Ranking the 2026 Mercedes-Benz SUV Lineup by Towing Capacity: GLC, GLE, and GLS

Not every Mercedes-Benz SUV is built with the same towing capability. Buyers who need to tow a boat, trailer, or other equipment regularly will find meaningful differences across the lineup — from the GLC's moderate capacity to the GLS's 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) maximum. Understanding where each model stands helps narrow the choice before arriving at the dealership.

This guide ranks the 2026 Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup by towing capacity, covering the GLC, GLE, and GLS. Two models — the GLA and GLB — are not officially rated or recommended for towing by the manufacturer and are not included here. All figures apply when each vehicle is properly equipped with a compatible factory trailer hitch.

At a Glance: 2026 Mercedes-Benz SUV Towing Capacities

GLA and GLB: not officially rated or recommended for towing by the manufacturer.

Tier 1: The Heavy Towers — GLS and GLE

GLS 450 4MATIC and GLS 580 4MATIC

Both GLS models share the top towing rating in the lineup at 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg). The GLS 450 4MATIC runs a 3.0 L inline-6 turbocharged mild hybrid engine producing 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC uses a 4.0 L V8 twin-turbocharged engine producing 510 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. Both deliver their towing capacity through 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a standard trailer hitch with wiring for trailer lights and brakes. The GLS also comes with standard Trailer Stability Assist, which monitors for trailer sway and applies targeted braking to stabilize the combination if needed.

The GLS is the largest SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, with a 3,135 mm wheelbase and seating for up to seven passengers. That size provides the ballast and mechanical stability that support consistent heavy-load towing.

GLE 350, GLE 450, and AMG GLE Models

The GLE lineup matches the GLS 450 and GLS 580 on maximum towing with a capacity of 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg) when equipped with the optional factory trailer hitch and AIRMATIC air suspension. The GLE 350 4MATIC uses a 2.0 L inline-4 mild hybrid engine and the GLE 450 4MATIC uses a 3.0 L inline-6 mild hybrid. AMG GLE models, including the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S, share the same 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg) figure.

The GLE also includes Trailer Stability Assist and the same ESP-based trailer sway management as the GLS.

Key towing specs — Tier 1:

• GLS 450 4MATIC and GLS 580 4MATIC: 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) — standard hitch
• GLE models (most configurations with AIRMATIC): up to 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg) — optional hitch
• Trailer Stability Assist standard on both GLS and GLE

Tier 2: AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+

The AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ uses a 4.0 L V8 biturbo engine producing 630 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque through AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Despite its higher performance output compared to the GLS 580, its towing capacity is rated at 7,275 lbs (3,300 kg) — slightly below the non-AMG GLS models.

This is a common pattern with high-performance AMG variants, where suspension tuning and powertrain calibration are optimized for dynamic driving, which can affect the towing ceiling compared to a conventionally tuned equivalent.

Tier 3: GLC Models — Towing Within a Compact SUV

GLC 350e 4MATIC: The GLC's Strongest Tower

The GLC 350e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid holds the highest towing rating in the GLC lineup at 4,409 lbs (2,000 kg). This is notable because the GLC 350e's plug-in hybrid powertrain adds torque capability that exceeds what the conventionally powered GLC variants can manage. Buyers who need a compact SUV with real trailer-hauling ability should look here first within the GLC family.

AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE

The AMG GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE carries a 3,968 lbs (1,800 kg) towing capacity. Given that this model produces 671 combined hp through a performance-hybrid drivetrain and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, it offers meaningful towing capability despite its primarily performance-oriented design.

GLC 300 4MATIC and AMG GLC 43

Both the GLC 300 4MATIC and AMG GLC 43 are rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The GLC 300 achieves this through its 2.0 L mild hybrid drivetrain, while the AMG GLC 43 pairs the same towing capacity with its 416 hp hybrid-assisted engine.

Which Mercedes-Benz SUV Matches Your Towing Needs?

If towing is the primary factor, the GLS 450 4MATIC and GLS 580 4MATIC lead the lineup. Both deliver 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) with a standard hitch and three rows of seating — a practical answer for families who also tow regularly.

The GLE models follow closely, and for buyers who want a mid-size SUV with class-appropriate towing, most GLE configurations reach 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg) when paired with the factory optional hitch and AIRMATIC suspension.

Buyers who need a compact SUV but require more than 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) of towing capacity should consider the GLC 350e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid, which reaches 4,409 lbs (2,000 kg) and also provides electric driving capability for everyday trips.

Experience the 2026 Mercedes-Benz SUV Lineup at Mercedes-Benz Blainville

The team at Mercedes-Benz Blainville in Mirabel can walk you through which configuration in the GLC, GLE, or GLS lineup best matches your towing requirements. Book your test drive at our Mirabel dealership to get behind the wheel of the model that fits your needs.