera system that provides a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings, making it easier to navigate tight spaces and parking spots.
In terms of crash test ratings, both vehicles have fared well. The LX 570 received an overall safety rating of four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also received the highest rating of “Good” in six of the seven Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests. The GLS 550 received an overall safety rating of five out of five stars from the NHTSA and received the highest rating of “Good” in all IIHS crash tests.
Technology and Infotainment
When it comes to technology and infotainment, both the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 offer advanced features that make driving more comfortable and convenient. The LX 570 comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. It also has a range of safety features, such as a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
The GLS 550, on the other hand, comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a 13-speaker Burmester surround sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. It also offers a range of convenience features, such as wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. In terms of safety, the GLS 550 has similar features to the LX 570, including a pre-collision system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Overall, both vehicles offer comprehensive infotainment and technology features that cater to different preferences.
Price and Value
When it comes to price and value, the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 have significant differences. The LX 570 has a starting price of around $87,000, while the GLS 550 has a starting price of around $98,000. The LX 570 also has a lower cost of ownership, with a five-year cost of ownership of around $89,000, compared to the GLS 550’s five-year cost of ownership of around $107,000.
In terms of resale value, the LX 570 has a higher resale value than the GLS 550. According to Kelley Blue Book, the LX 570 has an average resale value of 55% after five years, while the GLS 550 has an average resale value of 46%. This means that the LX 570 is likely to retain its value better over time, making it a better long-term investment.
Ultimately, the decision between the Lexus LX 570 and the GLS 550 comes down to personal preferences and priorities. The LX 570 offers a lower price point, better fuel efficiency, and higher resale value, while the GLS 550 offers more power, more advanced technology, and a more refined design. Regardless of which vehicle you choose, you can rest assured that you’ll be driving a top-of-the-line luxury SUV that offers exceptional performance, comfort, and features.
