Porsche Macan vs Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
What's the difference?

Porsche Macan

$89,990 - $166,950

2024 price

View pricing & specs

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

$170,169 - $424,900

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

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Summary

2024 Porsche Macan

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

By Andrew Chesterton

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Diesel Turbo 6, 2.9L

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Diesel

Electric range

654 km

7.8L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

16.2 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

100.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Awesome ride and handing
Big battery means big range
Turbo acceleration is ridiculous

Big GVM/GCM ratings
Active air suspension
Performance/economy

Dislikes

Big price jump from ICE
Lacks fizz and emotion
Ergonomic quirks in the cabin

No ANCAP rating
High purchase price
Intrusive voice activation

2024 Porsche Macan Summary

This might be the biggest gamble in Porsche's history. It's the latest version of its best-selling car, the Porsche Macan, only this one has a very big difference.

You see, this time, it’s all-electric. There is not an internal-combustion engine (ICE) in sight. And that makes climbing into an entry-level Macan significantly more expensive than ever before.

So, will this bold shift help or hinder the Macan in Australia? And is this the country’s best all-electric SUV?

There’s only one way find out.

View full pricing & specs

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.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2024 Porsche Macan 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Verdict

There is no doubting the substance of the Porsche Macan Electric. Its ride, steering and poise make it a joy to drive on twisting roads, and it ticks the practicality boxes, too.

The only lingering question is whether enough people are ready to make the all-electric switch. Only then will we know if Porsche's Macan gamble has paid off.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

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.

Porsche Macan vs Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Porsche Macan vs Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
What's the difference?