Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Jaguar E-Pace
What's the difference?

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

$170,169 - $424,900

2026 price

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Jaguar E-Pace

$23,999 - $40,888

2020 price

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Summary

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

2020 Jaguar E-Pace

By Mark Oastler

By James Cleary

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Turbo 6, 2.9L

Diesel Turbo 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Diesel

Fuel Efficiency

7.8L/100km (combined)

6.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Big GVM/GCM ratings
Active air suspension
Performance/economy

Value
Practicality
Safety

Dislikes

No ANCAP rating
High purchase price
Intrusive voice activation

Relative thirst
So-so warranty
Steering’s modest road feel

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Summary

The ‘Upper Large SUV over $120K’ segment of the Aussie new-car market is what you might call the top end of town, not only in terms of the extravagant models available but also their purchase prices, which stretch well into six figures and require monthly lease payments that rival home mortgages.

It’s where you’ll find some of the most prestigious marques in the automotive world including Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Range Rover, Lexus and BMW. And, of course, Mercedes-Benz with its big GLS which represents the flagship of the German manufacturer’s SUV fleet.

It was given a refresh in 2023 with cosmetic and multimedia upgrades along with powertrain enhancements, but there have only been minor changes since then. We were recently entrusted with the keys to the latest GLS to see if the ‘S-Class of SUVs’ leaves any room for improvement.

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2020 Jaguar E-Pace Summary

Jaguar raised more than a few eyebrows in 2016 when it entered the rapidly expanding world of premium SUVs with the mid-size F-Pace. And the product development boffins at Coventry HQ liked it so much they cooked up another one.

The compact E-Pace (and subsequent electric I-Pace) has re-positioned the brand from luxury sedans, wagons, and performance sports cars, to all that with SUVs now leading the brand and product charge.

The F-Pace is a beautifully composed five-seater. Does this smaller E-Pace package deliver even more good things?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class 2020 Jaguar E-Pace

Verdict

The GLS450d impresses as an entry-level grade, as it’s a more family-friendly allrounder than the specialised AMG and Maybach variants. Its combination of a torque-rich diesel 48V hybrid drivetrain, air-cushioned suspension and plush interior are as well suited to luxury urban travel as they are to grand touring, where its heavy towing and generous load-carrying capabilities can shine. Whether it’s worth around $200K drive-away, only those who shop at the top end of town can decide.

Verdict

The Jaguar E-Pace Chequered Flag P250 is a compact, polished premium SUV package. Good value, super safe and spacious, it combines brilliant practicality with comfort and healthy performance. It’s a little thirsty, there are some relatively minor dynamic niggles, and Jaguar’s ownership package needs to lift its game. But for those who don’t have a lot of room to spare, yet don’t want to skimp on the luxury experience, it’s a compelling option in a highly competitive category.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Jaguar E-Pace What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs Jaguar E-Pace
What's the difference?