2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2026 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS, available in several trims including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, was a luxurious SUV with prices ranging from $91,600 to $181,350. Our test vehicle, the GLS 450, featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, which added sporty AMG wheels, exclusive paint options, and premium interior materials. Despite its high-quality materials and detailing, the GLS exhibited some body creaks on cold mornings. The interior boasted dual 12.3-inch displays, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. The control layout, with seat adjusters on the doors and a gear-selector stalk on the steering column, required some acclimation, but the displays were well-integrated into the dashboard.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, presented itself as a near-luxury crossover. Starting at $56,105, it offered features like full-LED lighting, power-adjustable mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The Atlas excelled in providing a spacious and comfortable interior, with quilted diamond-pattern leather seats and metallic accents. The 12-inch touchscreen and Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster promised a high-tech experience, though the infotainment system was criticized for its complexity. Despite its stylish design, the Atlas struggled with ride quality, especially on the top trim's large wheels, which transmitted vibrations into the cabin. However, it remained a competent seven-passenger SUV with ample cargo space.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by 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 a tailored driving experience, with a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension and a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. Despite occasional delays in responsiveness, the turbo-six engine provided a sensational sound under hard acceleration. The GLS excelled in urban and suburban environments, offering a quiet cabin and composed ride.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The Atlas prioritized flexibility over excitement, with peak torque arriving at 1,600 rpm. While initial acceleration felt adequate, the Atlas settled into a competent rhythm once in motion. It recorded 22 mpg during testing, slightly better than the EPA's 21 mpg estimate. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, but the Atlas struggled with ride quality, particularly on the SEL Premium R-Line's large wheels.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered seven-passenger seating as standard, with a six-passenger configuration available. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and optional massaging seats. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain's chairs, offering generous legroom and outstanding support. However, storage locations were limited, and the cargo space, while adequate, fell short of traditional full-size luxury SUVs. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage, providing comfort over long drives. The second row featured captain's chairs that folded flat, allowing easy access to the third row. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded. It provided competitive space across all three rows, making it an excellent choice for hauling people and belongings in comfort.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a standard Burmester surround-sound system. The MBUX system was easy to use, with a digital assistant that responded to voice commands. However, the assistant occasionally struggled with specific requests. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SEL Premium R-Line added a Harman Kardon audio system and a head-up display. While the interface looked sharp, it required numerous presses and taps to accomplish tasks. The touch-sensitive slider controls were invisible at night, making basic functions frustrating to execute. The voice control system was unreliable, prompting a recommendation to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for a better experience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. It featured a surround-view camera system and parking sensors, but rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional. The GLS required active driver participation, with a hands-on system that struggled with sharp curves. It braked harder than necessary in certain situations, but overall, it behaved like a smooth and refined partner on longer drives.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard across all trims, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed reliably during testing, even in Seattle traffic. The SEL Premium R-Line added Park Assist, but the Atlas was easy to maneuver without it.