The GLS-Class officially makes its debut for 2017, though it's really a slightly revised version of the outgoing GL-Class. Highlights include modified exterior styling, a newly standard nine-speed automatic transmission (except on the AMG GLS 63) and a touchpad-operated infotainment system with a larger screen and available Apple CarPlay. Also, all engines except the GLS450's turbocharged V6 get a bit more horsepower this year.
Pros Third row is large enough for adults Spirited acceleration with any of the three gasoline engines Impressive fuel economy with the diesel engine Quiet cabin with high-end trimmings and features.
Cons Diesel-powered model feels relatively slow when passing and merging Big price jump from the six-cylinder models to the V8-powered versions.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets the first-class upgrade along with its name change—and a Maybach edition is waiting in the wings. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class marks a significant, mid-cycle upgrade for what was previously knew as the GL-Class. As part of a nomenclature change sweeping the entire brand, each of the German luxury maker's sport-utility vehicles has received new badging and a full or partial makeover to bring the lineup into more obvious parallels with its sedans—so this large, three-row SUV becomes the GLS, to align it with the largest S-Class sedan. Hence the S in its new name.
Pros Spacious, flexible interior Rugged-lux, with some added panache Great set of safety, infotainment features
Cons Not an entirely new vehicle Some switchgear looks dated Cumbersome COMAND interface
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ranks 1 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS hits most of the right notes for a large SUV. It boasts a supple ride, three powerful engine choices, three rows of roomy seats, and the same level of luxury that has come to be synonymous with the brand. However, the GLS has fewer standard features than many rivals do, and its available V8 engines are less fuel-efficient than those offered by many competitors.
Pros Powerful engine lineup Smooth ride Three rows of spacious seats
Cons Fewer features than some rivals V8 engines get subpar fuel economy
The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace ranks 2 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. Very few rivals can match the brand-new Jaguar F-Pace when it comes to space, dynamic driving performance, and the prestige that comes with a Jaguar badge. Although Jaguar doesn't like to call it an SUV – they call it a practical sports car and performance crossover – the F-Pace is the first SUV for the luxury brand. The British carmaker says the F-Pace was built to be functional enough as a daily driver, but fun to drive on the weekend. It is spectacularly successful in both arenas. The F-Pace also has one of the largest cargo holds in the class. Additionally, its Land Rover parentage (Jaguar and Land Rover are owned by the same company and share some components) helps its off-road cred, making the F-Pace surprisingly practical for a little trail-riding. Overall, the F-Pace is an excellent SUV.
Pros Sports-car-like performance Excellent traction on slippery or gravel roads Spacious interior and cargo room
Cons Subpar acceleration with diesel engine
The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace does an excellent job of putting just as much emphasis on sport as on utility. Jaguar Land Rover is in the business of building excellent SUVs, but until now, those SUVs were the exclusive province of Land Rover. Even with Range Rovers and Discoverys sitting across the showroom, there's plenty of room for more vehicles in the broad spectrum that grabs everything from the Buick Encore to the Benz G-Class. And if a sort of automotive purity test is invoked, well, Porsche's proven that no brand can really thrive in the U.S. without some kind of crossover SUV in its lineup. This is all a convoluted way of explaining how we got to the first Jaguar crossover SUV in history, and as luck would have it, one of the most satisfying luxury utility vehicles of all.
Pros The SUV Jaguar's always wanted Sleek aluminum body Wide-screen InControl Touch Pro Turbodiesel or supercharged six Nimble, skillful handling
Cons Firm ride degrades on 22s Rearview camera a $400 option on base model Cockpit can be a subdued, dark affair
If you're looking for a luxury SUV that stands out in a crowd, the striking new 2017 Jaguar F-Pace is hard to ignore. It's more than just a pretty face as it's also great to drive, surprisingly practical, competitively priced and can even venture off road. It's a new SUV you don't want to overlook.
pros Spacious backseat and cargo area for the segment Sharper and more engaging to drive than most Supercharged V6 power at a four-cylinder price Fuel-efficient diesel engine option Higher-than-usual ground clearance and surprising off-road capability.
cons Gasoline engine is considerably less efficient than similarly priced rivals You might find the ride too firm over broken pavement V6's boisterous exhaust may get tiresome in day-to-day driving.
