2025 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was a testament to Chevrolet's knack for crafting visually appealing SUVs, with its exterior styling drawing praise across the lineup. Inside, the Traverse continued this trend with digital instrumentation and a Google-based infotainment system that offered an attractive layout. However, the interior materials left something to be desired, with hard, glossy plastics and Evotex artificial leather that failed to convincingly mimic genuine leather. This was particularly disappointing given the Traverse's price point, which ranged from $41,095 to $55,495. Our test vehicle, a Z71 trim, featured extras like Radiant Red paint and a panoramic sunroof, bringing its MSRP to $55,900.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded luxury and sophistication, with its lineup including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, priced between $91,600 and $181,350. Our GLS 450 test vehicle, equipped with the Manufaktur Edition Package, boasted 21-inch AMG wheels and exclusive interior upgrades like Natural Grain Grey Oak trim. The GLS's interior was reminiscent of the smaller GLE-Class but with superior materials and detailing. Despite some body creaks on cold mornings, the GLS offered a high-quality driving experience. The standard artificial leather could be upgraded to three different grades of leather, and the dual 12.3-inch displays provided a seamless integration with the dashboard.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's exhaust note was less than pleasing, it delivered ample power, especially in all-wheel-drive mode, where it provided rapid and controlled acceleration. The Z71 trim, designed for off-road adventures, featured a raised suspension, unique wheels, and a Twin Clutch AWD system. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Z71's tires and suspension also enhanced the daily driving experience, offering a smoother ride on rough roads. The Traverse Z71 achieved an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, with our test vehicle slightly exceeding this at 21.5 mpg.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine and mild-hybrid assist, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, the GLS 450 accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. While more powerful GLS versions were available, the 450 offered a balance of performance and fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. The GLS featured multiple driving modes and a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension, enhancing its ride and handling. Despite occasional delays in responsiveness, the GLS's powertrain provided a satisfying driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse offered generous interior space, with seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats were comfortable, with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated features. The second-row captain's chairs provided good support, though the lack of side window shades was a drawback. The third-row seats were comfortable but lacked a view due to the rear window design. The Traverse offered 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. However, folding the third row required adjusting the second-row seats, which was inconvenient.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger option featuring second-row captain's chairs. The GLS excelled in comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system and heated and ventilated seats. The Manufaktur Edition Package added fabric pillows to the front-seat head restraints, though they were not well-received. The third-row seats offered good thigh support, though legroom was snug. The GLS's storage options were limited, but the glove compartment was spacious. Cargo space measured 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store access. It also included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, though it lacked a tuning knob. An 11-inch digital instrumentation panel offered customizable views, and optional features included a digital rearview mirror and a surround-view camera system.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS, while not equipped with the latest Superscreen or Hyperscreen technologies, featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a Burmester surround-sound system. The MBUX system was easy to use, with a digital assistant that responded to voice commands. Optional features included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens.

The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The Driver Confidence Package added a surround-view camera system and traffic sign recognition, while the Enhanced Driving Package included Super Cruise, a hands-free driving assist system. The Traverse received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, including Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist. While it lacked hands-free highway driver-assistance technology, it offered a hands-on system with a touch-sensing steering wheel. The GLS required active driver participation, but it provided a smooth and refined driving experience. The GLS's braking system occasionally braked harder than necessary, but it was easy to override.