5 min read

Exploring the Best Mercedes SUV Models: Expert Choice

John avatar by John C. Baldwin
5 min read
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Want to look good while braving the weather on the trail? Is a compact luxury convertible too cramped for you and your family? Used cars like the Mercedes-Benz SUVs offer all the power and durability you need without breaking the budget. The variety of SUVs available from this manufacturer is mind-boggling. There is a broad variety of sizes, personalization choices, and luxury and powertrain options to choose from.

Additionally, it's completely normal to have questions regarding which Mercedes-Benz SUVs are the best when you're in the market for one. Each Mercedes-Benz model has its own unique driving experience, yet they all share the brand's legendary performance and luxurious interior. If you're looking for an SUV, go no further than our list of the top Mercedes-Benz SUVs of all time.

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Price: $37,280 to $55,550

Seating capacity: Five

Trim Levels: GLA 250 SUV, GLA 250 4MATIC® SUV, AMG® GLA 35 SUV, AMG® GLA 45 SUV

Cargo space: 15.4 cubic feet behind the backseat

Towing capacity: Not rated for towing

In the United States, Mercedes's smallest SUV is the subcompact GLA, which was introduced on a completely new platform for the 2021 model year. The much-improved entry-level SUV is somewhat larger, has modernized infotainment and safety features, and sports a new, more SUV-like profile than the hatchback styling of the previous version. However, we do think it lacks some individuality in comparison to the competition. The all-wheel-drive system, advanced safety features, and convenient features of this premium vehicle are what make it stand out.

The 4MATIC® all-wheel drive system is smart enough to recognize slippery road conditions and provide more power to the wheels that need it most. Radar aids in spotting potential dangers and automatically applies the brakes if the automobile in front of you abruptly stops. The option of a hands-free trunk opening further elevates this Mercedes-Benz SUV to the ranks of the best in its class. The large trunk and cargo compartment are accessible with a light "kick" beneath the bumper.

Similar to the CLA-Class car, the GLA-Class offers a range of powerful engines. The GLA250 has a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard engine may be had with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. With front-wheel drive, the vehicle achieves a class-leading fuel efficiency of 24/34 mpg. The 6.8-second 0-60 mph pace that Mercedes-Benz boasts is perhaps an understatement. Ensure that you check the VIN number to know more about the car’s history before you buy.

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Starting Price: $38,050 MSRP*

Trim Levels: GLB 250 SUV, GLB 250 4MATIC® SUV, AMG® GLB 35 SUV

Price:  $39,100 to $51,600

Seating capacity: Five to seven

Cargo space: 24.0-27.0 cubic feet behind the backseat; 5.1 cubic feet behind the optional third row

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 23-26

Towing capacity: Not rated for towing

The GLB was introduced for the 2020 model year as a brand-new model that bridges the gap in terms of price and size between the GLA and the GLC SUVs. The GLB has a more classic upright design than its five-seat rivals and a less dynamic driving experience. In addition, it stands out from other new cars for sale with an available two-seat third row, making it, unlike any other small SUV on the market.

Furthermore, the GLB250 is driven by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 221 horsepower, while the AMG GLB35 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 302 horsepower. We've discovered that there's a lot to enjoy about it, but other than the third row, there's nothing that stands out as particularly remarkable in a premium market that's saturated with nice small SUVs. If you’re considering purchasing this vehicle, our Mercedes Benz VIN Decoder can provide you with more insights into the car.

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Starting Price: $43,200 MSRP*

Trim Levels: GLC 300 SUV, GLC 300 4MATIC® SUV, GLC 350e 4MATIC® SUV, AMG® GLC 43 SUV, AMG® GLC 63 SUV

Seating capacity: Five

Cargo space: 19.4 cubic feet behind the backseat

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 17-25

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds

The GLC may be the ideal Mercedes-Benz SUV for you if you want something smaller. With the GLC, Mercedes-Benz blends the agile handling of the GLA with more power. In fact, in its most basic form, this SUV can tow up to 3,500 pounds, giving you a whole new range of mobility options. This smaller SUV is built with comfort and luxury in mind, with features like heated seats, rear-door sunshades, a panoramic roof, and maybe even an ionizer to purify the air and infuse it with a pleasant scent.

With the help of modern technology, driving chores like cruising, switching lanes, and parking are a breeze. This model's off-road prowess is not compromised in any way because of its small weight, quick acceleration, or low fuel consumption.

Furthermore, this design may be had as either a gas-powered or hybrid plug-in version. The GLC-Class SUV's engine options are also available for the GLC Coupe range. As with the GLC SUV, global supply chain difficulties prevent the inclusion of a V-8 engine in the Coupe. All 2022 GLC Coupes include an AWD system with a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Seating capacity: $54,750 MSRP*

Trim Levels: GLE 350 SUV, GLE 350 4MATIC® SUV, GLE 450 4MATIC® SUV, GLE 580 4MATIC® SUV, AMG® GLE 53 4MATIC®+ SUV, AMG® GLE 63 S 4MATIC®+ SUV

Number of seats: Five to seven

Cargo space: 33.3 cubic feet behind the backseat, 27.5 cubic feet for the coupe

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 16-23

Towing capacity: 5,950-7,700 pounds

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the largest and most powerful model in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. The Mercedes GLE, a crossover variant of the company's popular E-Class sedan, has quickly become the brand's most popular SUV. So far in 2021, it has outsold the cheaper GLC to become the automaker's best-selling model in the United States.

As of the 2020 model year, the GLE comes in so many different trim levels and with so many different available features that it is almost its car brand. Some variants provide a choice of two or three rows of seating. This model can give substantial power on the roads of Monroe, with a towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds and up to 577 horsepower, without compromising any of the comfort features you've come to expect.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Starting Price: $76,000 MSRP*

Trim Levels: GLS 450 SUV, GLS 580 SUV, AMG® GLS 63 SUV

Seating capacity: Four or five in GLS600, six or seven in the rest

Cargo space: 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row; 17.4-18.4 cubic feet behind the third row

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 16-21

Towing capacity: 7,700 pounds

The S-Class has set the standard for large, finely constructed luxury cars for many years. The GLS SUV, the sedan's luxurious alternative, has been picking up a lot of new customers in recent years.  New for 2020, the GLS is similarly polished and packed to the gills with Mercedes' cutting-edge powertrain and chassis tech, including the company's innovative MBUX multimedia system and a pair of 12.3-inch dashboard displays.

When compared to a sedan, the GLS is more spacious and convenient. Except for the Maybach GLS600, which is the pinnacle of exclusivity, sophisticated luxury touches, and price, most GLS models include three rows of seats for up to seven passengers. There are just four or five first-class seats available, but passengers may enjoy amenities like massage, a bar, and champagne glasses in the back.

All GLS models come standard with an electrically adjustable suspension and may be equipped with additional driving aids, such as a system that reduces the impact of corners by allowing the vehicle to "bank" like a motorbike. In the United States, the GLS450 is the entry-level option, and it comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that generates 362 horsepower.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Starting Price: $130,900 MSRP*

Trim Levels: G 550 SUV, AMG® G 63 SUV

Seating capacity: Five

Cargo space: 38.1 cubic feet behind the backseat

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 14-18

Towing capacity: 7,000 pounds

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class stands out from the rest of the SUV collection at Mercedes-Benz thanks to its unique design and impressive capabilities off-road. Because of its legendary strength on and off-road, this Mercedes-Benz SUV is among the most recognizable SUVs in the world. Although SUVs have been increasingly popular in recent years, the G-Wagen has been around since the 1970s, and the brand-new 2019 model has kept the same boxy, off-road capable design as previous generations.

The newest G is larger in length and width, with an improved cabin and cutting-edge technology. The G no longer drives and feels like a high-end Jeep Wrangler, so customers don't have to make as many concessions to get into one. It's been lengthened, softened, muted, and slickened up to compete with vehicles like the Land Rover Range Rover, and it's even more capable off-road today. There are still considerations that need to be given. The blocky design makes the vehicle less stable on the sides, does nothing for the poor gas mileage, and leaves the cramped backseat unchanged.

In addition, the G uses outdated multimedia technology rather than the modern MBUX system. And not everybody likes the conventional rear-mounted spare tire and rear door that opens to the side. If the G550's unique styling and 416-hp, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 aren't enough for you and money is no problem, the more powerful AMG G63 with a 577-hp V-8 is your best bet.

Mercedes-Benz EQB-Class

Mercedes-Benz EQB-Class

Starting Price: $52400 MSRP*

Trim Levels: EQB 250+

Seating capacity: Five

Cargo space: 22.0 cubic feet when the back seats are up. Flipping them down opens up 62.0 cubes.

EPA-estimated combined mpg: 128-116

Towing Capacity: N/A

The EQB is one of many new electric vehicles that Mercedes is releasing under the EQ brand. The 2023 model year of this compact crossover was supposed to debut in the United States in 2022. There are many similarities between the new EQB and the Mercedes-Benz GLB. The EQB takes the basic framework of the GLB and modifies it so that it may be used on an electric vehicle.

The EQB also offers optional seating for a third row of passengers, much like the GLB does, and it has a wheelbase measuring 111 inches. Inside, the EQB is almost identical to its gas-powered twin. But it has a futuristic look and feel to its front and back design. The entry-level EQB300 utilizes a dual-motor configuration and is equipped with standard all-wheel drive. The total output is 225 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque. The EQB350 is the most potent model in the lineup, boasting motors that produce 288 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque.

Mercedes-Benz ML 400

Mercedes-Benz ML 400

Starting price: $63,825

Trim levels: ML250 Bluetec, ML350, ML400 and ML 63 AMG

Seating capacity: Five

Cargo capacity: 38.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats

Towing capacity: N/A

The M-Class has far more sway due to its spacious, comfortable cabin and the impression of impregnable build quality. Mercedes offers a plethora of engine configurations to suit your needs. When compared to competing crossovers from American and Japanese manufacturers, this Mercedes-Benz outperforms both in terms of fuel efficiency and performance.

The best-selling ML350 with its gas V6 remains, but Mercedes-Benz also released two new M-Class vehicles with brand-new powertrains. The six-cylinder ML350 Bluetec diesel has been replaced by the more fuel-efficient four-cylinder ML250 Bluetec, while the turbocharged six-cylinder ML400 has replaced the V8-powered ML550.

The smaller model numbers could cause concern for individuals who find pride in outnumbering their neighbors. Still, both cars should provide substantial fuel efficiency improvements over their forerunners with little discernible sacrifice in performance. And if high numbers are what you're after, you can still get your hands on the crazy ML 63 AMG, which can produce up to 550 horsepower.

The expense to maintain a Mercedes-Benz is high when compared to other manufacturers. It was found that its maintenance expenses were second highest only to those of BMWs. According to data reported, Mercedes owners spend an annual average of $908.

When they are cared for correctly, Mercedes-Benz automobiles have an average dependability rating and may remain on the road for 15 to 17 years.

After three years, Mercedes's initial purchase price is likely to be recouped by its owner at a rate of 67.62 percent. It was found that the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has the worst resale value retention after three years.

Mercedes, on the other hand, often lasts for 250,000 to 300,000 kilometers or more. When an engine appears to be on its last legs, a complete rebuild is a viable option.

When you hear the term "Maybach," the first thing that probably comes to mind is a massive and extremely plush Mercedes S-Class vehicle. However, you may not be aware that Mercedes' biggest SUV, the GLS, has been upgraded to the Maybach standard since the year 2021.

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