For 2017, a new GT trim replaces the Limited, adding a monochromatic exterior with sporty flourishes, and the base SXT can be ordered with just two rows of seats. Otherwise, there are only minor feature changes, including the new Anodized Platinum package with two-tone leather upholstery for the Citadel trim.
Pros Unusually spacious third-row seats 8.4-inch touchscreen is one of the best in the class Assertive acceleration with the V8 engine Exceptional towing capacity for a crossover Real off-road capabilities with 4WD and low-range gearing.
Cons Lackluster fuel economy (especially with the V8) Bluetooth streaming audio isn't standard on SXT.
The 2017 Dodge Durango tows like an SUV, drives like a crossover--but crash test scores are a dull spot. Somewhere in the grey zone between body-on-frame SUV and car-like crossover, sits the Dodge Durango. The 5- or 7-seater isn't exactly either: it's a unibody SUV with real towing ability, on the same blurry part of the spectrum as its stablemate, the Jeep Grand Cherokee (and the old Mercedes M- and GL-Class, too).
Pros Hemi V-8 performance and character Feels substantial and refined Confident steering feel V-6 gets engine stop-start
Cons Third-row access is difficult Ride can be busy Gas mileage is so very low
The 2017 Dodge Durango ranks 8 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Dodge Durango has an abundance of cargo room, and its third row is one of the few in the class with sufficient space for adults. It has a comfortable, agile ride, and one of the highest towing capacities in the class. However, its upper trims can be pricier than those of its rivals.
Pros Powerful optional V8 engine Good cargo capacity Intuitive infotainment system Comfortable ride
Cons Expensive upper trims Poor fuel economy with V8
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
