2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtle sensuality that, while bordering on the mundane, promised to age gracefully. Our GLS 450 test vehicle, adorned with striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint, stood out in a sea of blacked-out trends. Inside, the GLS 450 featured a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating an inviting and luxurious environment.

In contrast, the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport emphasized a sportier aesthetic within the Range Rover family, with a taller stance and a shorter wheelbase that lent it an athletic appearance. Despite its large front air intakes and faux vents, the Sport sometimes appeared too tall and narrow. The SV Edition 2, our test model, boasted a Marl Grey exterior with carbon-fiber elements, including 23-inch wheels and a hood with an exposed patch. Inside, the Range Rover Sport featured a minimalist design with red leather upholstery and sport seats, though the high console and dash created a more enclosed feel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth and swift acceleration. It reached 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, aided by a mild-hybrid system that added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered a choice of driving modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered multiple powertrain options, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 355 to 395 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid with up to 543 hp, and a BMW-sourced twin-turbo V8 with 523 to 626 hp. The SV Edition Two, with 626 hp, was the most powerful Range Rover model, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. The Range Rover Sport's sport-tuned air suspension, four-wheel steering, and brake-based torque vectoring provided agile handling, while its Terrain Response system and off-road capabilities maintained its traditional strengths.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with supple leather surfaces, massaging front seats, and excellent visibility. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom, though accessing the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with up to 84.7 cubic feet available. However, the AMG Line package's side sill trim could be inconvenient when entering or exiting the vehicle.

The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, a two-row, five-seater, provided adequate headroom and legroom, though it fell short compared to some competitors. The reclining rear seats and 20-way power-adjustable front seats offered comfort, while the cargo space of 31.9 cubic feet behind the second row was substantial. The Range Rover Sport's towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds was competitive, and its air suspension facilitated easier loading and unloading.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could be frustrating. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology enhanced the audio experience, while the augmented reality navigation system provided helpful guidance.

The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included a 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.1-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The minimalist design, while visually appealing, relied heavily on the touchscreen for controls, which could be less convenient. The Pivi Pro infotainment system was responsive, and the Meridian audio system offered an immersive experience, though the "Body and Soul Seats" feature felt gimmicky.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) through MBUX. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were effective without being intrusive. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems performed smoothly, handling various driving conditions with ease.

The 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included standard driver-assist features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 360-degree camera system and digital rearview mirror aided visibility, though parking sensors were overly sensitive. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.