Compare the Lincoln Navigator to the Mercedes-Benz GLS in Glendale, WI
If you're considering purchasing a luxury three-row SUV, you have several options from which to choose. Two of the more popular choices are the Lincoln Navigator and the Mercedes-Benz GLS Class, both of which deliver the deluxe appointments, spacious interiors, and performance that customers want. We decided to compare introductory models of each SUV in a head-to-head competition. Read on to learn the results.
Performance
The standard 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that powers the Lincoln Navigator manufactures a healthy 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, far outperforming the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 found in the GLS 450 -- which maxes out at 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. That power difference really shows up when you're looking to haul a toy along for a family vacation since the Lincoln Navigator has a best-in-class max tow rating of 8,700 pounds. The GLS 450 offers a max towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.
Both SUVs come with standard automatic transmissions, though the Lincoln Navigator features a 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift; the GLS-450 is equipped with a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the two behemoth SUVs are remarkably similar. The Mercedes-Benz enjoys a minimal advantage when it comes to city mileage estimates, while the Lincoln Navigator delivers the better highway mileage numbers.
Size and Capacity
The exterior of the Lincoln Navigator is longer, wider, and taller than the GLS, offering a more commanding sense of the road and greater command for you, the driver. That size difference shows up inside each SUV, as well. The Lincoln Navigator offers 172.4 cubic feet of passenger space and can be equipped to seat eight people, while the GLS Class limits seating to seven and tops out at 148 cubic feet of passenger space.
When you look at cargo capacity, once again the nod goes to the Lincoln Navigator. With all seats in use, you have 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space available; fold both rows of rear seats down, and you gain access to a spacious 103.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The GLS maxes out at 93.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity when all seats are folded.
Features and Technology
Given that these are luxurious SUVs, it comes as no surprise that they're loaded with the standard amenities today's drivers want, among which are infotainment screens, navigation, and remote keyless entry. However, the standard 10-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system in the Lincoln Navigator is larger and more user-friendly than the 8-inch non-touch color infotainment screen found in the GLS Class. The Lincoln Navigator also comes with standard 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium Revel® audio system that includes HD Radio and 14 speakers; to get similar features in the GLE Class, you need to upgrade the vehicle.
Safety
Both the Lincoln Navigator and the Mercedes-Benz CLS include standard safety features like integrated turn signal mirrors, tire pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. However, the Lincoln Navigator also offers standard features like rear parking aid, fog lamps, and brake assist; these either aren't available for the base GLS model or cost more money to add.
Warranties
The Lincoln Navigator and the Mercedes-Benz GLS are both covered by standard 4-year/50,000-mile basic new car warranties, but the similarities in protection end there. The Lincoln Navigator boasts better coverage terms when it comes drivetrain warranty, corrosion protection, and complimentary Roadside Assistance so that you can drive your Lincoln Navigator with full confidence for a longer period.
Explore the Lincoln Navigator at our Glendale Showroom
Now that you've learned how the Lincoln Navigator SUV stands out when compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS Class, don't you think you owe it to yourself to visit us and take an in-person look? Our team is happy to answer any questions, go into further detail about specific features, and arrange for you to take a decision-confirming test drive.