The Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup has vehicles to suit a wide range of needs. But with such an extensive lineup, it can be hard to keep track of which one is actually best suited to you. Since these are Mercedes-Benz models, all of them offer luxury interiors, advanced technology, and nimble handling, but there are differences nonetheless. To help clear up two of the bigger SUVs in the lineup, we’re taking an in-depth look at the GLS and the GLE.
GLE VS GLS – Dimensions
| Model |
Starting MSRP |
Seats |
Legroom (1st row / 2nd row / 3rd row) |
Cargo Space |
Turning Circle |
| GLE |
$61,850 |
5 (7 optional) |
40.3 inches / 40.9 inches / TBA |
33.3-74.9 cu ft |
39.4 feet |
| GLS |
$89,200 |
7 (6 optional) |
40.3 inches / 41.9 inches / 34.6 inches |
17.4-84.7 cu ft |
41 feet |
The most obvious difference between these two models is size. While the GLE has the option of a third row, the GLS comes with one as standard. You can also opt for individual 2nd row seats, which reduces the total number of seats, but gives those in the 2nd row an even more luxurious experience. With its smaller size, the GLE has an advantage in the form of a tighter turning circle. There is also clearly a price difference between the two, but there is a certain amount of overlap in this, for example, the GLE 580 and the GLS 450 are the exact same price.
GLE Drivetrains
| Model |
Engine |
Horsepower |
Torque |
0-60 Time |
| GLE 350 |
2.0L inline-4 turbo with mild hybrid drive |
255 |
295 lb-ft |
6.9 seconds |
| GLE 350 4MATIC® |
2.0L inline-4 turbo with mild hybrid drive |
255 |
295 lb-ft |
7.0 seconds |
| GLE 450 4MATIC® |
3.0L inline-6 turbo with mild hybrid drive |
375 |
369 lb-ft |
5.3 seconds |
| GLE 450e 4MATIC® |
2.0L inline-4 turbo with Plug-In Hybrid technology |
381 |
479 lb-ft |
5.8 seconds |
| GLE 580 4MATIC® |
4.0L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive |
510 |
538 lb-ft |
4.3 seconds |
GLS Drivetrains
| Model |
Engine |
Horsepower |
Torque |
0-60 Time |
| GLS 450 4MATIC® |
3.0L inline-6 turbo with mild hybrid drive |
375 |
369 lb-ft |
369 lb-ft |
| GLS 450 4MATIC® |
4.0L V8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive |
510 |
538 lb-ft |
4.7 seconds |
GLE VS GLS – Unique Variants
Mercedes-Benz is big on customization, with long lists of paint colors, upholstery options and interior trim options, and the drivetrains that we’ve already mentioned. Quite a lot of these options are the same for both vehicles, but there are a few major differences that we haven’t touched on yet. AMG® variants of both vehicles are available, and both have a 63-badged version equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 that produces 603 horsepower. But only the GLE also offers a 53-badged version with a 3.0-liter inline-six that produces 429 horsepower. Alternatively, it’s only the GLS that is available in a Maybach® variant, which turns the luxury and the style up significantly, and adds a much longer list of customization options.
*The Total Price is the Starting at price plus estimated taxes and fees once a ZIP code is provided but is subject to change and may vary based on location of the Dealer and customer, inventory levels, vehicle features and available discounts and rebates. Additional products added to your deal will affect the price. The Total Price displayed is an estimate
