Trim Levels

The Lincoln Navigator is offered in the Reserve trim, featuring high-end materials, advanced technology, and a luxurious cabin. The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class lineup includes the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with each trim adding performance upgrades and premium features.

Engine and Transmission

The Lincoln Navigator is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology, generating 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 580 upgrades to a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Performance

The Navigator provides a smooth and composed ride, with its adaptive suspension ensuring comfort on long trips. Despite its size, the twin-turbo V6 delivers strong acceleration and a refined driving experience.

The GLS-Class, particularly in its higher trims, offers a sportier driving experience with responsive handling. The AMG GLS 63, with its powerful V8 engine, significantly enhances performance for those looking for a more dynamic ride.

Fuel Economy

The Navigator achieves an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

The GLS 450 offers better efficiency with 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, thanks to its smaller engine and mild-hybrid system. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 600 have significantly lower fuel economy due to their powerful V8 engines.

Towing Capacity

The Lincoln Navigator leads in towing with a maximum capacity of up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, making it slightly less capable than the Navigator in this regard.

Interior Design

The Navigator offers a spacious and upscale interior with high-quality materials such as premium leather, real wood trim, and metal accents. The available 30-way power-adjustable seats with massage functionality add to the luxury experience.

The GLS-Class features a sleek, high-tech interior with a minimalist yet elegant design. Available Nappa leather, customizable ambient lighting, and premium wood trims create a refined atmosphere. The Maybach GLS 600 enhances luxury further with executive-style seating and premium craftsmanship.

Cargo Space

The Navigator is one of the most spacious SUVs in its class, offering 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The GLS-Class provides 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. While spacious, it falls short of the Navigator’s best-in-class cargo capacity.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Lincoln Navigator is equipped with a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated navigation. An available Revel Ultima 3D 20-speaker sound system delivers an immersive audio experience.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class features a 12.3-inch dual-screen MBUX infotainment system with a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display. It also supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and comes with an optional Burmester 3D surround sound system.

Technology

The Navigator includes Lincoln Co-Pilot360, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system enhance convenience and safety.

The GLS-Class offers Mercedes-Benz’s cutting-edge technology, including the MBUX voice assistant, augmented reality navigation, and semi-autonomous driving features. The available Drive Pilot system enhances hands-free driving capabilities.

Safety

Both SUVs come standard with a wide range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Navigator also includes evasive steering assist and intersection collision avoidance.

The GLS-Class enhances safety with features such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe technology, which prepares the vehicle for an impending collision.

NHTSA/IIHS Ratings

Official safety ratings for the 2025 models have not been released yet, but both SUVs are expected to perform well in crash tests. Previous models of the Navigator and GLS-Class have consistently received high marks from the NHTSA and IIHS.

Warranty

The Lincoln Navigator comes with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Lincoln also provides complimentary maintenance for the first year.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class includes a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty, but maintenance is not included. Mercedes offers prepaid maintenance plans for additional coverage.

Conclusion

The 2025 Lincoln Navigator and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class both offer premium luxury experiences but cater to slightly different buyers. The Navigator is ideal for those who need maximum interior space, towing capability, and American-style luxury. It provides best-in-class cargo space and superior standard features at a lower price point.

The GLS-Class, on the other hand, excels in advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and refined German engineering. Buyers looking for cutting-edge infotainment, a sleek design, and semi-autonomous driving features may prefer the GLS.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to priorities. If you need a full-size SUV with best-in-class space, towing, and comfort, the Navigator is the better choice. If you prefer a sportier, high-tech driving experience with premium European luxury, the GLS-Class is a strong contender.