2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while understated, promised longevity in its appeal. The GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all set against a Twilight Blue paint that defied the blacked-out trend. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment synonymous with Mercedes' reputation for interior excellence.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, with its facelift for 2024, presented a more robust and rounded profile, reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's design, while not the most striking in the Mercedes lineup, maintained brand identity with its wide stance and tapered glass. The GLE offered new personalization options, including four new paint colors and three new interior colors, enhancing its appeal. The Yacht Blue interior of the test car was particularly impressive, with upscale features like chunky air vents, mesh speaker grilles, and ambient lighting, creating a unique and luxurious cabin experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and swift acceleration. It reached 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by a mild-hybrid system that added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered versatility with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its impressive handling, while its brakes ensured smooth stops. Off-road enthusiasts appreciated the Off-Road menu in MBUX and the exclusive Off-Road Package available with the GLS 580.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft, while the GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp and 479 lb-ft. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 510 hp and 538 lb-ft. The AMG GLE 53 and GLE 63 S offered even more power, with the latter reaching 603 hp and 627 lb-ft. Despite its impressive powertrains, the GLE felt larger than it was, even with AMG chassis upgrades, making it less nimble in tight spaces.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling that occasionally hindered entry and exit. The front seats offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The GLS provided excellent visibility and a new steering wheel design, though its touch-sensing controls could be irritating. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. While the third-row seat was snug for adults, it offered decent leg support for children. Cargo space was practical, with up to 84.7 cubic feet available.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs were not published. The GLE offered competitive headroom and slightly more second-row space than rivals. Cargo space was ample, with 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with all seats folded. The center console provided reasonable storage, and the GLE's towing capacity matched competitors at 7,700 pounds.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system offered improved graphics and various themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with excellent voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE's MBUX system also featured dual 12.3-inch screens, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple access methods, including a touchpad and voice recognition, were available, though they could be confusing. The AMG GLE 63 S Coupe offered additional drive modes and settings, accessible via steering wheel dials. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function enhanced the GLE's capabilities.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their subtle and smooth operation, handling various driving conditions with ease. The lane-centering assist only faltered once during testing.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered numerous driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE received a 2025 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech had mixed ratings.