benzify

I was building out a GLE450 and by the time I added the options I wanted it’s in the GLS price range. I understand the GLS has 3 rows and is longer than the GLE. But are there are recommendations to go either way other than the 3rd row on the GLS ?

js_cls

Other than the 3rd row, the GLS will offer more cargo space and rear legroom, but of course a tradeoff will be handling and performance due to the larger size and weight of the GLS vs the GLE. Interiors should mostly be identical aside from few bits and pieces.

What are your priorities for the vehicle if you don't mind me asking? Maybe a GLE with the 3rd row option would be the best fit?

benzify

Thanks for the reply.

Mmm.. good question.. it will be a daily driver and the 3rd row is not a must have.

I know it’s not the same comparing a S class v E class to a GLE v GLS but wanted to know if there were any other big differences and if I should “upgrade” to a GLS.

availablechptr

I was in the same boat for the 2020 models. I wanted the GLE but wife wanted the GLS due to more space for the kids and cargo. We did a test drive in both cars - both cars look fantastic of course. I wanted the GLE with 3rd row as well. But after being in the GLS, there is just something about its massive size and space that made me think that I should go with the bigger car even if I don't need to use the 3rd row on a daily basis. It is nice for when I need it to drive 6 others comfortably. After the options I want on the GLE, it is comparable to the price of the GLS so in terms of safety (bigger is better IMO), cargo and interior space, the GLS wins it for me.

On a side note, I am still waiting for the dealer to get the plates from the DMV for 3 weeks now and counting....

c4004matic

Surprisingly many reviewers have reported that the GLS handles better than the GLE! Regardless if you want the most sportiness go for the active suspension. Its the secret sauce that puts the GLE and GLS over all competitors.

Dave Stough

I have both a 2020 GLE350 and a 2021 GLS450. I realize there is a different engine. But I can tell you the GLS ride and handling make me realize what I missed after 10 years of driving sedans! I always liked the handling of a lower vehicle, having had various SUVs (and pickups) in the past. But the new GLS is like driving my last E-class. Probably nicer. I can't wait til the first ski trip next month with all the gear, kids, and great dane in tow!

hyperion667

Neither....both are ugly LOL!

Welcome to the forums!

hyperion667

Damn man you guys are going to be cramped up in there LOL!!

c4004matic

Don't forget the snow tires👍

hyperion667

...and the roof box and tow camper

nc211

We looked at the GLE as well with the 3rd row option. Two things pushed us to the full size GLS - first as the OP noted, price. Not too much of leap for more car. But the main reason was the cargo area, specifically the rake of the back glass window and what that might mean for large items (or our now 100lb dog). The slant of the back gate versus the no slant of the GLS was the deciding factor for us.

MuddyBlueJeans

With 2 tall teenagers and a friend each the GLS is great. Traded in a 2020 Yukon Denali and the GLS has more room in the rear for passengers. We just came back from Yellowstone (just us 4) and the rear cargo was perfect for holding all the luggage and ice chest. Great MPG. If the captains chairs was not an option we would have passed on the Mercedes all together...and with the Tartufo/Black Leather seats with the warmth and comfort rapid heating package for all seats it was great.

While on the interstates the kids rolled up their sun shades and we’re on iPads and phones (aftermarket headrest adaptors a must).

Unsure if it is the rapid “warmth and comfort” package or all GLSs but the defrost gets hot faster than any vehicle I have ever owned or driven. Only thing that was missed is the upgraded wood steering wheel did not come with heat...even with the warmth package which is ridiculous...so double check because it’s something you can’t add later!!

Wolfy90503

I have driven friend's GLE and GLS on road trips and must say they're equivalent to the C and E-class sedans respectively, not E and S-Class as Mercedes marketing and renaming would have you believe. The GLS ride and handling quality is E-class sedan nice but not on the S-Class level (which you'll find in Range Rover HSE that I have also driven).

So in terms of absolutely smoothest most comfortable road trip car, in the context of this thread, it's Range Rover HSE > GLS > GLE.
For sedans, S-Class is still king (surpassed only by Rolls-Royce).

Cheers

c4004matic

The GLE's ride smoothness is excellent. However its handling is much worse than the GLS. I don't know how Mercedes achieved that. In normal driving handling is actually not bad but if you ask anything above normal particularly at highway speeds it becomes complete discombobulated. Unlike any other Mercedes I have driven it does not offer "confidence".

Wolfy90503

Might it have something to do with the stock run-flats?

Jno211

I don’t agree with all the posts.

I’m replacing my ‘15 GL after 100k miles, and test drove 3 GLE and 1 GLS:

1/ GLE with base suspension and 20’: both sluggish in turns and too firm on imperfections. Some owners are happy with it, my opinion is they don’t know what they’re missing.

2/ GLE with airmatic and 20’: comparable with my GL on 18’: comfortable without being wallowy, still firm on bigger imperfections. The ride IS comparable to an E class in my opinion. Cargo is ok, but I have been spoiled with so much space in my GL…

3/ GLS on 22’: it’s not just a GLE with more butt, the ride quality is clearly a class above, even on 22’ it’s much more comfy than my GL on 18’, S-Class territory in my opinion.
Cons: getting big, heavy, and a bit wallowy in Comfort mode.

I pulled the trigger on the big girl, will take delivery next week. I don’t think I will enjoy a spirited drive as much as I did with old one, but I don’t think I will again with post 2020 cars anyway, with all the driving aids in the way.
(Old- and Youngtimers have a bright future, but that’s another subject)

c4004matic

You won't regret it. You read about early production issues but mine has been perfect (21) for 15k

Jno211

To clarify : I did not test a ‘21 S Class and I’m not sure that the GLS ride is similar to the S, but I feel the difference between GLE and GLS is indeed similar to the difference between E and S…