What are the differences between the Mercedes-Benz GL400 and GLS400?

[MacJohnny]

Differences are as follows: 1. Model: The GLS400 is a mid-term facelift of the GL400. 2. Exterior: The most notable difference lies in the front grille, featuring an oversized three-pointed star emblem and dual horizontal slats that are highly distinctive. Other changes include new front and rear bumpers, headlights, taillights, and wheels. Additionally, elements such as the roof rails, underbody protection panels, window surrounds, trunk handle, and side skirts incorporate extensive use of chrome accents. 3. Interior: The new dashboard includes a semi-embedded display, and the three-spoke leather steering wheel is equipped with 12 control buttons. The GLS400 features an 8-inch central display and a multi-touch handwriting touchpad. Further details are as follows: 1. Overview: The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a crossover SUV from Mercedes-Benz. It adopts a four-seat design similar to the ML-Class. Like the BMW X6 and the upcoming Audi Q6, the Mercedes-Benz GLS will also feature a sloping coupe-style roofline. 2. Specifications: The Mercedes-Benz GLS is likely to be positioned as a high-performance sports model, equipped with either a V6 or V8 engine. If an AMG version is introduced in this segment, it will be powered by a 6.2-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

[VanRafael]

The Mercedes-Benz GL400 and GLS400 are primarily related as predecessor and successor models. The GL400 was the style before 2014, featuring a more boxy and classic exterior design, with simple and practical elements like the front grille and headlights. The GLS400, introduced after 2015 as the upgraded version, boasts a noticeably smoother and more modern design, including narrower LED headlights, a streamlined body, and aerodynamic optimizations that reduce drag at high speeds for better fuel efficiency. I think the GLS400 also made significant strides in interior quality—the older GL had stiffer seat materials that could be tiring on long trips, while the newer version offers softer, more supportive seating with slightly adjusted rear space, making it much easier for kids to get in and out. The platform upgrade includes a smarter 4WD system for stronger grip on slippery roads, and the chassis tuning leans toward comfort. Overall, the generational shift is strong, moving from old to new as naturally as transitioning from a keypad phone to a touchscreen.

[DelEliza]

As a frequent SUV user, I've driven both the GL400 and GLS400, and there are quite a few differences in daily use. The GL400 feels sturdy and stable when you sit inside, with a wide field of view, but the interior has more plastic elements and the steering wheel is heavier. The GLS400 has a significantly upgraded interior with finer leather finishes, a touchscreen infotainment system supporting CarPlay, and a clearer rearview camera. In terms of space, the GLS400 offers more legroom in the back, making it less cramped when traveling with kids. Noise control is better in the new GLS, with quieter engine noise and improved highway silence. The driving feel of the older GL is more solid with stable off-road capability, while the new GLS has more responsive all-wheel drive, making it more agile for city turns, and parking assist cameras are helpful for beginners. Safety features like blind-spot monitoring come standard on the GLS but are missing on the GL. After the model update, fuel efficiency improved by about 10%, saving some money at the pump.

[LaZane]

Technical analysis of the differences between the GL400 and GLS400. The GL is based on Mercedes-Benz's previous-generation M platform, featuring a robust chassis suitable for off-road use; the GLS adopts a new platform with reduced body weight, retaining the 3.0T engine but with slightly increased power and marginally lower fuel consumption. The electronic systems have seen significant upgrades—the older GL used traditional instrument clusters with numerous center console buttons prone to fingerprints; the GLS features large digital screens, smoother operation, and supports smartphone mirroring. Driver assistance features have been added, such as automatic braking and lane-keeping. The four-wheel-drive system has been optimized for faster response and better stability in rain or snow. The GLS offers optional air suspension with adjustable stiffness for flexible comfort settings. In safety crash tests, the new GLS scores higher. Maintenance-wise, the new system allows for quicker diagnostics and longer service intervals.

[BryceAnn]

My experience with the GL400 is that it's an older model with a conservative, reliable, and durable design, strong in off-road performance but with noticeable wind noise at high speeds. The GLS400, as its successor, features a sleek, modern design with high-end interior materials that exude luxury. In terms of space, the GLS has a slight advantage, especially with easier access to the third row, making it more practical for family trips. The technological differences are significant: the older GL has a basic infotainment system that's slow to respond, while the new GLS boasts a smooth, intelligent screen with voice control for convenient operation while driving. Fuel efficiency is better in the GLS, with an engine that averages about 8L/100km compared to the GL's 9L, making it more economical. As times advance, the GLS integrates Mercedes' latest safety technologies, such as fatigue driving alerts. It's worth upgrading if the budget allows.

[Cole]

Daily driving the GL400 feels heavy on the steering wheel and the chassis is bumpy, making city driving tiring; the GLS400 has lighter steering with adjustable electronic power assist, and the comfort mode is softer, making long-distance driving less fatiguing. The interior of the new GLS features finer leather and more delicate stitching, with even airflow adjustment in the air conditioning system. There are more tech upgrades—the old GL often had Bluetooth connection issues, while the new version supports wireless charging, compatibility with both Apple and Android, and a faster screen response. The space has been subtly adjusted, with the GLS's trunk more neatly organized, making it easier to load large items. Safety assists like blind-spot monitoring are practical and reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. It offers multiple driving modes, including snow and sand, with quick automatic switching and fast four-wheel-drive response. Overall, the GLS feels like a smart companion, worry-free and effortless.