The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS and the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee cater to different audiences in the SUV market. One prioritizes premium comfort, advanced tech, and refined performance. The other focuses on versatility, off-road capability, and utility-driven design.
While both offer strong build quality and spacious interiors, the driving experience, cabin materials, and technology execution tell very different stories. Here’s how the two compare across the areas that matter most to SUV buyers.
Design & Style
The GLS takes a sleek and sculpted approach with a refined grille, chrome accents, and LED lighting that outlines its wide stance. Its proportions give it a bold presence without looking bulky. Inside, the cabin feels modern and upscale, with leather upholstery, open-pore wood, and brushed metal touches. Every surface feels polished and deliberate.
The Grand Cherokee keeps a rugged, athletic profile with a high beltline, flared wheel arches, and upright styling. It delivers a strong off-road-ready look, but the cabin doesn’t reach the same level of luxury. While higher trims bring leather and nicer materials, the overall layout leans toward function over form. The GLS delivers a more elegant design across the board.
Technology & Safety
Inside the GLS, twin 12.3-inch digital displays support the MBUX infotainment system. It offers voice control, biometric access, navigation with augmented reality, and customizable user profiles. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera.
The Grand Cherokee uses a Uconnect system with touchscreen options ranging from 8.4 to 10.1 inches. It supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital gauge cluster, but the interface feels less intuitive. Jeep includes a solid range of safety tech, but some advanced features stay locked behind upper trim levels. The GLS delivers a more complete and user-friendly experience across all configurations.
Performance
The GLS 450 uses a turbocharged inline-six engine paired with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. It produces smooth, quick acceleration and consistent torque throughout the rev range. The 4MATIC® all-wheel-drive system keeps traction secure in changing road conditions, and adaptive air suspension smooths out uneven surfaces.
The Grand Cherokee offers multiple engine options, including a V6 and a plug-in hybrid, but its powertrains feel less refined. Steering and handling feel firmer and less fluid, and the ride quality changes depending on trim and tire setup. While the Grand Cherokee performs well on trails and gravel roads, it lacks the GLS’s balance and ride comfort on paved surfaces.
The Bottom Line
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee serves buyers who value durability, towing ability, and occasional off-road adventures. It offers strong utility with solid build quality, but its luxury features come with trade-offs in refinement and smoothness.
The 2025 GLS delivers upscale comfort, advanced features, and strong on-road dynamics in a way that feels effortless. Both vehicles provide space and capability, but one delivers a premium driving experience from every angle—especially for those who spend more time on highways than trails.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
See how this luxury SUV delivers top-tier comfort, performance, and technology. Schedule a test drive at Mercedes-Benz of Smithtown to explore the 2025 GLS in person.
