2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs. GLS: How the Two Midsize and Full-Size SUVs Differ
The GLS is the larger car. It is Mercedes-Benz's full-size flagship SUV and seats seven as standard, on a longer wheelbase with a taller roofline and more third-row and cargo room. The GLE is the midsize SUV in the same styling language: five seats as standard, a third row available as an option, and a shorter, easier-to-park body. If you need a third row every day, that is the GLS. If you need one occasionally, the GLE does it for less.
GLE vs GLS at a glance
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | Mercedes-Benz GLS | |
|---|---|---|
| Segment | Midsize luxury SUV | Full-size luxury SUV |
| Standard seating | 5 | 7 |
| Third row | Available as an option | Standard |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive | 4MATIC all-wheel drive |
| Where it sits in the range | The core midsize Mercedes-Benz SUV | The flagship Mercedes-Benz SUV |
| At Benzel-Busch right now | 132 new, from $69,815 Mercedes-Benz GLE | 35 new, from $95,070 Mercedes-Benz GLS |
Which one should you buy?
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Choose the GLE if you want the midsize footprint, mostly carry four or five people, and would rather put the difference in price toward options or a higher-output engine.
Browse GLE inventoryMercedes-Benz GLS
Choose the GLS if the third row is in daily use, you regularly carry six or seven, or you want the largest cabin and cargo hold Mercedes-Benz builds in an SUV.
Browse GLS inventoryCommon questions
Is the GLS bigger than the GLE?
Yes. The GLS is Mercedes-Benz's full-size SUV and is longer and taller than the midsize GLE, with more third-row and cargo space.
What is the main difference between the GLE and the GLS?
Seating and size. The GLS seats seven as standard; the GLE seats five as standard with a third row available as an option. The GLS is the larger, more expensive flagship.
Which is more expensive, the GLE or the GLS?
The GLS. It sits above the GLE in the Mercedes-Benz SUV range as the full-size flagship, so it starts higher and its option packages run higher too.
Does the GLE have a third row?
A third row is available on the GLE as an option, but it is best suited to occasional use. On the GLS the third row is standard and sized for adults.