2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs GLE: Differences compared side by side

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS (X167) vs GLE (W167) have now both been launched. See how much effort Daimler went into differentiating the two SUVs.

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Once again, the GLS and GLE are the big and bigger SUVs in the Mercedes-Benz range. Both share the new MHA architecture, and a lot more besides.

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Not that you would call the GLE small, but the GLS is really big. It's 283mm (11.1-in) longer at 5,207mm (205-in), and has a 140mm (5.5-in) longer wheelbase at 3,135mm (123.4-in).

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You can really see the difference in the size of the rear doors on the GLS.

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As with earlier generations, the GLS has a unified side window graphic, while the GLE has a body colour C-pillar and a rear quarter light that blends into the tailgate glass.

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The GLS looks to have a unique bonnet. Both cars will share many of the same I6 and V8 engines, but the GLS580 exclusively features (for now) the turbocharged mild hybrid V8 powertrain with 360kW (489hp) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft), and an electric motor with 16kW (22hp) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft).

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The GLS has Multibeam LED headlights as standard, and like the S-Class has a three daytime lighting strips compared to the GLE and E-Class' two.

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The GLE and GLS seem to share their front doors and front fenders.

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The GLS is said to be a few millimetres wider than the GLE, that probably comes down to plastic wider fender extensions. Don't be fooled by these photos, the GLE is available with body colour extensions.

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On the inside, Mercedes-Benz has expended much less effort in separating the two cars, hoping, again, space will be the compelling factor. The GLE and GLS share the same dashboard, with any differences limited to trim choices. As with all other new Mercedes-Benz models, both SUVs come with a digital instrumentation screen and the MBUX infotainment system.

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