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Mercedes GLS vs Volvo XC90 comparison

Compare performance (634 HP vs 406 HP), boot space and price (191,300 £ vs 74,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLS or Volvo XC90?

Mercedes GLS vs Volvo XC90: Key differences

Mercedes GLS

  • markedly more power
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
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Volvo XC90

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly cheaper
  • substantially more efficient
  • markedly lighter
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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

GLS

Luxury SUV Showdown: Mercedes GLS vs. Volvo XC90

The luxury SUV segment is a fiercely competitive arena, with manufacturers vying to offer the best blend of style, performance, and technology. In this comparison, we delve into the specifications, features, and innovations of two titans: the Mercedes GLS and the Volvo XC90. Both SUVs promise comfort and capability but differentiate themselves with unique technical aspects and design philosophies.

XC90

Power and Performance

Starting with the powertrains, the Mercedes GLS offers a range of engine options, including several mild hybrid variants. The power output varies from 333 HP to a staggering 634 HP, thanks to its available 8-cylinder engines. This range of power allows for impressive acceleration, with the top variant achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The GLS's all-wheel-drive system ensures that this power is delivered seamlessly across various driving conditions.

The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, stands out with its focus on efficiency. It features a 4-cylinder engine lineup that produces up to 455 HP in its plug-in hybrid configuration. Although the acceleration is slightly less thrilling at 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds for the top variant, the XC90 prides itself on low consumption figures, with a remarkable 1.2 L/100 km while in hybrid mode, thanks to its electric range of 71 km provided by a 14.7 kWh battery.

GLS

Dimensions and Interior Space

When it comes to size, the Mercedes GLS outshines the XC90. Measuring approximately 5209 mm in length, the GLS provides a spacious interior designed for seven occupants. The trunk capacity also impresses, offering up to 355 liters of cargo space.

The Volvo XC90, shorter at 4953 mm, manages to accommodate seven passengers but has less trunk space, peaking at 302 liters. Nonetheless, it employs a clever interior design that maximizes space utilization and provides a premium feel, indicative of Volvo's Scandinavian design ethos.

XC90

Innovation and Technology

Both vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, but they take different approaches. The Mercedes GLS features an advanced MBUX infotainment system, complete with voice-activated controls and a multi-screen layout that integrates navigation, media, and vehicle settings intuitively. Safety features include Active Stop-and-Go Assist and the innovative Pre-Safe system that prepares for an impending collision.

Volvo, renowned for its commitment to safety, outfits the XC90 with an array of safety technologies such as City Safety and Pilot Assist, which offer semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sensus infotainment system is robust but leans more towards minimalism and usability, providing a clean interface with a smartphone-like experience.

GLS

Environmental Considerations

In the current automotive landscape, environmental considerations are pivotal. The GLS carries a CO2 emission rating that reaches up to 310 g/km in its more powerful variants. Conversely, the XC90 makes a strong case for sustainability, especially with its plug-in hybrid option, which emits only 30 g/km in hybrid mode. This difference highlights Volvo’s initiative towards greener motoring.

XC90

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, both the Mercedes GLS and Volvo XC90 present compelling arguments for potential buyers in the luxury SUV market. The GLS leans towards sheer power and technological sophistication, while the XC90 champions fuel efficiency and safety innovation. The choice ultimately hinges on personal preferences—whether one prioritizes exhilarating performance and luxury amenities or eco-friendliness and safety features. Each model embodies the ethos of its brand, making this comparison not just about technical numbers, but about lifestyle and values.

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Volvo XC90
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

GLS

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Volvo XC90 is significantly cheaper – starting at 74,300 £ , while the Mercedes GLS costs 191,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 116,955 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Volvo XC90 uses 3.4 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the Mercedes GLS with 13.3 L/100km. The difference is about 9.9 L/100km.

XC90

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 GLS offers markedly more power – delivering 634 HP compared to 406 HP. That’s roughly 228 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLS is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.2 s, while the Volvo XC90 takes 5.4 s. That’s about 1.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLS delivers clearly more torque with 850 Nm compared to 669 Nm. That’s about 181 Nm more.

GLS

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 7 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volvo XC90 is markedly lighter – 2,080 kg compared to 2,700 kg. The difference is around 620 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Volvo XC90 carries marginally more – 710 kg compared to 695 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Volvo XC90 stands well ahead of its rival 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 £74,300
XC90

Volvo XC90

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 250 - 406 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 3.4 - 8.3 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 69 km
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Mercedes GLS
Volvo XC90

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

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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Reviews Mercedes GLS

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a serene Scandinavian SUV that mixes minimalist luxury with a composed, confidence-inspiring presence — ideal for buyers who want family practicality without sacrificing style. Inside it serves up a calm, well-crafted cabin and user-friendly tech that keeps long journeys pleasant and tantrums to a minimum, making the XC90 a smart, stylish pick for sensible drivers.

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Reviews Volvo XC90

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
Borstel
11 Nov 2025, 12:59:12

I drive both cars. The XC90’s boot is — contrary to the figures posted here — noticeably larger than the GLC’s when carrying five people. Overall the XC90 is clearly the more comfortable and, above all, the more stable — and therefore the safer — car.

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Mercedes GLS
Volvo XC90

Costs and Consumption
Price
191,300 £
Price
74,300 - 84,600 £
Consumption L/100km
13.3 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
3.4 - 8.3 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
69 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
302 g/km
co2
71 - 188 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
7
Seats
7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
2,700 kg
Curb weight
2,080 - 2,350 kg
Trunk capacity
355 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,956 mm
Width
1,923 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
695 kg
Payload
600 - 710 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
634 HP
Power HP
250 - 406 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 7.7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
850 Nm
Torque
360 - 669 Nm
Number of Cylinders
8
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
466 kW
Power kW
184 - 299 kW
Engine capacity
3,982 cm3
Engine capacity
1,969 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Volvo
Is the Mercedes GLS offered with different drivetrains?

The Mercedes GLS is available as All-Wheel Drive.

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.