2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs. 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

If you're looking for a luxury SUV, Mercedes-Benz in Temecula, California, is here to help. Mercedes-Benz has long delivered ultra-premium quality in its vehicles, so the only challenge you'll encounter is which model to choose. The GLE and GLS models have the sophisticated style, refined comfort, performance and cutting-edge tech you crave. To help you make an informed decision on which is right for you, we asked our SUV experts to compare these two popular SUVs.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Mercedes produces the GLE in four trims, including a plug-in hybrid model, and the AMG GLE in two trims. The GLS has two trim levels plus an AMG model. The AMG vehicles have high-performance engines and suspensions inspired by the Mercedes-Benz racing division. We've included their pricing in the table below.

The GLS SUV is found between the GLE and G-Class SUVs. As you can see, the pricing jumps considerably. Let's find out why.

Engine Options

The GLE 350 has a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission allows for smooth shifting and power on demand, enabling the GLE to go from zero to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds.

The GLE 450 4MATIC uses a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine with mild hybrid technology. Mercedes-Benz paired this engine with its 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 clocks a zero to 60 mph time of 5.3 seconds.

Under the hood of the GLE 450e, you'll find a plug-in hybrid variant of the 2.0-liter inline turbo-four engine and nine-speed automatic. This powertrain produces 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque and can go from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz GLE 580 models feature a 4.0-liter V-8 engine with twin turbochargers and a mild hybrid system. This engine pumps out 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque that can race from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

The AMG GLE 53 uses an enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 429 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque and goes from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The AMG GLE 63 S models have an enhanced V-8 bi-turbo engine with 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This SUV sprints from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz uses the same inline turbo-six from the GLE line in its GLS 450 and achieves identical power numbers. However, it recorded a zero to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, a half-second slower than the GLS version. In the GLS 580, you'll get the same bi-turbo V-8 engine with similar results. You'll achieve the same horsepower and torque but go from zero to 60 mph half a second slower. 

If you're looking for power that translates to straight-line speed, the AMG GLS 63 uses a handcrafted performance-enhanced bi-turbo V-8. This powertrain delivers an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque and rockets from zero to 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

If you're trading in your used GLE, you'll appreciate the versatile comfort found in the new GLE's cabin. Heated front seats, an optional third row, premium leather upholstery in new color palettes, ambient lighting, and an available four-zone climate control system cradle you in sophisticated comfort. 

The GLE has an optional third row, but the GLS comes standard with three rows to seat up to seven people in luxurious comfort. Mercedes-Benz offers a no-charge second-row upgrade to captain's chairs with a walk-through to the third row. This lowers your seating to six but enhances second-row passenger comfort.

The GLS adds a giant sunroof, ventilated front seats, and a power second row as standard equipment. For additional comfort, you can opt for massaging seats and five-zone climate control. 

With a giant sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and a power second row, the GLS offers all passengers opulent treatment. Available luxuries range from four massage seats to five-zone climate control.

The AMG models feature AMG Line interior flourishes, such as sport seats, distinctive nappa leather upholstery, and a flat-bottom steering wheel for the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury.

Technology

Both the GLE and GLS have a widescreen dash, twin 12.3-inch touch screens, and reconfigurable displays. A seamless design enhances your connection, with intuitive touch controls placed in easy reach on the steering wheel and multimedia screen. You can add a color head-up display that projects driving data to the front windshield.

Standard MB Navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto keep you on course and connected on every drive. The MBUX operating system uses AI to process your commands into the GLE's actions. When you activate the system using "Hey, Mercedes," it uses ongoing advancement to learn your habits. You can save countless customizable settings and transfer them to another Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

The GLS offers second-row seats with headrest pillows. These seats heat, ventilate, and massage passengers for the most comfortable second row imaginable. The GLS also comes with a tablet to control the rear climate. Even the armrests can be heated.

Explore the GLE and GLS Lineup Today in Temecula

You can't go wrong with either the GLE or GLS SUV. The GLE has a more approachable price, with all non-AMG trims costing less than the base-model GLS, but there's nothing basic about the GLS. You still get the pinnacle of luxury appointments crafted in a timeless style. If you can't decide between them, we invite you to shop our virtual inventory for more inspiration. Once you find a model you want to examine closer, visit our Temecula Center Drive showroom and speak with a consultant. They'll answer your questions and coordinate a test drive of your preferred vehicle.