2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while understated, promised longevity in its appeal. The GLS 450 test vehicle was adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all of which complemented its lustrous paint. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, enhanced by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment synonymous with Mercedes-Benz.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 and facelifted for 2024, presented a more distinctive silhouette. It shared some visual heft with its Mercedes siblings but maintained a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's styling, particularly in the Coupe models, was marked by a fastback-style roofline that contrasted with its bulky lower body. Inside, the GLE offered unique interior colour options, such as the unavailable-in-Canada Yacht Blue, and featured upscale elements like chunky air vents, mesh speaker grilles, and 64-colour ambient lighting, creating a vibrant and luxurious cabin atmosphere.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This setup provided smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS 450 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, with driving modes including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. It boasted a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms and a fuel economy rating of 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, offering 80 kilometres of electric range. The AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S models delivered 429 and 603 horsepower, respectively, with the latter achieving 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Despite its impressive power, the GLE's handling felt larger than its midsize classification, even with AMG enhancements.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with optional AMG Line package styling. The front seats were comfortable, featuring leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, while the third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 355 litres behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,400 litres with all seats folded.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row space specs were not published. The GLE provided competitive headroom and legroom, with slightly more second-row space than most rivals. Cargo capacity was 894 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres with all seats folded. The GLE's centre console offered reasonable storage space, and its towing capacity matched the GLS at 3,500 kilograms.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and centre console could cause accidental changes. Despite this, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE also utilized MBUX with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface could be accessed via multiple methods, including voice recognition, which was particularly effective. The AMG GLE 63 S Coupe included additional drive modes and settings, accessible through steering wheel dials with small screens, though this could be distracting.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness and subtle operation, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist performing smoothly.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech had mixed ratings.