The Toyota Land Cruiser is often compared to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class because they have histories with fun stories. Actually though, the Land Cruiser is much closer to the GLS. Full size, seating for more than five, and that classic SUV look. These are the characteristics that put these two vehicles into the same category, but they are not the same. From the extra seat in the Land Cruiser to the extra turbochargers in the GLS, each have certain advantages that might sway your decision to buy.
As noted, the GLS does have a seating capacity of eight persons compared to the 7 available seats in the GLS. The GLS, however, is eight inches longer than the Land Cruiser. This gives each seat more room to spread out and although it does make the GLS heavier, the biturbo V8 compensates for this.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550 SUV | VS | 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser |
4.7L biturbo V8 | Engine | 5.7L V8 |
449 | Horsepower | 381 |
516 lb-ft | Torque | 401 lb-ft |
14/18 | MPG | 13/18 |
Mercedes-Benz is one of the best auto manufacturers in the world for combustion engines. With the help of AMG®, Mercedes-Benz has perfected the art of turbocharging. With two turbochargers working in parallel with each other, the GLS 550 is capable of 449 horsepower and more than 500 lb-ft of torque. This gives the GLS more low-end power, making fast happen from any spot on the powerband and lessening stress on the engine when pulling a trailer. Simultaneously, the smaller displacement of the biturbo engine in the Mercedes-Benz gives it a fuel economy advantage. When you pair all of this with the 9-speed automatic transmission in the GLS that looks down on the 8-speed transmission in the Land Cruiser, you get the best SUV ever created. If you would like to learn more about why the GLS is the best car for you, come to Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead for a test drive!