Mercedes-Benz GLS vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a luxurious and sophisticated appearance with its various trims, including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600. Prices ranged from $91,600 to $181,350, with a reasonable destination charge of $1,350. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, which added 21-inch AMG wheels, the AMG Line Exterior Package, the Night Package, and the Exclusive Package. These enhancements, along with exclusive paint colors and premium leather upholstery, elevated the vehicle's aesthetic appeal. Despite some body creaks on chilly mornings, the interior boasted high-quality materials and a user-friendly control layout, including dual 12.3-inch displays that integrated seamlessly with the dashboard.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look with slight styling changes, resembling a conventional gas-powered car more than an EV. The Bolt EV, now offered in a single body style, prioritized utility and interior space over a sporty stance. The interior underwent a significant makeover, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. Despite the dominance of hard plastic surfaces, the cabin provided adequate comfort with padded elbow touchpoints. The RS trim added Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching, enhancing the interior's appeal. The Bolt's design focused on practicality, offering ample storage and a flat floor for rear passengers, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.8 seconds. The GLS 450 offered a tailored driving experience with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The Airmatic adaptive suspension significantly improved ride and handling, providing a smooth driving character. Despite occasional delays in responsiveness, the turbo-six engine sounded sensational under hard acceleration, making the GLS a refined and manageable choice for urban and suburban driving.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and environmental impact. Its motor, sourced from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with immediate pedal response. One-pedal driving was available, offering medium or high levels of brake regeneration. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. With an EPA-estimated range of 262 miles and improved charging speed, the Bolt offered practicality and efficiency for everyday driving.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered seven-passenger seating as standard, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain’s chairs as a no-cost option. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and optional massaging seats. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated and heated second-row captain’s chairs, offering generous legroom and outstanding leg support. However, storage locations were limited, with a small center armrest bin and shallow door pockets. The cargo space behind the third-row seat measured 17.4 cubic feet, expanding to a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet with the second-row folded down.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. The rear seats provided plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor reducing the penalty for center-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, enhancing versatility. While there was no frunk, the Bolt offered ample storage for personal items, including a large bin with movable dividers, a deep center armrest bin, and additional pockets in the dashboard.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a retro yet luxurious approach to technology. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a standard Burmester surround-sound system. Options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. MBUX was user-friendly, with a digital assistant capable of executing various commands, although it occasionally struggled with specific requests.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. While Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, the system offered logical menus, sharp graphics, and quick responses. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system and a wireless charging pad. The Bolt's navigation system assisted in finding charging stations and preconditioning the battery for optimal charging rates. Additionally, the Bolt offered vehicle-to-load charging, serving as a backup power source for a home.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. It featured a surround-view camera system and parking sensors, but rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional. The GLS required active driver participation, with a hands-on system that occasionally struggled with curves. Despite some braking quirks, the GLS provided a smooth and refined driving experience.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it was expected to achieve high scores. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system and other safety enhancements. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an additional cost, offering advanced highway driving assistance.