2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, now with a more robust and industrial look. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases that seamlessly integrated with the flared wheel arches, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance suitable for off-road adventures. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner included design elements like the slanted rearmost window from the first generation, while the sliding rear window facilitated easier cargo access. Inside, the 4Runner mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling throughout the cabin. The interior was functional yet comfortable, with hard plastics for durability and light cushioning for comfort. The materials were superior to those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but not as refined as those in a Land Rover Defender.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of models, including the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices from $91,600 to $181,350. The GLS 450, tested with the new Manufaktur Edition Package, featured 21-inch AMG wheels, exclusive paint colors, and premium leather upholstery. The interior, similar to the smaller GLE-Class, boasted high-quality materials, though body creaks were noted on cold mornings. The GLS 450 came with standard artificial leather upholstery, with options for higher-grade leather and various interior trims. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, and the control layout, though idiosyncratic, was easy to adapt to. The GLS provided a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The base model featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation's V6. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, based on the same four-cylinder engine, delivered 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, offering stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling was more composed on pavement, with reduced nosedive and body roll. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added wind noise.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLS 450 offered acceptable fuel economy, rated at 21 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed 19.4 mpg. The Dynamic Select system provided multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLS had a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and featured an Airmatic adaptive suspension for improved ride quality. While the powertrain occasionally exhibited delays in responsiveness, the turbo-six engine delivered a satisfying sound under hard acceleration. The GLS offered a tailored driving experience, with a quiet cabin and composed ride, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase. While this typically results in more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating, with adequate legroom and headroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped, with limited thigh support. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and grouped off-road controls for easy operation. Storage options included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in hybrid models due to the battery placement. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration featuring second-row captain’s chairs as an option. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with standard four-zone climate control and heated and ventilated front seats. Comfort upgrades included massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, and an executive-style rear seat package. The six-passenger configuration included power-operated second-row captain’s chairs with a pass-through to the third row. Storage was limited, with a small center armrest bin and shallow door pockets. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 84.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. While cargo space was less than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade, the GLS provided a refined and comfortable interior experience.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen on supporting trims, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens offered logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were available. Hybrid models included a digital instrument panel. Off-road models featured external camera views for precise tire placement, with automatic activation when crawling. A 14-speaker JBL audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were possible through a smartphone app, and a digital key function was offered.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a retro yet luxurious feel. The MBUX infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a one-year subscription to Digital Extras. A standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos was included, with an optional high-end Burmester 3D audio system. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant for voice commands. While the assistant occasionally struggled with specific requests, it generally performed well.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the Tacoma pickup on which it was based was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The 4Runner came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS included nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, such as Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. It featured Car-to-X Communication for future road hazard warnings. Parking was aided by sensors and a surround-view camera system. While rear-seat side-impact airbags were optional, the GLS lacked hands-free highway driver-assistance technology. The system required active driver participation, with some limitations on curvy roads. Despite occasional braking issues, the GLS offered a smooth and refined driving experience.