Mercedes

To meet the growing demand for SUVs in the market, Mercedes offers an exhaustive lineup of SUVs, ranging from compact to luxurious three-row models

The market speaks, and the auto industry listens. One would be hard-pressed to find an exception to this rule. Times change and the industry needs to keep up with it. Whether due to government regulation as we're seeing with the electrification efforts being undertaken by manufacturers, or be it because the consumer demands a specific type of vehicle. And no other trend has been more apparent than the demand for SUVs and Crossovers from all price ranges and sizes over the last few years.

Mercedes-Benz took this seriously, and today offers the market a complete lineup of SUVs ranging from compact, lightweight, and efficient models, all the way to big, opulent, and extremely luxurious 3-row SUVs. In this article, we're going to rate Mercedes SUVs, starting from its best compact models.

Mercedes-Benz is perhaps the most prestigious German brand in the market, and a lot is expected of its vehicles and ownership experience. Being on the cutting edge of technological developments means the brand has to take some risks on occasion. The canceled brake-by-wire Bosch system from the early 2000s comes to mind. But that's part of the package for such a renowned brand. In the end, the fact remains that Mercedes' build quality is impressive and the status the brand carries remains strong.

All technical specifications and performance numbers in this article were provided by Mercedes-Benz. Fuel economy data was sourced from fueleconomy.gov. Mercedes-AMG models were not considered on this list.

RELATED: 2023 Mercedes-AMG G63 4x4 Squared: The Most Able Off-Roader You'll Probably Never See On The Dirt

A compact crossover SUV with a premium interior, and just the right amount of luxury and capability. The GLA 250 4MATIC SUV is Mercedes' compact solution for your everyday needs. The model is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that powers all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission. This drivetrain is quite lively, and as with most dual-clutch transmissions, up shifts are lightning-fast.

Engine

2.0-Liter inline-four turbo

Output

221 horsepower

Torque

258 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

6.6 seconds

Fuel economy

26 MPG combined

The GLA carries five people and has a cargo capacity of 50.5 cubic feet. Mercedes' 4MATIC system adapts to different road conditions and driving scenarios, adjusting the torque distribution. Inside the cockpit, you will also find a digital display with voice assistant which allows control of various functions. The GLA is versatile, delivering a healthy mix of quality engineering and luxury. Its overall length is 173.6 inches, and its width with mirrors is 79.5 inches. A great urban crawler that can also take the family on a weekend trip.

Moving up a step in the ladder, we find the GLB, which although still of a compact size, has the option of a third row of seats to carry up to seven passengers. Having the same basic power and drivetrain as the GLA 250 4MATIC, the GLB is still a quick compact SUV. Its cargo volume goes up to a maximum of 62.0 cubic feet.

Engine

2.0-Liter inline-four turbo

Output

221 horsepower

Torque

258 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

6.9 seconds

Fuel economy

26 MPG combined

Ride comfort is ensured by the independent suspension on all four wheels. The standard all-season tires are 235/55 R18. The GLB comes with roof rails, useful for carrying bikes, surfboards, skis, and cargo carriers. Made from Aluminum, they provided a touch of modern style to the SUV.

RELATED: The Real Difference Between Mercedes And Maybach

The GLC 4MATIC differs from the previous GLB and GLA, particularly for a couple of reasons. It doesn't employ the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, instead features the excellent 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic, and it features mild hybrid assistance. This mild hybrid system powers engine components that used to be belt-driven. Additionally, the system can generate an additional 148 pound-feet of torque for quicker responses from the accelerator, virtually eliminating any turbo-lag.

Engine

2.0-Liter inline-four turbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

255 horsepower

Torque

273 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

6.2 seconds

Fuel economy

24 MPG combined

The GLC and its 9G-TRONIC transmission are good for a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. The GLA and GLB's dual-clutch transmission isn't rated for towing. The torque-converter traditional automatic of the GLC is the one to choose if towing a small trailer is in order. The GLC sits nicely between sport and luxury, providing a C-Class level experience which was the standard for the brand not long ago.

A more recent trend in the SUV/crossover segment, the coupe silhouette, has become ever more present in premium SUVs. The GLC Coupe trades some cargo space and about an inch of headroom in the back seats for a stylish look.

Engine

2.0-Liter inline-four turbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

255 horsepower

Torque

273 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

6.2 seconds

Fuel economy

23 MPG combined

The engine, transmission, and suspensions are the same as seen in the GLC SUV. The same goes for a 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The interior can be equipped with the AMG line package, which also features AMG body styling, and 20-inch wheels (as opposed to 19-inch). This AMG Line Optional costs $2,700 and still offers:

Other optional packages include the AMG Line w/Night package, the multimedia package, and driver assistance package. The GLC coupe frame utilizes high-strength steel paired with other lightweight metals and polymers that provide safety, good sound insulation, and precise handling.

RELATED: Audi Q5 Vs. BMW X3 Vs. Mercedes-GLC. The Best German Compact Luxury Crossover Of 2023

The GLE 450e 4MATIC does away with the mild hybrid for a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The performance results are good for what it is, considering the internal combustion engine is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, which is paired with the nine-speed automatic transmission. But fuel economy data is yet to be released, although the all-electric driving range is 38 miles according to Mercedes.

Engine

2.0-Liter inline-four turbo plug-in hybrid

Output

381 horsepower combined

Torque

479 pound-feet combined

0-60 MPH

5.8 seconds

Fuel economy

TBA

A few standard luxury features of the GLE 450e 4MATIC are:

The towing capacity for this GLE is a good 7,700 pounds. The GLE 450e leans more on the heavy side, with a curb weight of 5,754 pounds, and it's impressive to see how fast it can move.

In Mercedes lingo, 'E' stands for Elegance, a trait that is evident in the GLE 450 4MATIC SUV. This mid-size SUV seats five people off the showroom floor, but can be fitted with an optional third row of seats, in which case it will sit up to seven people. Maximum cargo space is more generous, reaching 74.9 cubic feet.

Engine

3.0-Liter inline-six turbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

375 horsepower

Torque

369 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

5.3 seconds

Fuel economy

22 MPG combined

The GLE 450 4MATIC may not be as eco-friendly as the GLE 450e, but has the same price, better performance, and an exquisite inline-six engine aided by a mild hybrid system. It's arguably a more refined combination, worthy of an E Class. Plus, the curb weight of 5,060 is almost a full 700 pounds lighter than the PHEV variant and towing capacity is the same 7,700 pounds.

RELATED: Watch As Jay Leno Roars Down The Road In The Ludicrous Mercedes-AMG G63 4X4 Squared

Mercedes GLS 450 SUV is the embodiment of high luxury, extreme comfort, cutting-edge technology and safety. This full-size beauty is the S Class of SUVs and in that regard, it doesn't disappoint. Unlike some of the smaller three-row SUVs, the Mercedes-GLS seats up to seven passengers comfortably, and its spacious interior has up to 84.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Engine

3.0-Liter inline-six turbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

362 horsepower

Torque

369 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

5.9 seconds

Fuel economy

20 MPG combined

The GLS is the sensible choice for those in the market for a full-size luxury SUV. Its butter smooth inline-six engine with mild hybrid provides excellent performance and feel. Towing capacity is rated at 7,700 pounds, making the luxurious GLS a versatile and sophisticated SUV that meets the expectations and needs of discerning customers.

If a German V-8 is desired, the GLS 580 has you covered, and with the benefit of the added mild-hybrid system. The high-output biturbo engine is a masterpiece of Mercedes' engineering and craftsmanship. Built with patented NANOSLIDE low-friction cylinder walls, it features a high pressure direct injection system that together with its multispark ignition is able to self-tune itself in milliseconds.

Engine

4.0-Liter V-8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

483 horsepower

Torque

516 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

5.2 seconds

Fuel economy

18 MPG combined

Driver and front passenger can indulge in pneumatically adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with eight different massage programs. The climate control is adjustable in 5 different zones, and the doors have a soft-close feature. The exterior view is enhanced by a panorama roof. All of these features and more are standard.

RELATED: Audi Q7 vs BMW X7 vs Mercedes-GLS: Who Makes The Best German Three-Row Luxury SUV In 2023

The G class has the most capable off-roaders from Mercedes' SUV lineup. The G Wagen retains its timeless design, boasting a rugged, and yet, elegant appearance. Its old school body-on-frame architecture, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, 30/31-degree angle of approach and departure respectively, helps it tackle rough terrain with ease.

Engine

4.0-Liter V-8 biturbo

Output

416 horsepower

Torque

450 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

5.6 seconds

Fuel economy

14 MPG combined

The G Wagon is quite expensive, however, but it's a Mercedes that is built like a tank and has that look that simply doesn't get old. Well, older, at least. The interior is luxurious, featuring quality materials and tons of amenities to make those off-road incursions feel like just another Tuesday. But if the SUV is not going to be used off-road, and utmost comfort is the priority, then a GLS would be a better pick. Otherwise, the G Wagon earned its place near the top of this list.

The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC takes the luxury aspect of the GLS up a few notches and provides the utmost luxury in the SUV segment. Every detail of a Maybach is given special attention, always with comfort, refinement, noise insulation, and ride quality in mind. Standard air suspension and active body control make short work of uneven road surfaces.

Engine

4.0-Liter V-8 biturbo with mild hybrid drive

Output

550 horsepower

Torque

538 pound-feet

0-60 MPH

4.8 seconds

Fuel economy

17 MPG combined

The V-8 variant with mild hybrid system was developed exclusively for the Maybach. The full-size SUV seats 4 people as standard, providing first-class level of comfort for all passengers. The design features exclusive Maybach details that distinguishes it from the regular GLS, such as the Maybach front grille adorned with the brand's name right under the 3-pointed star on the hood. The Maybach is majestic as far as luxury, presence, and comfort go.

A car and motorcycle enthusiast, Bruno enjoys writing about and following up on what's happening in the industry. He's easy and friendly. Known to drop the bass on occasion.