Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of ten versions, with prices spanning from $63,600 to $134,500, including a $1,350 destination charge. Assembled in Alabama, the GLE 350 was the most affordable model, featuring rear-wheel drive and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. At the higher end, the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe came with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive and a hand-built twin-turbo V8 engine. Our focus was on the GLE 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. The GLE 450e, a plug-in hybrid, offered an estimated 49 miles of electric-only range. The GLE 450 came with standard all-wheel drive, except for the base GLE 350, and featured the Exclusive Package and the new-for-2026 Manufaktur Edition Package, priced at $79,100, including the destination charge.

The Manufaktur Edition added exclusive paint, 21-inch wheels, a Night Package with blacked-out trim, and other luxury features. However, the Moonlight White Magno paint highlighted the GLE's less appealing design. While the exterior might have been underwhelming, the interior was a different story. The GLE 450's cabin was elegantly detailed, with quality materials, matte-finish wood, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The climate controls were wisely separated from the center touchscreen, and the steering wheel featured touch-sensing controls. Despite some challenges with the touch slider for stereo volume, the overall interior experience was luxurious and user-friendly.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices ranging from $91,600 to $181,350, including a $1,350 destination charge. Our test vehicle, the GLS 450, featured the new-for-2026 Manufaktur Edition Package, which added 21-inch AMG wheels, the AMG Line Exterior Package, and other luxury upgrades. The GLS 450's MSRP was $96,400, including the destination charge. The Manufaktur Edition offered exclusive paint colors, but the Silicon Grey on our test vehicle didn't stand out. The AMG and Night styling details, however, enhanced the GLS's sporty appearance.

Inside, the GLS shared similarities with the smaller GLE-Class but had its unique touches. The interior boasted high-quality materials and detailing, though we noticed body creaks on chilly mornings. The GLS 450 came with standard artificial leather upholstery, with options for different grades of leather and interior trims. The standard ambient lighting and panoramic sunroof added to the luxurious ambiance. The GLS's control layout, with seat adjusters on the doors and a transmission gear-selector stalk, required some acclimation. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, offering a cohesive and user-friendly experience.

The 2026 GLE 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered through a nine-speed automatic transmission, with driving modes including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLE 450 was equipped for off-roading and towing, with a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. It also featured Downhill Speed Regulation and a "transparent hood" camera view for off-road navigation. However, the standard suspension allowed too much body motion, affecting the driving experience in various situations.

The GLS 450 shared the same turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, generating 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive, the GLS 450 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLS offered more powerful versions, but the six-cylinder 450 provided acceptable fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The GLS featured a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension, enhancing its ride and handling qualities compared to the GLE. The GLS's powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, but the turbo-six delivered satisfying performance under hard acceleration.

The GLE's interior was quiet at freeway speeds, with firm yet comfortable front seats featuring "energizing seat kinetics" and heated functionality. The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats and Nappa leather upholstery. The back seat was roomy, though the seating position was low relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was an expensive option, adding two extra chairs with USB-C charging ports. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded down. Thoughtful storage solutions were present throughout the cabin.

The GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain’s chairs as a no-cost option. The GLS was exceptionally comfortable, with standard four-zone climate control and heated and ventilated front seats. Comfort upgrades included massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, and an executive-style rear seat package. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain’s chairs with a pass-through to the third-row seat. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seat, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second-row folded down. Storage locations were limited, but the glove compartment was spacious.

The 2026 GLE featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered lush graphics, a biometric authentication system, and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system, Dolby Atmos technology, and an augmented-reality video function for navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The GLS also featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality enhancement, and a Burmester surround-sound system. Additional options included gesture control capability, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant that performed well, except for a minor issue with hospital navigation.

The GLE's standard safety tech included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and more. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other features. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist was noteworthy, but the route-based speed-adjustment feature was a source of frustration. The GLE earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS for 2025, but its front-crash prevention tech received low ratings.

The GLS featured nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, including Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. Parking aids were comprehensive, but rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional. The GLS required active driver participation, and its curve-speed reduction technology was overly cautious. The GLS braked harder than necessary on freeway exits, but it behaved like a refined partner on longer drives.