LX570 vs GLS450/550/580

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, Skimlinks, and others.

prwillard2

SILVER Star
Joined
Dec 6, 2019
Threads
58
Messages
2,477
Location
Twentynine Palms, CA
Used the search function and couldn't find anything on this topic. Has anyone here moved from the GLS to the LX or the LX to the GLS? If either pertain to you, could you provide some insight as to why you made the choice you did?

Narrowing down my options (more than likely used, 2016+) and looking between these two more than likely. Reliability, towing capacity, seating for 6+, and gas mileage are all part of my calculus.
 
All I have to offer is that I, personally, would never want to own a late model Daimler product NOT under warrantee.

I agree with you, hence why I was looking for some feedback. All I had was problems after 50k miles on both my Ram 1500s
 
I have owned 6 Mercs, mostly AMG 63 variety and they have even outstanding and reliable since 2014. However, I would get an extended warranty if you’re keeping it past 100k miles. I have driven both the LX570 and GLS580. Honestly, the GLS beats it by a mile in terms of tech and comfort. The massaging seats alone are worth price of admission. Even the GLS450 is plenty powerful for everyday driving. If your lugging kids around and want luxury, go with the GLS. Better cargo capacity as well and usable cup holders for all.
 
I have owned 6 Mercs, mostly AMG 63 variety and they have even outstanding and reliable since 2014. However, I would get an extended warranty if you’re keeping it past 100k miles. I have driven both the LX570 and GLS580. Honestly, the GLS beats it by a mile in terms of tech and comfort. The massaging seats alone are worth price of admission. Even the GLS450 is plenty powerful for everyday driving. If your lugging kids around and want luxury, go with the GLS. Better cargo capacity as well and usable cup holders for all.

Thank you for your insight! Can you provide some examples of what issues you've had past 100k?
 
You’re welcome. The only issues I’ve had are firmware updates and a couple bad window regulators that were covered under warranty. My previous CLS63 had a rear air spring leak, also covered under warranty and they replaced both. No cost! Besides that, they have been built proof. I have never been stranded because of a breakdown or mechanical issue where I’m limping home, like my previous BMW did.
 
I would only consider the new generation GLS over any LX. And that's before we get into reliability. The Lexus will come standard with supple leather and a lot of options that most GLS450s simply won't have. You'll have to find a GLS550 well optioned as an alternative.

Reliability wise the air suspension is often an issue though I've experienced this on the S class, but I've seen plenty of GL's first and second gen slammed on the ground due to a failed air suspension.

One thing I like to do to find common problems in cars is I'll look at every carfax I can and you can quickly gauge what's what. The 550s may have a misfire but that's not a huge fix but definitely will cut your trip short.

Compare the interiors, I think the LX is far more opulent and you will likely find the same when you compare them in person:

GLS
3284acee3498f024b64a082360ec617b.jpg


LX570
lexus-lx-570-dashboard.jpg
 
I will say though, my good friends S600 had lots of issues. But, that was a V12 and she loved and hated that thing. She sense traded it for a new 2018 S550 and drives the crap out of it. Denver to her 2nd home in Scottsdale twice a year and has had zero issues with it. Probably puts 20k miles a year on it easily.
 
I would only consider the new generation GLS over any LX. And that's before we get into reliability. The Lexus will come standard with supple leather and a lot of options that most GLS450s simply won't have. You'll have to find a GLS550 well optioned as an alternative.

Reliability wise the air suspension is often an issue though I've experienced this on the S class, but I've seen plenty of GL's first and second gen slammed on the ground due to a failed air suspension.

One thing I like to do to find common problems in cars is I'll look at every carfax I can and you can quickly gauge what's what. The 550s may have a misfire but that's not a huge fix but definitely will cut your trip short.

Compare the interiors, I think the LX is far more opulent and you will likely find the same when you compare them in person:

GLS
3284acee3498f024b64a082360ec617b.jpg


LX570
lexus-lx-570-dashboard.jpg

Thanks for the info. Are you saying that you'd only consider the GLS 580 over the LX?
 
Before settling on a 2021 Landcruiser, we were looking at these 2 vehicles. Here's my personal opinion:

GLS drives better (by a lot), gets better mileage and has much better technology. The flat screens in the new ones are gorgeous, but even the previous generation is a little ahead of Lexus on tech.

LX is going to be more reliable and will hold its value better. LX can do real offroading, the GLS really can't.

Looks are subjective, but I think the LX looks better and feel like it has a more luxurious interior.

I don't think there's a wrong answer but German cars get expensive to maintain as they age.
 
Before settling on a 2021 Landcruiser, we were looking at these 2 vehicles. Here's my personal opinion:

GLS drives better (by a lot), gets better mileage and has much better technology. The flat screens in the new ones are gorgeous, but even the previous generation is a little ahead of Lexus on tech.

LX is going to be more reliable and will hold its value better. LX can do real offroading, the GLS really can't.

Looks are subjective, but I think the LX looks better and feel like it has a more luxurious interior.

I don't think there's a wrong answer but German cars get expensive to maintain as they age.

Thanks for your insight! Were you looking at the GLS 580 or the GLS 450 before you decided on your cruiser? I don't need this vehicle to do any off roading as I'm currently building my LX470. Really will need this vehicle for 8 to 10 years for towing a 6000lb trailer and carrying around a growing family. Seems like certified pre-owned with an extended warranty probably makes the most sense either way I go.
 
I would only consider the new generation GLS over any LX. And that's before we get into reliability. The Lexus will come standard with supple leather and a lot of options that most GLS450s simply won't have. You'll have to find a GLS550 well optioned as an alternative.

Reliability wise the air suspension is often an issue though I've experienced this on the S class, but I've seen plenty of GL's first and second gen slammed on the ground due to a failed air suspension.

One thing I like to do to find common problems in cars is I'll look at every carfax I can and you can quickly gauge what's what. The 550s may have a misfire but that's not a huge fix but definitely will cut your trip short.

Compare the interiors, I think the LX is far more opulent and you will likely find the same when you compare them in person:

GLS
3284acee3498f024b64a082360ec617b.jpg


LX570
lexus-lx-570-dashboard.jpg
The Lx looks nicer for sure compared to the previous gen GL but it still out drives the LX on the road
Before settling on a 2021 Landcruiser, we were looking at these 2 vehicles. Here's my personal opinion:

GLS drives better (by a lot), gets better mileage and has much better technology. The flat screens in the new ones are gorgeous, but even the previous generation is a little ahead of Lexus on tech.

LX is going to be more reliable and will hold its value better. LX can do real offroading, the GLS really can't.

Looks are subjective, but I think the LX looks better and feel like it has a more luxurious interior.

I don't think there's a wrong answer but German cars get expensive to maintain as they age.
Agree, the exterior is definitely subjective as I much prefer the front of the Merc and like the rear of the LX 🤣 The newer Gen GLS interior is the cats meow and like you said has much better tech. Oh, let’s not forget the massage seats are ridiculous! I tend to sit in the car longer before going into the grocery store just to relax.
Thanks for your insight! Were you looking at the GLS 580 or the GLS 450 before you decided on your cruiser? I don't need this vehicle to do any off roading as I'm currently building my LX470. Really will need this vehicle for 8 to 10 years for towing a 6000lb trailer and carrying around a growing family. Seems like certified pre-owned with an extended warranty probably makes the most sense either way I go.
I had a sense you were looking for more pavement duty. The GLS would be a happier choice. It doesn’t drive like a boat and makes daily driving a little more comfortable. Definitely get a cert. preowned or buy an extended warranty. Yearly maintenance will be at a higher cost vs LX though. The GLS 470 will get better MPG to the LX as well.
 
Thanks for your insight! Were you looking at the GLS 580 or the GLS 450 before you decided on your cruiser? I don't need this vehicle to do any off roading as I'm currently building my LX470. Really will need this vehicle for 8 to 10 years for towing a 6000lb trailer and carrying around a growing family. Seems like certified pre-owned with an extended warranty probably makes the most sense either way I go.
We were looking at the GLS450. Has plenty of power and gets good mileage for as big as it is.
 
Thanks for your insight! Were you looking at the GLS 580 or the GLS 450 before you decided on your cruiser? I don't need this vehicle to do any off roading as I'm currently building my LX470. Really will need this vehicle for 8 to 10 years for towing a 6000lb trailer and carrying around a growing family. Seems like certified pre-owned with an extended warranty probably makes the most sense either way I go.
Stupid Q on my end...why not get a truck to tow? These newer trucks are very fancy and easy on the eyes interior wise.
 
Stupid Q on my end...why not get a truck to tow? These newer trucks are very fancy and easy on the eyes interior wise.

Not a stupid question at all. Honestly have had several trucks, not really sure if I need another one. Not towing a fifth wheel trailer, more like a 21 footer. Plus I'm looking for a more comfortable ride than a truck is going to offer. My wife was a huge fan of the 2020 LX570 AHC. My 2001 AHC, not so much though.
 
Thanks for the info. Are you saying that you'd only consider the GLS 580 over the LX?
Yeah the new body 580. We have a 2020 GLE350 and only considered it due to the interior and tech. Even if I was buying brand new I wouldn't keep a Mercedes for 8-10 years with the intention of any serious use.

@Angelo1 agreed the GLS will drive better
 
Even if I was buying brand new I wouldn't keep a Mercedes for 8-10 years with the intention of any serious use.

By serious use do you mean daily driving on pavement or off-roading? This will be strictly an on road family/trailer hauler. My expectation is whatever I get, I will keep for 8 to 10 years. Thats another reason I was leaning towards the LX570, I love my current 2001 LX470, and Mercedes reliability... leaves something to be desired from what I've read.
 
How many “realistic” miles per year are you planning on new vehicle?
 
How many “realistic” miles per year are you planning on new vehicle?

Probably no more than 20k.

Also, do you know if on the 2020+ versions of the GLS450 if ventilated seats are standard? I will not buy a luxury vehicle without ventilated seats.
 
Probably no more than 20k.

Also, do you know if on the 2020+ versions of the GLS450 if ventilated seats are standard? I will not buy a luxury vehicle without ventilated seats.
I’m the exact same way. I live in the South and ventilated seats are a standard in my household. I’m pretty sure they are standard.
 

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top Bottom