2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC retained its familiar design, ensuring it did not alienate its loyal fanbase. The redesign was subtle, with new taillights and repositioned door handles, but it maintained a resemblance to its predecessor. The headlights were narrower and more aggressive, while the taillights were connected by a trim piece across the back. The trunk design was updated, with less chrome and a more pronounced kick-down. The GLC Coupe's steeply sloping profile remained its defining feature, giving it a fastback roof that barely formed a trunk. The grille differentiated the AMG models from the GLC 300, with the AMG featuring vertical bars reminiscent of a pinstriped baseball uniform. Inside, the GLC's interior was luxurious, with two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The cabin was filled with screens, buttons, ambient lighting, and vents, making it gadget-heavy and class-leading in its segment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality in its design, which, while bordering on boring, aged well. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint color. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents. The GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 450's interior was comfortable, with leather surfaces, heating and ventilation, massage programs, and a wide range of adjustments. The second-row captain’s chairs were a no-charge option, and the GLS offered expansive legroom and a panoramic sunroof. However, accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome, and the space was snug for adults.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's 385 hp twin-turbo V6. The engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The GLC 43 outperformed the base GLC 300, which offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 300 was rear-wheel-drive, with an optional 4Matic all-wheel-drive model. The GLC 43 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with a multi-clutch system, providing faster shifts and better torque handling. The performance suspension offered improved handling but resulted in a firmer ride. Enthusiasts appreciated the standard four-wheel steering and sporty nature of the AMG GLC.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 450 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with a nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The GLS offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The GLS 450 provided a sublime driving experience, with responsive powertrain and steering, and an adaptive air suspension that handled twisty roads well. The large Continental Premium Contact tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably. The GLS also featured an Off-Road menu within MBUX, providing a transparent view through the hood for off-roading.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe offered 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The Coupe's hatchback-like configuration allowed for more space when needed.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling but had side sill trim that could get in the way. The front seats were comfortable, with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The GLS offered expansive second-row legroom and a panoramic sunroof. Accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome, and the space was snug for adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. It included a responsive voice command system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and optional navigation and Burmester 3D surround sound system. The Pinnacle trim added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The GLC offered a $300 Advanced USB package, increasing USB-C ports from three to six.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, running the latest MBUX system. The system offered improved graphics and various themes and modes. However, touch-sensitive areas on the steering wheel and center console could cause unwanted changes. The MBUX system was otherwise intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The GLS featured a Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, blind-spot and exit warning assist, adaptive braking technology, and active parking assist. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for a crash by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. Optional advanced driver-assistance systems were available in the Driver Assistance Package.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) could be adjusted through MBUX, allowing for customization of alerts and sensitivity. The GLS's ADAS provided effective forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems handled various driving conditions smoothly. The GLS's ADAS was praised for its transparency and effectiveness.