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Mercedes GLE vs Mercedes GLS comparison

Compare performance (585 HP vs 404 HP), boot space and price (78,900 £ vs 92,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLE or Mercedes GLS?

Mercedes GLE vs Mercedes GLS: Key differences

Mercedes GLE

4.6 (2 Reviews)
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  • slightly cheaper
  • clearly more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly lighter
  • clearly more trunk space
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Mercedes GLS

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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

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The Battle of Luxury SUVs: Mercedes GLE vs. Mercedes GLS

When it comes to luxury SUVs, Mercedes-Benz has long been a formidable player, offering an array of models that blend performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Two standout contenders in their lineup are the Mercedes GLE and the Mercedes GLS. But for discerning drivers, the choice between these two giants can be challenging. Let’s delve into their features, technical specifications, and innovations to see which might be the better fit for you.

GLS

Design and Dimensions

Starting with their designs, both the GLE and GLS exhibit the classic Mercedes-Benz elegance combined with a robust and dynamic SUV presence. The GLE, being the slightly smaller sibling, presents a sleek yet assertive stance with lengths ranging from 4,924 to 4,961 mm, and a width of 1,947 mm. Meanwhile, the GLS stands out as the more imposing figure, stretching from 5,208 to 5,233 mm in length and is marginally wider at 1,956 mm.

The GLE’s slightly more compact frame comes with a trunk capacity between 490 to 655 liters, whereas the GLS offers a smaller trunk space of 355 liters but compensates with a more spacious interior accommodating up to seven seats—a significant factor for larger families.

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Performance and Powertrains

The Mercedes GLE offers a variety of powertrains to choose from, striking a balance between performance and efficiency. Its engine options include Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, and Petrol MHEV configurations, delivering power between 289 and 634 HP. With the option of an electric range extending up to 114 km, the GLE is also a strong contender in the hybrid segment.

On the other hand, the GLS leans heavily towards power with its Diesel and Petrol MHEV engines reaching up to 634 HP. It doesn’t feature a hybrid option but compensates with a robust petrol performance evident in its acceleration, going from 0-100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds.

GLS

Technology and Features

Both models are equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s latest technology and comforts. The GLE and GLS feature advanced infotainment systems, adaptive cruise control, and the MBUX digital cockpit that keeps you connected at all times. Safety is paramount, with driver assistance systems like active lane-keeping assist and pre-safe plus among various others.

The GLE takes a step further with its hybrid models, integrating eco-friendly technology without compromising performance or luxury, making it a suitable choice for the environmentally-conscious driver.

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Efficiency and Environmental Impact

In terms of environmental impact, the GLE shines with lower CO2 emissions thanks to its hybrid options. With consumption as low as 0.5 – 12.5 L/100km in hybrid mode, it is more efficient compared to the GLS, whose consumption ranges from 7.9 to 13.7 L/100km with a higher CO2 output.

While the GLS does offer a powerful and thrilling drive, the GLE stands out for those looking to make less of an environmental footprint, with its range of hybrid powertrains that offer the best of both worlds.

GLS

Conclusion: Tailored to Your Lifestyle

Ultimately, the choice between the Mercedes GLE and GLS depends on your lifestyle needs and priorities. The GLE is ideal for those who prioritize versatility, efficiency, and cutting-edge hybrid technology. It offers a balanced mix of luxury, performance, and environmental consciousness.

The GLS, however, caters to those looking for uncompromised space and incredible power, ideal for larger families or those who appreciate the robust thrill of high-performance driving. Both models embody Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury and innovation, leaving the choice to your personal preference and lifestyle demands.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

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Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Mercedes GLE is slightly cheaper – starting at 78,900 £ , while the Mercedes GLS costs 92,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 13,750 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLE uses 3.2 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Mercedes GLS with 7.9 L/100km. The difference is about 4.7 L/100km.

GLS

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLE offers clearly more power – delivering 585 HP compared to 404 HP. That’s roughly 181 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLE is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.5 s, while the Mercedes GLS takes 5.6 s. That’s about 1.1 s quicker.

Both models offer the same torque – 750 Nm.

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Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Mercedes GLS offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLE is only slightly lighter – 2,390 kg compared to 2,580 kg. The difference is around 190 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLE offers clearly more boot space – 655 L compared to 355 L. That’s a difference of about 300 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLS carries only slightly more – 820 kg compared to 770 kg. That’s a difference of about 50 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLE holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £78,900
GLE

Mercedes GLE

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 309 - 585 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 3.2 - 10.6 L/100km
  • Electric Range 91 - 104 km
Mercedes GLE
Mercedes GLS

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Mercedes GLE

The Mercedes GLE blends luxurious comfort with a confident road presence, wrapping tech and refinement in an SUV shape that still knows how to behave on a twisty back road. Inside it's plush and quiet, with clever storage and driver aids that make long trips effortless — plus the badge gives it that easy-to-respect curb appeal.

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Mercedes GLS

The GLS — usually just called the GLS — is Mercedes' flagship SUV, wrapping limousine-like comfort and commanding road presence into a smart, family-ready package. It pampers occupants with a hushed cabin, premium materials and intuitive tech, while still managing to feel confident and a little indulgent on the daily commute.

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Mercedes GLE
Mercedes GLS

Costs and Consumption

Price
78,900 - 115,800 £
Price
92,700 - 104,600 £
Consumption L/100km
3.2 - 10.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
7.9 - 9.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
91 - 104 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
72 - 241 g/km
co2
206 - 226 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
2,390 - 2,815 kg
Curb weight
2,580 - 2,670 kg
Trunk capacity
485 - 655 L
Trunk capacity
355 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
2,010 - 2,018 mm
Width
1,956 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
495 - 770 kg
Payload
810 - 820 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
309 - 585 HP
Power HP
336 - 404 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.5 - 6.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.6 - 6.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
560 - 750 Nm
Torque
560 - 750 Nm
Number of Cylinders
6
Number of Cylinders
6
Power kW
227 - 430 kW
Power kW
247 - 297 kW
Engine capacity
2,989 - 2,999 cm3
Engine capacity
2,989 - 2,999 cm3

General

Model Year
2026
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.