2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vs 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in a limited selection of trims, focusing on the Rugged and Sport designs. The Woodland trim emphasized a more adventurous aesthetic with its extended length, boxy design, and off-road features like all-terrain tires and a black roof rack. The Sport trims, including the exclusive GR Sport, showcased a racier look with gloss black accents, red brake calipers, and a prominent rear wing. The RAV4 maintained its square, truck-like presence, with distinctive lighting elements and a variety of trim-specific details. Inside, the RAV4 offered a streamlined design with a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen options, alongside practical storage solutions and flexible seating arrangements.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS underwent significant updates, presenting a bold new front end with star-themed lighting elements and a refreshed rear design. The GLS lineup included the six-cylinder GLS 450, the V8 GLS 580, the AMG GLS 63, and the luxurious Maybach GLS 680. Each model featured unique styling cues, such as illuminated hood ornaments and sporty body kits. The interior boasted a Superscreen display spanning the dashboard, maintaining high-quality fit and finish with standard leather upholstery and advanced seating options. The GLS offered ample space across three rows, with features like massaging seats and a power-sliding second row enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. This combination resulted in a total output of 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 52 miles and standard all-wheel drive. The vehicle excelled in Auto mode, delivering a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim, with its lower stance and performance tires, provided enhanced handling and reduced body roll, making it a sportier option within the lineup.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powertrains, all featuring an integrated starter/generator electric motor. The GLS 450's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six produced 375 horsepower, while the GLS 580's twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 delivered 530 horsepower. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 680 boasted a higher-output version of the V8, with 603 horsepower. The GLS 580 achieved a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, while the AMG model reached 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The optional E-Active Body Control system provided a smooth ride and enhanced off-road capabilities, making the GLS a versatile performer.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid retained its compact dimensions, offering clever storage solutions and comfortable seating for four passengers. The interior featured a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports. The cargo area provided 33.6 cubic feet of space, expanding to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its compact size, the RAV4 offered practical features like deep door pockets and a removable center console cover.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with seating for six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The second-row captain's chairs could be replaced with a bench seat at no cost. The GLS provided ample headroom and legroom across all three rows, with features like massaging seats and a power-sliding second row enhancing comfort. The cargo area offered 17.4 cubic feet of space, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS also boasted a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen available on top trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with customizable tiles and improved graphics. The Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts, and a built-in dash cam recorded clips from the exterior cameras.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS introduced the Superscreen, a dashboard-spanning display with three 12.3-inch screens. The MBUX infotainment system, based on Mercedes' MB.OS operating system, offered a familiar interface with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GLS also provided entertainment options for passengers, including a front-passenger screen and an optional rear-seat entertainment system. A 15-speaker Burmester audio system was standard, with a 26-speaker system available.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The system's enhancements improved responsiveness and detection, contributing to the RAV4's strong safety record.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured standard driver-assistance technologies such as lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included steering assist, lane-change assist, and a surround-view camera system. Mercedes' Pre-Safe system minimized injury potential in collisions, while Pre-Safe Sound protected against hearing loss.