The 2017 Acura MDX ranks 10 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and reasonably priced option for drivers looking for a well-equipped luxury midsize SUV.The 2017 Acura MDX ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category.
Pros Balanced ride and handling Excellent fuel economy More standard driver assistance features than rivals
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Less cargo space than 3-row rivals
The 2017 Acura MDX is one of the best-driving, most technologically advanced three-row luxury crossovers, and a new Sport Hybrid model and active suspension should only add to that reputation. Among luxury crossovers, the Acura MDX is a standout in nearly every possible way—and it stands as quite a counterpoint to the brand’s sedans, which can’t seem to get proper traction in the market.While this model is already one of the best-driving models in its class, the 2017 Acura MDX has been given ride and handling improvements, more standard active-safety features, and a new Sport Hybrid variant that promises both better performance and higher fuel economy numbers.We give it a 7.5 out of 10.
Pros New Sport Hybrid Refined and quiet Great handling Space for six
Cons Rough-shifting transmission Too much bright trim Complex infotainment interface Lacks steering feedback
The 2017 Acura MDX receives a comprehensive face-lift, including a new front end with fresh headlight and grille designs. A Sport Hybrid model debuts with more power and better fuel economy than the regular MDX. New standard features for 2017 include capless fueling, an electronic parking brake, auto high beams, additional USB ports and the AcuraWatch suite of active safety aids (previously optional on some MDX versions). Newly available features include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, automatic locking when you walk away from the vehicle, power-folding mirrors, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, upgraded wood trim and second-row captain's chairs.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Optional SH-AWD system enhances handling and all-season surefootedness Smooth and confident acceleration from the V6 engine Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Touchscreen isn't user-friendly and graphics are subpar Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than some rivals Clunky auto stop-start function Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does
HIGHS: Standard active-safety tech, newly refined schnoz, excellent handling.
LOWS No longer the best, expensive option packages, frustrating infotainment system.
Still a compelling alternative to European luxury SUVs.
The GLS-Class officially makes its debut for 2017, though it's really a slightly revised version of the outgoing GL-Class. Highlights include modified exterior styling, a newly standard nine-speed automatic transmission (except on the AMG GLS 63) and a touchpad-operated infotainment system with a larger screen and available Apple CarPlay. Also, all engines except the GLS450's turbocharged V6 get a bit more horsepower this year.
Pros Third row is large enough for adults Spirited acceleration with any of the three gasoline engines Impressive fuel economy with the diesel engine Quiet cabin with high-end trimmings and features.
Cons Diesel-powered model feels relatively slow when passing and merging Big price jump from the six-cylinder models to the V8-powered versions.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets the first-class upgrade along with its name change—and a Maybach edition is waiting in the wings. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class marks a significant, mid-cycle upgrade for what was previously knew as the GL-Class. As part of a nomenclature change sweeping the entire brand, each of the German luxury maker's sport-utility vehicles has received new badging and a full or partial makeover to bring the lineup into more obvious parallels with its sedans—so this large, three-row SUV becomes the GLS, to align it with the largest S-Class sedan. Hence the S in its new name.
Pros Spacious, flexible interior Rugged-lux, with some added panache Great set of safety, infotainment features
Cons Not an entirely new vehicle Some switchgear looks dated Cumbersome COMAND interface
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ranks 1 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS hits most of the right notes for a large SUV. It boasts a supple ride, three powerful engine choices, three rows of roomy seats, and the same level of luxury that has come to be synonymous with the brand. However, the GLS has fewer standard features than many rivals do, and its available V8 engines are less fuel-efficient than those offered by many competitors.
Pros Powerful engine lineup Smooth ride Three rows of spacious seats
Cons Fewer features than some rivals V8 engines get subpar fuel economy
