GLE vs GLS Mercedes: The Ultimate Luxury SUV Comparison

Mercedes-Benz stands at the forefront of automotive excellence in luxury SUVs. Two models that consistently steal the spotlight are the Mercedes-Benz GLE and the Mercedes-Benz GLS.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE debuted in 2015, replacing the M-Class, with modern tech and AMG variants. The GLS, introduced in 2006 and rebranded in 2015, received a 2020 redesign with advanced features.

Both offer exceptional performance, luxury, and innovation, but there are key differences in their design, performance, and overall appeal. In this detailed comparison, we will explore each model in-depth, highlight its features, and guide you in choosing the perfect SUV for your needs.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Class: Full Description & Specs

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Class is an elegant mid-size luxury SUV that perfectly balances sporty agility and sophisticated luxury.

The GLE Class is ideal for those who want versatility and style in one package, offering impressive tech, advanced safety features, and a refined interior. Whether looking for a sleek ride through city streets or a robust vehicle for adventurous getaways, the GLE SUV delivers on all fronts.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Class Specs

• Engine Options:
  • GLE 350 4MATIC (2.0L Turbo Inline-4):
    • Horsepower: 255 hp
    • Torque: 273 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 19-20 mpg city / 27-28 mpg highway
  • GLE 450 4MATIC (3.0L Inline-6 with EQ Boost):
    • Horsepower: 362 hp
    • Torque: 369 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
    • Mild Hybrid Drive for better performance and fuel efficiency
  • AMG GLE 63 (4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo):
    • Horsepower: 603 hp
    • Torque: 627 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
    • 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds
• Transmission: 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission
• Drive Type: 4MATIC all-wheel drive (standard across most trims)
• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers (with optional third-row seating in the GLE 350)
• Cargo Capacity: 33.3 cubic feet with seats up, 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded
• Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
• Suspension: Air suspension with adaptive damping (optional on higher trims)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 194.3 inches
  • Width: 76.7 inches
  • Height: 70.7 inches
  • Wheelbase: 117.3 inches
• Technology & Features:
  • MBUX Infotainment System with 12.3-inch touchscreen and voice control
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Burmester® Surround Sound System
  • Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist
  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Wireless Charging
  • Augmented Reality Navigation
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Amazon Alexa Integration
  • Dolby Atmos® audio streaming for an immersive sound experience

Pros:

• Sportier and more agile compared to the GLS
• Better fuel economy with the hybrid GLE 450e and efficient engines
• Advanced technology with MBUX, Apple CarPlay, and Active Speed Limit Assist
• Smaller size, making it ideal for city driving

Cons:

• Less passenger capacity: Can accommodate up to 5 passengers (3rd-row seating only available in certain trims)
• Smaller cargo space compared to the GLS
• Less towing capacity than the GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS Class: Full Description & Specs

The Mercedes-Benz GLS Class is a full-size luxury SUV designed for those who crave more space, more luxury, and more power. As the flagship SUV from Mercedes-Benz, the GLS Class delivers an extraordinary level of comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology.

Whether you’re chauffeuring a large family or need ample cargo space for an adventure, the GLS combines elegance with practicality, making it a standout in the luxury SUV market.

Mercedes-Benz GLS Class Specs

• Engine Options:
  • GLS 450 4MATIC (3.0L Inline-6 with EQ Boost):
    • Horsepower: 362 hp
    • Torque: 369 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • GLS 580 4MATIC (4.0L Twin-Turbo V8):
    • Horsepower: 483 hp
    • Torque: 516 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
  • AMG GLS 63 (4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo):
    • Horsepower: 603 hp
    • Torque: 627 lb-ft
    • Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
    • 0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds
• Transmission: 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission
• Drive Type: 4MATIC all-wheel drive (standard)
• Seating Capacity: 7 passengers (optional 6-passenger configuration)
• Cargo Capacity: 17.4 cubic feet with seats up, 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded
• Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
• Suspension: Air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 205.2 inches
  • Width: 77.9 inches
  • Height: 72.8 inches
  • Wheelbase: 123.4 inches

Technology & Features:

• MBUX Infotainment System with dual 12.3-inch displays
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System
• Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Parking Assist
• Surround View Camera System
• Remote Start via Mercedes me connect
• Night View Assist Plus (available in higher trims)
• Wireless Charging
• Augmented Reality Navigation

Pros:

• Three rows of seating for up to 7 passengers, making it ideal for larger families
• More powerful engine options, including the AMG GLS 63
• More luxury features like Night View Assist Plus and Burmester® 3D Sound
• Larger cargo space up to 84.7 cubic feet

Cons:

• Higher price compared to the GLE
• Less fuel-efficient, especially with V8 engine options
• Larger size, making it less maneuverable in tight spaces

GLE vs GLS Mercedes: Key Comparisons

Performance & Engine Options

• GLE Class: The GLE offers a variety of engine choices, including the GLE 350 with a turbocharged inline-4, the GLE 450 with a 3.0L inline-6 and EQ Boost, and the performance-focused AMG GLE 63 with a V8. The GLE 450 offers excellent fuel economy, especially in hybrid models like the GLE 450e, which integrates rear electric power.
• GLS Class: The GLS is more powerful, featuring the GLS 450 with a 3.0L inline-6, the GLS 580 with a twin-turbo V8, and the performance AMG GLS 63. The GLS 580 offers higher horsepower and torque compared to the GLE, making it ideal for those seeking a more robust driving experience.

Size & Interior Space

• The GLE has a more compact footprint, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. It can accommodate up to five passengers, with an optional third-row in the GLE 350. However, the GLS shines with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. It’s a more spacious vehicle overall, with 84.7 cubic feet of cargo space when the seats are folded down, making it perfect for larger families or those who require extensive cargo room.

Technology & Features

• Both the GLE and GLS come equipped with the MBUX Infotainment System, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The GLS offers more advanced features like Night View Assist Plus, a Burmester® 3D Surround Sound System, and Active Parking Assist, which provides added luxury for tech-savvy buyers.
• Both vehicles come with standard active safety features like Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Active Brake Assist.

Fuel Economy

• The GLE provides better fuel efficiency across the board, with the GLE 350 offering 19-20 mpg city and 27-28 mpg highway. The GLE 450 achieves 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Meanwhile, the GLS has a slightly lower fuel economy, with the GLS 450 offering 19 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, and the AMG GLS 63 offering 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.

Price & Value

• The Mercedes-Benz GLE starts at ₹97.85 lakh for the GLE 350 4MATIC, with higher trims and AMG models reaching up to ₹1.15 crore.
• The Mercedes-Benz GLS begins at around ₹1.32 crore for the GLS 450 4MATIC and can go up to ₹1.80 crore for the AMG GLS 63.

Which One Is The Best Money-Worthy Option?

• GLE- Best Value for Smaller Budgets
• GLS- Best Value for Larger Budgets

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the better option for those who want a luxury SUV with an affordable price tag. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, sporty performance, and high-tech features at a reasonable cost, especially considering the GLE 350 and GLE 450 variants.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is better if you prioritize space, power, and luxury features. While it comes at a significantly higher price, the additional space, luxury features like Burmester® 3D Sound, and more powerful engine options, especially with the AMG GLS 63, justify the higher cost for those who need a full-size SUV.

Customer Preferences: GLE vs GLS

GLE:

• GLE combines luxury, performance, and practicality.
• Ideal for those avoiding third-row seating.
• Popular for sporty driving dynamics.
• Preferred by younger, urban professionals.
• Affordable compared to the GLS.
• Manages well in city environments.

GLS:

• Large families favor GLS.
• Ideal for three-row seating.
• Popular for its luxury features.
• AMG GLS 63 attracts performance enthusiasts.
• Appeals to affluent buyers seeking prestige.
• Strong demand in the Middle East.
• Preferred for towing heavy loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.What Is The Main Difference Between The Mercedes-Benz GLE And GLS?

The primary difference lies in size, passenger capacity, and luxury features. The GLE is a mid-size SUV, offering seating for up to 5 passengers, while the GLS is a full-size luxury SUV with three rows of seating for up to 7 passengers.

The GLS also provides more cargo space and powerful engine options, while the GLE is more agile and offers better fuel economy.

2.Which Is More Fuel-Efficient: The GLE Or The GLS?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE tends to be more fuel-efficient, particularly with its GLE 450e hybrid model.

The GLE offers around 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway for the GLE 450, while the GLS achieves 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway for the GLS 450. However, the AMG GLS 63 with a V8 engine is less fuel-efficient.

3.Which SUV Is Better For Families, GLE Or GLS?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is the better choice for larger families or those needing more interior space. It provides three rows of seating for up to 7 passengers and has significantly more cargo space. The GLE, on the other hand, seats up to 5 passengers and has less cargo capacity.

4.Which Model Has Better Performance, GLE Or GLS?

Both the GLE and GLS offer strong performance, but the GLS provides more powerful engine options. The AMG GLS 63 has a V8 Bi-Turbo engine that produces 603 hp.

The GLE 450, while still powerful with its EQ Boost hybrid engine, offers a more balanced combination of performance and fuel efficiency.

5.Which Model Offers Better Value For Money?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE offers better value for money for those who want a luxurious SUV with sporty handling and excellent fuel efficiency without needing the massive space and power of the GLS. If you need more space and a more powerful engine, the GLS may justify its higher price.

6.Can I Find Pre-Owned Options For The GLE And GLS?

Yes, both the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS have a strong market for pre-owned vehicles. Many dealerships offer pre-owned specials on both models, and Mercedes-Benz-certified pre-owned vehicles come with warranties and have passed rigorous inspections.

7.Is There A Hybrid Or Electric Option For These Suvs?

Yes, the GLE 450e is a mild hybrid drive model, offering a blend of gasoline engine and electric power for better fuel economy. The GLS does not have an all-electric variant, but Mercedes-Benz has made strides towards electric vehicles with options like the EQB and EQC.

8.Does The GLE Or GLS Have A Better Sound System?

Both the GLE and GLS can be equipped with the Burmester® Surround Sound System, but the GLS offers the Burmester® 3D Sound System for an enhanced immersive audio experience. If you’re an audiophile, the GLS provides superior sound quality.