2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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. Our test vehicle, the GLS 450, featured the new Manufaktur Edition Package, which added 21-inch AMG wheels, the AMG Line Exterior Package, the Night Package, and the Exclusive Package. These enhancements included massaging front seats and heated second-row captain’s chairs, exclusive paint colors, premium leather upholstery, and Natural Grain Grey Oak interior wood trim. The GLS 450's interior, reminiscent of the smaller GLE-Class, boasted high-quality materials, though it exhibited body creaks on cold mornings. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, and the control layout, while idiosyncratic, was easy to acclimate to.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, available with a turbocharged gas engine, a hybrid powertrain, and a powerful Hybrid Max configuration, ranged in price from $43,855 to $61,770. Our test vehicle, the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum, featured Storm Cloud paint and no additional options, bringing the MSRP to $61,770. The design drew inspiration from the RAV4, resulting in a familiar yet grander appearance. The interior prioritized function over form, with the Platinum trim adding a layer of luxury. The climate system was user-friendly, but the infotainment interface had a small volume knob and lacked a tuning knob. The Grand Highlander offered seating for up to eight and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for families.

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 AWD, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.8 seconds. The GLS 450 achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, though our test drive yielded 19.4 mpg. The Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLS boasted a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and featured a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension, enhancing ride and handling. Despite occasional delays in responsiveness, the turbo-six engine provided satisfying acceleration and a tailored driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max combined a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with electronic full-time AWD and two electric motors, producing 362 horsepower. This setup allowed for quick acceleration, aided by a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. The Hybrid Max achieved a fuel economy rating of 27 mpg, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. During testing, it averaged 26 mpg on a balanced city and highway route and 23.3 mpg on a mountainous evaluation loop. The powertrain offered rewarding acceleration, while the ride quality was soft and isolating. Handling was secure at moderate speeds, though the tires scrubbed and squealed early when pushed. The Grand Highlander provided excellent outward visibility, but the front camera's frequent screen takeover was a minor annoyance.

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 features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and optional massaging seats. The Manufaktur Edition Package added fabric pillows to the front-seat head restraints, though they were not well-received. The third-row seat offered good thigh support, but legroom was snug. Storage was limited, with a small center armrest bin and shallow door pockets. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offered comfortable seating in all three rows, with a maximum cargo space of nearly 100 cubic feet. Our test vehicle featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery. The second-row captain’s chairs allowed for easy access to the third row, which provided reasonable comfort for adults and tall teens. The Grand Highlander offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.5 cubic feet with the second row folded down. However, many storage locations were unlined, potentially contributing to noise and vibration.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a retro yet luxurious feel. The MBUX infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a standard Burmester surround-sound system. Options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The digital assistant, activated by saying “Hey Mercedes,” was generally effective, though it struggled with some commands.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to music accounts. The system was easy to use, though the font was sometimes difficult to read. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, and the Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and surround-view camera system. The JBL premium audio system exceeded expectations.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. Parking was facilitated by sensors and a surround-view camera system. However, rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional, and the hands-on driver-assistance system required active participation from the driver.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. The lane-keep assist system worked with adaptive cruise control for a high level of automation. The Grand Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection.