2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete redesign, marking the beginning of its third generation. It embraced a modern aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Volkswagen's electric vehicle lineup, particularly evident in its front design. The narrower headlights and illuminated VW badge and light bar in the top SEL R-Line trim added a sleek touch. The grille appeared larger, though the actual openings were smaller, flanked by prominent air intakes. The side profile featured a sportier tapering hatch, enhanced by a contrasting roof and tinted windows. The rear showcased a single bar taillight design, echoing the front's illuminated elements. Inside, the Tiguan adopted a minimalist approach, with a tablet-like infotainment display and a digital instrument panel. The gear selector moved to the steering column, freeing up storage space. While materials were average for its class, the interior could benefit from covering hard plastic areas to improve its impression.

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 spanning from $91,600 to $181,350. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, adding AMG wheels, exclusive paint colors, and premium interior materials. The GLS exuded luxury with high-quality materials and detailing, though body creaks were noted on chilly mornings. The interior boasted standard ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a choice of upholstery and trim options. The dual 12.3-inch displays provided a classic touch, and the MBUX infotainment system was user-friendly. The GLS offered a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive, while Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive was available on all models and standard on the top SEL R-Line trim. The Tiguan's acceleration was expected to be similar to its predecessor, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. The drivetrain delivered power smoothly, and the suspension favored comfort while maintaining composure on winding roads. The cabin remained quiet, even on coarse asphalt, providing a comfortable driving experience. A more powerful Turbo version was anticipated for 2026, offering 268 hp and 258 lb-ft, appealing to spirited drivers. Volkswagen also hinted at an upcoming hybrid powertrain.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.8 seconds. The GLS 450 offered acceptable fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, though real-world testing yielded 19.4 mpg. The Dynamic Select system provided various driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLS boasted a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The powertrain exhibited occasional delays in responsiveness, but the turbo-six engine sounded impressive under hard acceleration. The GLS offered a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan returned without a third row of seats, resulting in increased second-row legroom by 1.5 inches. Headroom remained sufficient for average-sized adults. The elimination of capacitive-touch buttons improved usability, with traditional controls on the steering wheel. Outward visibility was comparable to other small SUVs, and the center console offered ample storage space. Cargo capacity was not finalized, but the new cargo area appeared smaller than before. The Tiguan featured remote seatback releases and a power liftgate on all but the base trim.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain’s chairs as an option. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging options. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain’s chairs with generous legroom. Storage locations were limited, but the glove compartment was spacious. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The cargo cover was a minor inconvenience during loading and unloading.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan came standard with a digital instrument panel and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional 15-inch display on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless phone charger. The infotainment system featured capacitive-touch sliders, but a new volume knob improved usability. The Atmospheres feature combined ambient lighting and audio settings to enhance mood. The standard audio system performed well, with an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon system available on the top trim.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a navigation system with augmented reality, were standard. The GLS included a standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology, with an optional high-end Burmester 3D audio system. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant for voice commands.

The 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan's crash test results were not available, but it offered standard advanced safety features, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Emergency Assist system and post-collision braking were also included. Higher trims added a head-up display, surround-view camera, and semi-automated parking system. The safety features functioned well, with no false alarms or sensitivity issues.

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 Car-to-X Communication system prepared for future road hazard warnings. Parking was aided by sensors and a surround-view camera system. The GLS required active driver participation, with a hands-on system for highway driving. The braking system occasionally braked harder than necessary, but overall, the GLS provided a smooth and refined driving experience.