Cadillac Escalade vs Mercedes-Benz GLS: Which Should You Buy in UAE?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Cadillac Escalade⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLS⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across UAE.

⁦Cadillac Escalade⁩ VS ⁦Mercedes-Benz GLS⁩: the verdict

The Cadillac Escalade is the definitive choice for buyers prioritizing immense size, powerful V8 engines, and American luxury, especially those needing 8-passenger seating. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a broader range of trims with superior fuel efficiency and quicker acceleration in its sportier variants, appealing to those seeking a more agile luxury SUV experience.
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Price Comparison
Starting at526,000 – 788,000 AED470,300 – 1,105,900 AED
Engine & Power
Engine6,162 cc · 8 cyl2,999 – 4,600 cc · 6 – 8 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)420 – 682 hp367 – 612 hp
Torque (Nm)623 – 885 Nm500 – 850 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)6.3 s4.9 – 6.2 s
Top Speed (Km/h)180 km/h250 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)14 L/100km9 – 11.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity98 L90 – 100 L
Gears107 – 9
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.2 / 5.4 m × 2.0 / 2.1 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m5.1 / 5.2 / 5.2 m × 2.0 / 2.0 / 2.1 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.9 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.9 / 3.1 m3.1 / 3.1 m
Curb Weight (kg)2,624 kg2,385 – 2,740 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)430 – 722 L355 – 680 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity8 seats4 / 7 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAshtrayAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBody KItBonnet LightBrembo BrakesBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCool boxCooled SeatsCornering assistCornering LightsCRASH AUTO DOOR UNLOCKCrosswind AssistCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDrive ComputerDual Exhaust TipDVDDVD PlayerDynamic Damper ControlDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeEmergency Brake AssistFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFrameless DoorsFront BrakesFront BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestFront WindshieldGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHead-Up DisplayHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistIlluminated Door HandlesIlluminated Door SillsImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRoad Sign AssistRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresRunning BoardScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSecurity SystemSide Impact BarSilver TrimSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSurround CameraTailgate with HatchTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverTorsen Limited Slip DifferentialTouchscreenTowing HookTraction ControlTraffic Jam AssistantTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Ventilated SeatsVoice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive BrakeAdaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAdaptive HeadlightsAdaptive Suspension PackageAdvanced Air Bags System (AABS)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAshtrayAttention AssistAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAuto Retractable Hardtop RoofAuto Start / StopAutomatic ACAutomatic Headlight Range ControlAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)Bi-Xenon HeadlampsBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored GrilleBody Colored MirrorsBonnet LightBrake CalipersBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCornering LightsCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDVDDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDDHDMIHeadlight WashersHeated Cooled SeatsHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlIlluminated Door HandlesImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLumbar SupportMagnesium Paddle ShiftersMap Reading LampsMicrophoneMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersOff-Road tyresOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPaddle ShiftersParallel Parking AssistParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPuddle LampPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BlindsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat MassageSeat MemorySeatbelt pretensionerSeatsSensorSide Impact BarSilver TrimSkid PlatesSonarSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Audio VolumeSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSport PedalsSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTonneau CoverToolkitTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - ChromeWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Large Families

The Cadillac Escalade wins for large families, offering standard 8-seat capacity and a generous maximum trunk capacity of 722 liters, ideal for passengers and cargo.

2

Best for Performance Luxury

The Mercedes-Benz GLS takes the lead for performance luxury, with its quickest trims accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, offering a more dynamic driving experience.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For better fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is the clear winner, achieving as low as 9 L/100km compared to the Escalade's 14 L/100km.

4

Best for Commanding Presence

The Cadillac Escalade offers an unrivaled commanding road presence due to its larger dimensions, with lengths up to 5.4 meters, making it stand out.

Pros & cons

Cadillac Escalade

Pros

  • Higher maximum horsepower (682 hp) and torque (885 Nm)
  • Standard 8-seat capacity across models
  • Larger maximum trunk space (722 L)
  • More commanding road presence due to larger size
  • Distinctive American luxury styling

Cons

  • Higher fuel consumption (14 L/100km)
  • Slower acceleration (6.3 seconds)
  • Higher starting price (from 510,500 AED)
  • Less diverse engine lineup

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Pros

  • Significantly better fuel economy (as low as 9 L/100km)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 4.9 seconds)
  • Lower starting price (from 470,300 AED)
  • Wider range of engine options (6-8 cylinders)
  • Higher top speed (up to 250 km/h)

Cons

  • Lower maximum seating capacity (7 seats)
  • Smaller maximum trunk space (680 L)
  • Higher top-end price for ultimate luxury trims (up to 1,105,900 AED)
  • Less imposing physical presence

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for families, the Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

The Cadillac Escalade is generally better for larger families due to its standard 8-seat capacity, compared to the GLS's maximum of 7 seats. Additionally, the Escalade offers a larger maximum trunk capacity of 722 liters, making it more practical for family trips and cargo. For ultimate space and passenger comfort, the Escalade is the preferred choice.

Which offers better performance, the Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

While the Cadillac Escalade boasts higher maximum horsepower and torque (up to 682 hp and 885 Nm), the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers quicker acceleration in its sportier trims, reaching 100 km/h in as little as 4.9 seconds. The GLS also has a higher top speed of 250 km/h. For raw power, Escalade wins, but for overall agility and rapid acceleration, the GLS has an edge.

Is the Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz GLS more fuel-efficient?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is significantly more fuel-efficient than the Cadillac Escalade. The GLS achieves fuel economy figures as low as 9 L/100km, while the Escalade consumes 14 L/100km. If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, the GLS is the better option for lower running costs.

Which luxury SUV is more spacious, the Escalade or GLS?

The Cadillac Escalade offers more overall spaciousness, particularly in terms of passenger seating and cargo volume. It comes standard with 8 seats and provides a maximum trunk capacity of 722 liters. The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers up to 7 seats and a maximum trunk capacity of 680 liters. For maximum interior room and cargo space, the Escalade is the superior choice.

How do the prices compare between the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes-Benz GLS in the UAE?

The Cadillac Escalade in the UAE is priced between 510,500 AED and 788,000 AED. The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a broader price range, starting lower at 470,300 AED but extending significantly higher to 1,105,900 AED for its top-tier luxury and performance variants. The GLS offers a more accessible entry point, but its high-end models are considerably more expensive.