2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, four years into its lifecycle, underwent a refresh that maintained its upright stance, low belt line, and large windows. However, the new illuminated grille and welcome-lighting sequence gave it a fresh vibe, inspired by the all-electric Wagoneer S. The Upland trim added front recovery hooks that enhanced utility without compromising the elegant design. Inside, the cabin exuded modernity with clean design and strong horizontal lines. The 12-inch infotainment screen, though slightly small for the vehicle's size, was complemented by redundant HVAC and audio controls. The seats, while plain in appearance, offered comfort and adjustability, making long drives pleasant. The use of premium materials, such as Nappa and Palermo leather, and a suede headliner, contributed to the upscale feel, with the solid metal gearshift dial adding a touch of luxury.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS, still in its third generation, received significant updates for the year. The new front end featured a galaxy-like appearance with headlights and grille adorned with three-pointed star elements. The rear echoed this motif with new taillights set into a one-piece panel. The GLS lineup included the six-cylinder GLS 450 4Matic and V8 GLS 580 4Matic, along with the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 680. The facelifted model, with its increased bling, aimed to stand out against competitors like the Escalade and Range Rover. Inside, the Superscreen display spanned the dashboard, offering a bold yet divisive aesthetic. The interior retained its high level of fit and finish, with ambient lighting enhancing the cabin's special feel. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof, drawing comparisons to the S-Class.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a standard 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and effortless power, even for a vehicle weighing around 6,000 pounds. Although the high-output Hurricane engine was no longer available, the standard engine still impressed with its performance. The Grand Wagoneer was also set to receive a range-extended electric powertrain, offering an estimated 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque, with a total range of over 500 miles. Despite its large size, the Grand Wagoneer was agile and easy to drive, with its size helping to absorb road imperfections. The seats were comfortable for long drives, and the vehicle remained relatively quiet.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered updated powertrains for improved responsiveness and reduced noise. The GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0–60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLS 580's twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 produced 530 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, with a 0–60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 680 used a higher-output version of the V8, delivering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The AMG model achieved 0–60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The GLS impressed with its quick acceleration and retained its signature engine sound. The optional E-Active Body Control system provided a smooth ride and enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, offering three rows with ample leg and hip room. The optional second-row bench seat allowed for up to eight passengers, with the third row accommodating three people comfortably. While using the third row reduced cargo space to 27.9 cubic feet, the long-wheelbase version increased it to 42.6 cubic feet. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Features like three-zone automatic climate controls, heated-and-ventilated front seats, and Quadra-Lift air suspension added to its appeal.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS was a six-seater by default, with an option to convert to a seven-seater. It offered generous headroom and legroom across all rows, with third-row legroom comparable to larger competitors. The front seats were comfortable, though tall drivers might struggle to find an ideal position. The optional Executive Rear Seat Package Plus added luxury features like massaging seats and sun blinds. The third row included USB ports and heated seats, with a five-zone climate control system available. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. It had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and an optional trailer-backup assist system.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen display, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims offered features like a front console cooler, digital rearview mirror, and a 23-speaker McIntosh premium sound system. While the tech generally performed well, the wireless phone charger had issues, and the infotainment screen felt small for the vehicle's size. Adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS introduced the Superscreen, comprising three 12.3-inch screens running the new MBUX infotainment system. The interface remained familiar, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto retained. The front-passenger screen offered entertainment options, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system added 11.6-inch screens. A 15-speaker Burmester audio system was standard, with a 26-speaker option available. Other tech options included a head-up display and digital-key functionality.

The 2026 Grand Wagoneer was equipped with safety features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert. Available features included automated parking assist and a surround-view camera system. The Grand Wagoneer received fair ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with a mix of Good and Marginal scores in crash tests.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard driver-assistance features such as lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included steering assist and a surround-view camera system. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of writing, but the GLS featured Mercedes’ Pre-Safe system to minimize injury potential in a collision.