What are the differences between Mercedes-Benz GL and GLS?
4 Answers
The differences between Mercedes-Benz GL and GLS: 1. Different grilles: The Mercedes-Benz GL adopts a double-slat hollow grille design; the Mercedes-Benz GLS also uses a double-slat hollow grille design. 2. Different lighting systems: The Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with xenon smart headlights; the Mercedes-Benz GLS features LED smart headlights. 3. Different wheels: The Mercedes-Benz GL comes with 20-inch wheels; the Mercedes-Benz GLS is fitted with 21-inch light alloy wheels. 4. Different powertrains: The Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission; the Mercedes-Benz GLS has a 9-speed automatic transmission. 5. Different safety features: The Mercedes-Benz GL does not include side impact protection and automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbag; the Mercedes-Benz GLS is equipped with side impact protection and automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbag.
I've been driving Mercedes-Benz for years, and the difference between the GL and GLS is as stark as classic old movies versus Hollywood blockbusters. The GL is the older SUV model, produced from 2012 to 2019. It drives steadily and smoothly, but the technology feels a bit outdated, with a more plastic-heavy interior. The space is sufficient but lacks innovation. The GLS, launched post-2019 as the upgraded version, is a significant leap forward. It features the latest MBUX system, with touchscreen responsiveness akin to a large iPad, and advanced driver assistance like adaptive cruise control for more relaxed highway driving. While their sizes are similar, the GLS boasts upgraded air suspension for better shock absorption on bumpy roads. The overall luxury feel is greatly enhanced, with Nappa leather seats that make long drives of two to three hours much more comfortable. The GLS is also slightly more fuel-efficient, with mild hybrid technology reducing city driving consumption by about a liter. Buying a used GL saves money, but driving the new GLS feels like entering a whole new world.
I'm fascinated by car data, and the numbers show significant differences between the Mercedes GL and GLS. The GL is equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine, delivering around 270 horsepower, providing smooth acceleration on highways. In contrast, the GLS features a 3.0T mild hybrid system, boosting up to 367 horsepower with additional electric assistance, offering quicker start-up response and better fuel efficiency. In terms of the system, the GL uses the older Comand interface with hard buttons, while the GLS has a fully touch-sensitive MBUX system with voice control—just say "adjust the AC" and it's done. Both models are close in size, with a length of around five meters, but the GLS has better-optimized interior space, offering more legroom in the back seats. For safety, the GL comes with basic collision prevention, whereas the GLS includes standard automatic braking and lane-keeping assistance, providing better accident protection. Maintenance-wise, the GLS, with its hybrid components, has longer service intervals, making it more cost-effective in the long run. For daily driving, the GLS is more effortless, while the GL leans towards a more classic but practical feel.
As an SUV daily user, I find the GLS significantly enhances my commuting and child-carrying experience. Compared to my friend's GL, the space is similar with three rows of seats, but the GLS has adjustable backrests that are softer, making it more comfortable for kids who don't fuss. On city roads, the GLS's assisted driving is a big help, automatically stopping and going in traffic jams to reduce fatigue, while the GL requires more manual effort, which is tiring. The GLS's interior uses better materials that are easy to clean—spilled juice wipes right off. Fuel consumption in the city is about 12 liters for the GLS, compared to nearly 15 liters for the GL. The price difference is significant; a new GLS is much more expensive, but a used GL can be half the price. Starting the engine, the GLS is quieter and smoother.
