2027 Range Rover vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS: Features, Specs, and Capability Compared

The 2027 Range Rover offers up to 606 hp, up to 11.5 inches of off-road ground clearance, standard all-wheel steering, and both five- and seven-passenger configurations. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS uses a standard three-row, seven-passenger layout and offers a range of mild-hybrid powertrains and driver-assistance technologies.

This page compares key specifications, performance, interior space, technology, and capability to help clients understand the differences before viewing current Range Rover inventory at Land Rover of Grand Rapids.

The Short Answer

Range Rover may appeal to clients who prioritize terrain capability, low-range gearing, multiple powertrain choices, and a choice between Standard and Long Wheelbase configurations. Available P550e also adds plug-in hybrid capability.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS provides seven-passenger seating as its standard layout and includes a broad selection of comfort, infotainment, and driver-assistance technology.

Both vehicles offer distinct approaches to full-size luxury SUV design, with different priorities in seating, capability, powertrains, and cabin configuration.

2027 Range Rover trims and specifications

Specs Head-to-Head

At higher-output configurations, Range Rover SV and SV Ultra use the P615 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 producing 606 hp. Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is rated at 603 hp.

EPA fuel economy data

Performance and Powertrain

The 2027 Range Rover powertrain lineup includes four configurations.

P400 uses a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 mild-hybrid powertrain producing 395 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. In Standard Wheelbase specification, it reaches 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. P530 uses a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, with a listed 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds in the applicable Standard Wheelbase configuration. P550e adds plug-in hybrid capability through a 3.0L inline-6 gasoline engine and electric motor, producing 543 hp. P615, used in applicable SV and SV Ultra configurations, produces 606 hp from a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 and reaches 60 mph in 4.3 seconds in the applicable configuration.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 produces 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque from a 3.0L inline-6 mild-hybrid powertrain, with a listed 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. GLS 580 uses a 4.0L biturbo V8 producing 510 hp, while Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 produces 603 hp. The 2026 GLS lineup described here does not include a plug-in hybrid configuration, while Range Rover offers P550e for clients considering a PHEV.

Range Rover pairs the 8-speed automatic transmission with a twin-speed transfer box providing high- and low-range gearing. The GLS uses a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic with 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Interior, Space, and Cargo

Seating configuration is one of the clearest structural differences between the two model ranges. Most Range Rover Standard and Long Wheelbase configurations seat five. Select Long Wheelbase configurations, including P400 SE LWB 7 and P530 SE LWB 7, add a third seating row and provide seating for up to seven passengers. The Mercedes-Benz GLS uses a three-row, seven-passenger layout as standard.

In Standard Wheelbase Range Rover, front headroom measures 39.3 inches with the panoramic roof, front legroom reaches 39.8 inches, and rear legroom measures 40.4 inches. Long Wheelbase configurations provide up to 48.0 inches of second-row legroom depending on seating layout and specification. The GLS provides 40.3 inches of front legroom, 41.9 inches in the second row, and 34.6 inches of third-row legroom.

Maximum cargo capacity reaches 83.5 cubic feet in the applicable Range Rover configuration and 84.7 cubic feet in the GLS. Range Rover Standard Wheelbase five-seat configurations provide 40.7 cubic feet behind the second row. Cargo measurements for GLS vary according to which seating rows are in use. Range Rover SE includes perforated Windsor leather seating and a sliding panoramic roof. Autobiography adds equipment such as a Meridian Signature Sound System, rear seat entertainment, and a front console refrigerator.

SV specifications introduce additional materials and seating features, while SV Ultra adds further interior personalization, including Orchid White perforated Ultrafabrics seating and an available electrostatic audio system. The GLS 450 includes MB-Tex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panorama roof. Additional seating, upholstery, comfort, and convenience features vary by configuration and option package.

Technology and Safety

Range Rover uses a central touchscreen interface, with physical controls returning for audio and Terrain Response for the 2027 model year. Terrain Response 2 adjusts vehicle settings for different road and terrain conditions, while height-adjustable air suspension and all-wheel steering are included across the lineup. Range Rover also uses a twin-speed transfer box and configuration-specific differential and torque-management technologies to support traction and low-speed terrain operation.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS uses the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Available and standard features include natural-language voice control, navigation technology, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and multiple USB-C ports. GLS 450 also includes several active driver-assistance systems, including Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, and additional parking and highway-assistance technologies.

Range Rover includes driver-assistance and capability systems designed for both road and terrain use, with equipment varying according to specification. Terrain-focused features include Terrain Response 2, Hill Descent Control, adjustable air suspension, all-wheel steering, and low-range gearing.

The Standard Wheelbase Range Rover turning circle is listed at approximately 35.9 feet, compared with 41.1 feet for GLS 450.

Range Rover safety and technology features

Value and Ownership

Both vehicles provide 4-year / 50,000-mile basic warranty coverage and 4-year / 50,000-mile powertrain coverage.

The 2027 Range Rover lineup provides several approaches to power and electrification, including the mild-hybrid P400, V8-powered P530 and P615 configurations, and the P550e plug-in hybrid. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS lineup described here uses mild-hybrid assistance across its gasoline powertrains, ranging from GLS 450 through GLS 580 and Mercedes-AMG GLS 63.

Standard equipment also reflects different priorities. Range Rover SE emphasizes systems such as Terrain Response 2, height-adjustable air suspension, all-wheel steering, and a twin-speed transfer box. GLS 450 includes equipment such as MBUX, Burmester audio, and multiple active driver-assistance technologies as standard or available depending on specification.

For fuel economy, both Range Rover P400 and GLS 450 are rated at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway in the specifications compared here. Other powertrains carry different efficiency ratings according to configuration.

Range Rover powertrain options explained

Which SUV Fits Your Priorities?

Both vehicles provide similar maximum towing ratings and equivalent basic and powertrain warranty terms in the configurations compared here. The appropriate choice depends on seating needs, terrain capability, powertrain preferences, and desired cabin technology.

Frequently Asked Questions