Comparison - Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class 2017 - vs - Ford Explorer Sport 2017

General

Other Names:

Also called:

GL-Class

Also called:

--

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Class: GLS550 4Matic Full REVIEW, Start Up, Exhaust
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 - Test Drive & Review
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 350 FIRST DRIVE REVIEW ON & OFF ROAD
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC -test drive and detail Review
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Official Overview - Everything You Ever Wanted to Know
The Mercedes GLS Saga Is Finally Over
2020 Mercedes GLS Review // Family approved
2020 Mercedes Benz GLS580 Test Drive Video Review
2017 Ford Explorer UNBOXING Review - Why Even Bother With A BMW X5?
2017 Ford Escape Review by THE BEST SELLING CROSSOVER
2016 / 2017 Ford Explorer Review and Road Test
2017 Ford Explorer: Review
Ford Explorer Hybrid Review // This or Highlander Hybrid
2019 Ford Explorer Limited Test Drive Video Review
2017 Ford Explorer: Review
2016 Ford Explorer Test Drive review by CarNichiWa.com
Average Price: 
74,929
Updated: 
01 Dec 2016
45,355
Updated: 
30 Nov 2016
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Year: 
2016
2017
Total Seating: 
7
7
Transmission: 
9-speed Shiftable Automatic
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
yes
no
Navigation: 
no
yes
Doors: 
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
26.40gals
18.60gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Black
#000000
Dakota Brown Metallic
#403524
Diamond Silver Metallic
#C5CDD2
Iridium Silver Metallic
#ADB1B2
Lunar Blue Metallic
#18294B
Obsidian Black Metallic
#211810
Palladium Silver Metallic
#888785
Polar White
#E1E0DE
Steel Grey Metallic
#6A7575
designo Cardinal Red Metallic
#A02C32
designo Diamond White Metallic
#EDE4D7
Color: 
Blue Jeans Metallic
#486478
Ingot Silver Metallic
#C4C4C8
Oxford White
#E4E4E4
Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
#8E1C26
Shadow Black
#242424

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

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.

By: 
edmunds.com

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

By: 
thecarconnection.com

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

By: 
usnews.com

Available with plenty of features and three distinctly different engines, the 2017 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer if you're shopping for a three-row crossover SUV. Its outstanding quietness and quality cabin trimmings elevate this practical do-all crossover to the front of the segment.

A household name among American carbuyers, the Ford Explorer has evolved from its long-ago roots as a body-on-frame SUV into the comprehensively modern three-row crossover it is today. Depending on trim level and options (and how deep your pockets are), it can be downright luxurious. Our preference for the Sport arises from the "drives big" nature of other non-Sport trim levels — though comfortable, the soft suspension and numb steering of non-Sport models make their driving experience oddly ponderous.

Aside from that, though, there is an awful lot to credit to the Explorer. You can configure an Explorer that keeps things relatively basic, or you can go all-in on luxury. Versatility is a strong suit, too. You have your choice of three engines. You can get it with a second-row bench or captain's chairs and option the second and/or third row with power-folding functionality. Lots of cargo space is standard.

Pros
Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use
Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power
Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway
Cargo space is generous behind the third row

Cons
Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Legroom in the second and third rows is subpar

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer adds a sport appearance package and Sync 3, both of which are important to today's SUV buyers.

The 2017 Ford Explorer gets a sport appearance package on lower trims, which is what Explorer buyers are looking for nowadays.

The Ford Explorer's wide offering of powertrains is an asset, we like every step along the way.

The Explorer has a good mix of comfortable seating, versatility, and space for families.

The Explorer scores well on federal tests, but IIHS tests are a different story.

A Sport Appearance Package is here now for buyers who want their 2017 Ford Explorers to look the part.

The 2017 Ford Explorer returns decent economy for a three-row hauler—mostly.

Pros
A nicely executed do-it-all
Excellent ride and handling for an SUV
Fuel-efficient—on paper
Sync 3 is better ...
Sport appearance package is much appreciated

Cons
but Sync 3 still has issues
Real-world mileage question
Platinum prices are in line with luxury vehicles

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer will feature a new XLT Sport Appearance package, as well as interior enhancements. A hands-free liftgate will be standard on Sport models, while Sync 3 will be offered on the XLT and come standard on the Limited, Sport, and Platinum models.

The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV offers three-row seating, can hold up to seven passengers, and is offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

The 2017 Ford Explorer comes standard with LED low-beam headlights on every trim.

The Ford Explorer was refreshed for 2016, sporting a new look and upgrades to the engine and feature content. The 2017 Explorer doesn’t change much, but adds a new sport package to the XLT trim, as well as additional safety features.

Pros
New XLT Sport Appearance package
Well-appointed Platinum trim

Cons
Cramped third-row seating
Slow acceleration on lower trim models

By: 
motortrend.com

With the exception of a new Sport Appearance package for the XLT trim, the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV carries over unchanged.

When it comes to horsepower, Ford’s 7-passenger Explorer SUV for 2017 delivers at every level. From the standard 290-horsepower V6 to the fuel-efficient 280-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder available in the base,...

XLT and Limited trims, Ford places choice front and center. Need more “oomph”? Try out the Sport and Platinum trim’s 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6. Capable for sure, the Explorer delivers excellent passing and pulling power and its heavily weighted steering and taut suspension give this big SUV impressive cornering ability, although its high beltline and massive front bumper make maneuvers in tight quarters a bit harrowing. Ford has done an excellent job keeping road, engine and wind noise out of the cabin, and all but the rearmost occupants felt the seating was both comfortable and supportive. The Explorer’s adaptive cruise control works well, but we wish it offered fully autonomous braking like the Honda Pilot, not just collision warning.

Pros
If you’re looking for a family SUV with advanced electronics and safety features, plus a wide range of engines and option choices, Ford’s midsize SUV for 2017 is hard to beat. The Explorer’s advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system makes it more off-road capable than a Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9.

Cons
If you’re looking for something that’s easy to maneuver and park, and you don’t need a 3rd-row seat, a smaller SUV like the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano or Jeep Grand Cherokee makes a better choice. The Jeep also bests the Explorer both off-road and in towing (7,800 pounds vs. 5,000).

By: 
kbb.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Diesel
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
16.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
22.00mpg
Engine type: 
Diesel
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
24
24
Cylinders: 
6
V
6
V
Engine Size/Displacement: 
3.00L
3.50L
Torque: 
455ft-lbs
at 1 600rpm
350ft-lbs
at 3 500rpm
Horsepower: 
255hp
at 3 600rpm
365hp
at 5 500rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
40.70Feet
40.00Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
yes
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
yes
yes
Seatback Storage: 
yes
yes
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
yes
yes
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
no
yes
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
More in Convenience: 
Destination guidance (also Turn-by-Turn Navigation)*
Roadside Assistance*
Destination Download*
Concierge Service*
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
Manual rear seat easy entry
Destination Download*
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
Destination guidance (also Turn-by-Turn Navigation)*
Adjustable pedals

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
201.60in
198.30in
Width: 
84.30in
78.90in
Height: 
72.80in
71.00in
Ground Clearance: 
8.50in
7.80in
Wheel Base: 
121.10in
112.80in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
41.20
41.40
Rear Head Room: 
40.00
40.60
Front Leg Room: 
40.30in
42.90in
Rear leg room: 
38.50in
39.50in
Front Hip Room: 
57.30in
Front Shoulder Room: 
58.50in
61.50in
Rear Hip Room: 
56.80in
Rear Shoulder room: 
58.30in
61.00in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
93.80cu.ft
81.70cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
7500lbs
5000lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
21.00cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
15.60degrees
Angle of Departure: 
20.90degrees
Curb Weight: 
4901.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
yes
yes

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
4 one-touch power windows
Heated mirrors
Remote keyless power door locks
Reverse tilt passenger only provides curb view when vehicle in reverse
2 one-touch power windows
Heated mirrors

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
10 -way power driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Leatherette
8 -way power passenger seat
Height adjustable driver seat
8 -way power driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8 -way power passenger seat
Height adjustable driver seat
Leather
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Rear Seats Features: 
Power folding split-bench third row seats
Reclining rear seats
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts
Split-folding rear seatback
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts with fan control
Power folding split-bench third row seats
Split-folding rear seatback

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front stabilizer bar
Front stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension: 
Rear stabilizer bar
Rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Four-wheel independent suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
yes
More Comfort Features: 
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
Leather steering wheel
Sun sensor
Turn signal in mirrors
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Leather steering wheel
Turn signal in mirrors
Heated steering wheel
Front and rear air conditioning

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
no
yes
Video monitor: 
no
yes
More Entertainment: 
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
USB connection
Memory card slot
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
Memory card slot
Surround audio surround audio (discrete)
Sony premium brand speakers
390 watts stero output
1 subwoofer(s)
12 total speakers
6 Months of provided satellite radio service
Sony premium brand stero system

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
yes
no
Rear defogger: 
yes
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Variable intermittent rain sensing wipers
Remote sunroof operation
Privacy glass
Power glass sunroof
Roof rack
Privacy glass
Rear window wiper
Variable intermittent wipers
Roof rack
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
19 x 8.5
20 in
Wheels more: 
Inside mounted spare tire
Temporary spare tire
Null spare wheel
All season tires
Underbody mounted spare tire
All season tires
Null spare wheel
Temporary spare tire
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
275.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
55
Diameter: 
R19
Width: 
255.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Diameter: 
R20

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Front ventilated disc brakes
Front ventilated disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
rear ventilated disc brakes
rear ventilated disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
yes
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
yes
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
yes
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Stolen Vehicle Tracking/Assistance*
Airbag Deployment Notification*
PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist
Rear height adjustable headrests
Rear center 3-point belt
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Post-collision safety system
Brake drying
Pre-collision safety system
Emergency braking assist
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Turn signal mirrors
Rear Side Air Bags (SPC)
Emergency Service*
Vehicle Alarm notification*
Post-collision safety system
Airbag Deployment Notification*
BLIS Plus Inflatable Rear Seatbelt Package
Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning w/Brake Support
Rear height adjustable headrests
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Dual front with head protection chambers side-mounted airbags

Options

Packages: 
Equipment Group 401A
Equipment Group 400A
Exterior Options: 
Roof Rack Crossbars
Running Boards
P265/45ZR20 Summer Only Tires
Splash Guards
Dual Panel Moonroof
License Plate Bracket
Rear Bumper Protector
Wheel Lock Kit
Interior Options: 
2nd Row Bucket Seats w/Power-Assist Fold
Cargo Shade
Smokers Kit w/Element
Deep Tray-Style All-Weather Floor Mats
Rear Cargo Well Protector
DVD Headrests
2nd Row Console

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Black, leather
#131313
Black, leatherette
#131313
Crystal Grey/Black, leather
#A3A1A0
Espresso Brown, leatherette
#483F3D
Ginger Beige/Black, leather
#9E8B7C
Ginger Beige/Black, leatherette
#B6A598
Ginger Beige/Espresso Brown, leather
#BBA899
Ginger Beige/Espresso Brown, leatherette
#9E8B7C
Saddle Brown/Black, leather
#936555
designo Espresso Brown Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#534A48
designo Porcelain/Black Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#C4BDB9
Color: 
Medium Light Camel, cloth
#9A9789