What is the difference between GLE and GLS?
3 Answers
The differences between GLE and GLS are as follows: Power difference: In terms of power, the GLE is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, and the new model does not have a naturally aspirated engine. The transmission is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The GLE offers a choice between a 2.0T 258 horsepower and a 3.0T 367 horsepower turbocharged engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, with a maximum torque of 370, a maximum power of 190 kW, and a top speed of 250 km/h. In terms of power options, the GLS only offers a 3.0T 367 horsepower turbocharged engine, also paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Space and size difference: In terms of external dimensions, the GLE measures 4955mm x 2018mm x 1716mm with a wheelbase of 2908mm. The GLS measures 5214mm x 1956mm x 1823mm with a wheelbase of 2870mm. It can be seen that the GLE has a longer wheelbase than the GLS and a wider body, but the GLS is larger in terms of body length and height. Comparing the interior space, the GLS has better headroom than the GLE due to its higher body height (1823mm vs. 1716mm). The difference in passenger space between the two vehicles is not significant, but the GLS clearly has much better interior and comfort levels than the GLE.
I've driven both of these before. As a family man who often takes my wife and kids out, I found that the GLE is a mid-size SUV with decent but not huge space. It fits five people comfortably, but gets a bit cramped with lots of luggage - the trunk can only hold one or two large suitcases before it's nearly full. The optional third row is quite tight. The GLS is much more spacious, with standard three-row seating for seven passengers. Even adults won't feel uncomfortable in the third row, and the trunk is enormous - easily accommodating bicycles and picnic gear for family trips. The GLS offers better visibility with its higher seating position and feels more stable at highway speeds. If you have a large family or enjoy road trips, the GLS is the top choice. The GLE suits young couples or city commuting better - it's easier to park and handles well for daily driving. As for pricing, the GLS costs more but justifies it with the extra space. Maintenance costs are similar, and both deliver Mercedes' reliable quality.
I'm a driving enthusiast who always pays attention to a car's handling. The GLE feels more sporty than the GLS, with its smaller body allowing for quicker turns, faster acceleration in city traffic, and more responsive handling—making it exciting and agile, perfect for someone like me who loves fun drives. The GLS, being larger and heavier, offers stable and comfortable highway cruising with less fatigue on long trips, but its wider turning radius makes it a bit awkward on narrow city roads. Both have similar engines in terms of power, but the GLE is lighter, so it has slightly better fuel efficiency. The GLS has a softer suspension setup, absorbing bumps more smoothly, while the GLE's firmer suspension provides better feedback. If you frequently take short trips or drive on mountain roads, the GLE is the more thrilling choice; if long highway drives are your priority, the GLS is more comfortable. There's not much difference in terms of parts—maintenance is straightforward, and Mercedes-Benz service centers are widely available.
