2025 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, aligning its appearance with the larger Chevrolet Traverse. The updated model featured a flat roof, upright grille, and distinctive “shark fin” C-pillar, giving it a modern and robust look. Each trim level offered unique exterior styling elements, with the base Equinox LT available in chrome or a contemporary Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment. The RS trim, known for its sportier design, included black mirrors, badges, and red RS emblems, while the new ACTIV trim showcased dark chrome accents and all-terrain tires. The interior of the Equinox was also revamped, with a focus on texture and design, offering a more open and spacious feel. The RS and ACTIV trims featured distinct interior themes, with the ACTIV trim introducing a “Maple Sugar and Black” theme that lightened the cabin, while the RS trim offered a darker, sportier look with red highlights and contrast stitching.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of models, including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices ranging from $91,600 to $181,350. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, which added 21-inch AMG wheels, exclusive paint colors, and premium interior materials. The GLS boasted high-quality materials and detailing, although some body creaks were noted on chilly mornings. The interior was similar to the smaller Mercedes GLE-Class, with standard ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the ambiance. The dual 12.3-inch displays provided a classic yet functional approach to infotainment, with the MBUX system offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GLS was praised for its tailored feel, offering a comfortable and manageable driving experience in urban and suburban settings.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied with the powertrain, offering 184 lb-ft in front-wheel-drive models and 203 lb-ft in all-wheel-drive versions. The Equinox featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD versions. The eight-speed automatic was noted for its improved performance over the previous six-speed, providing smoother and quieter shifts. The Equinox offered selectable drive modes, including Normal, Snow, and Off-Road, enhancing its versatility. The AWD model could tow up to 1,500 pounds, while FWD models were limited to 800 pounds.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain included a mild-hybrid assist and a nine-speed automatic transmission, with standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive. The GLS 450 accelerated from 0-60 mph in a manufacturer-estimated 5.8 seconds. The GLS offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, with a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension enhancing ride quality. The GLS had a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, making it a strong contender in its class. The powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, but the turbo-six engine provided a satisfying sound under hard acceleration.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard on the RS and ACTIV trims. A $950 package added front seat ventilation, heated rear seats, and driver’s seat memory. The Equinox featured Evotex seats, providing a premium feel without genuine leather. The flat roof design allowed for consistent headroom, with 38.2 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the rear with the moonroof. Cargo space was slightly reduced, offering 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded down. A hidden storage compartment beneath the load floor added convenience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain’s chairs as a no-cost option. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with standard four-zone climate control and heated and ventilated front seats. Comfort upgrades included massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated and cooled cupholders. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain’s chairs with a pass-through to the third row. Cargo space measured 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down. Storage locations were limited, but the glove compartment was spacious.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured Google Built-In as standard, along with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration allowed for flexible infotainment use, projecting onto the driver information display. The Equinox’s tech features included an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard on RS and ACTIV trims, with no option for an upgraded sound system.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a navigation system with augmented reality enhancement and online music access. A standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided excellent audio quality. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant capable of executing various commands.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package for $1,085, adding rear pedestrian alert, HD surround vision, and more. The Chevy Safety Assist suite included standard features like rear park assist, lane-change alert, and adaptive cruise control. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to program speed and volume limitations and provided a “report card” of driving behavior.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLS featured a surround-view camera system and parking sensors, but rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional. The hands-on driver-assistance system required active participation, with some limitations noted on curvy roads. The GLS braked harder than necessary in certain situations, but overall, it provided a smooth and refined driving experience.