Porsche Cayenne vs Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard SUV form with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe variant. The lineup ranged from the base Cayenne to the high-performance Cayenne Turbo GT, each with unique exterior features. The GTS trim, which was the focus of our review, boasted high gloss black trim, bronze exhaust tips, and a distinctive front fascia with larger air intakes to cool its V8 engine. The GTS also featured tinted headlights and red brake calipers visible through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from color choices like Carmine Red to various trim and seat belt options. While the pricing could escalate with customizations, the Cayenne promised a unique ownership experience. The cabin was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential functions and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle that freed up storage space.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of models, including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices spanning from $91,600 to $181,350. 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 exclusive features. The GLS 450's interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and detailing, although it exhibited some body creaks on chilly mornings. The standard upholstery was artificial leather, with options for higher-grade leather and various interior trims. The GLS 450's dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, and the MBUX infotainment system was user-friendly. Despite some occasional delays in responsiveness, the GLS 450's powertrain delivered a satisfying driving experience, and its tailored feel made it easier to manage in urban settings compared to larger SUVs.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, all capable of delivering impressive performance. The base model featured a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Cayenne S offered a V8 engine with 468 horsepower, while the Turbo GT boasted 650 horsepower, though it was only available as a coupe. The GTS trim, which we tested, delivered 493 horsepower from its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, with 486 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed transmission efficiently distributed power to all four wheels, allowing the GTS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, with a top speed of 171 mph. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty performance and comfort, with precise steering and an active suspension system that enhanced agility. The optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power, and the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter in Normal mode.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assistance, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLS 450 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 5.8 seconds. While more powerful versions of the GLS were available, the six-cylinder 450 offered acceptable fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The GLS featured a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension, providing a smooth ride and a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The GLS 450's powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, but Sport mode mitigated these issues. The GLS offered a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it a manageable choice for urban and suburban environments.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with the base model featuring standard eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. As buyers moved up the trim line, they could opt for upgrades like a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for personalization of interior materials and features. However, the Cayenne only accommodated five passengers, with no third-row seating option. The standard Cayenne provided 27.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to over 60 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The coupe version offered slightly less cargo space, and the plug-in hybrid models had reduced utility due to battery placement.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain's chairs as a no-cost option. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with standard features like a four-zone climate control system 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 generous legroom. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down. While the cargo space fell short of some competitors, the GLS provided ample room for luggage and a hands-free power liftgate for convenience.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a curved 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display running the Porsche Communication Management system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Spotify, Apple Music, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The screens were well-organized and responsive, with voice control options. A head-up display provided pertinent information, although it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne also offered night-vision assist and four high-speed USB-C charging ports, along with a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and online music access. A standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided excellent audio quality. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant that responded to voice commands. While the assistant occasionally stumbled, it generally performed well.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard safety features like parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. Porsche's advanced adaptive cruise control system, InnoDrive, was not available for testing. The Cayenne had not been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, including Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLS also featured Car-to-X Communication for future road hazard warnings. Parking was made easy with front and rear sensors and a surround-view camera system. While rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional, the GLS required active driver participation for highway driving assistance. The system performed well in most situations, but struggled with sharp curves. The GLS braked harder than necessary in some scenarios, but overall, it provided a smooth and refined driving experience.