Mercedes GLS Test Drive Report: Ultimate Luxury

Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLS test drive offers an unparalleled experience of ultimate luxury, blending massive SUV capability with refined driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology. It’s a sophisticated, spacious, and smooth ride that truly defines its segment.

When you think of a large, luxurious SUV, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the promise of ample space, supreme comfort, and a commanding presence on the road. But sometimes, even the most desirable vehicles can feel a bit… uninspiring to drive. That’s where the Mercedes-Benz GLS shines. It’s not just another big car; it’s a carefully crafted experience designed to delight at every turn, from the moment you approach it to the very last mile of your journey. If you’re a discerning driver looking for a full-size luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on performance, comfort, or technology, you’re in the right place.

This Mercedes GLS test drive report isn’t just about listing features; it’s about conveying the feeling of being behind the wheel of what is often called the “S-Class of SUVs.” We’ll delve into how it drives, what makes its interior so special, and whether it truly lives up to its lofty reputation. Get ready to understand what makes the GLS a standout choice for those who demand the best.

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Your Mercedes GLS Test Drive: What to Expect and How to Ace It

Taking a Mercedes-Benz GLS for a spin is more than just a car shopping trip; it’s an immersion into German engineering and opulent comfort. To make the most of your experience and truly assess if the GLS is the right fit for you, a structured approach is key. Here’s how to conduct your own ultimate luxury test drive.

Preparing for Your Test Drive

Before you even set foot in the dealership, a little preparation goes a long way.

Know Your Needs: What are your priorities? Is it passenger space, cargo capacity, towing capability, or advanced technology? List them out.
Research Trims and Options: Mercedes-Benz offers various GLS models (e.g., GLS 450, GLS 580) and countless optional packages. Briefly familiarize yourself with them so you know what you’re looking for. The official Mercedes-Benz USA website is an excellent resource for this.
Schedule an Extended Drive: A quick loop around the block isn’t enough. Ask your dealer for at least 30-60 minutes. Request to drive on varied roads—city streets, highways, and even some country lanes if possible.
Bring Your Crew (If Applicable): If you often transport family, bring them along. Their feedback on space and comfort in the second and third rows is invaluable.
Bring Your Gear: If you frequently haul bulky items, bring a stroller, golf clubs, or a large suitcase to test the cargo space.

During the Test Drive: A Systematic Approach

Once you’re in the driver’s seat, focus on key areas that define the GLS experience.

##### 1. First Impressions: Exterior and Entry

Visual Appeal: Walk around the vehicle. Notice the powerful yet elegant lines. How does the design communicate luxury and capability?
Entry and Exit: Open the doors. How substantial do they feel? Step inside, paying attention to how easy it is to get into the driver’s seat and then the second and third rows. For a large SUV, ease of ingress and egress is crucial.

##### 2. The Cockpit: Technology and Comfort

Seating Position: Adjust the driver’s seat. Is it supportive? Does it offer excellent visibility?
Infotainment System (MBUX): Spend time with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX).
Touchscreen: Navigate the menus. Is it intuitive?
Voice Control: Test the “Hey Mercedes” function. Try simple commands like “Take me to the nearest coffee shop” or “Set the cabin temperature to 70 degrees.” This is a major highlight of the GLS.
Instrument Cluster: Customize the digital display. Explore the different views.
Materials and Build Quality: Touch and feel the surfaces. Look at the stitching, the wood or metal trims, and the overall fit and finish. This is where luxury is truly felt.
Ambient Lighting: Explore the different ambient lighting colors and adjustments. How does it enhance the cabin’s mood?

##### 3. Driving Dynamics: Performance and Ride

This is where the “S-Class of SUVs” truly separates itself.

Engine and Acceleration:
Start the engine. Is it remarkably quiet?
When accelerating, how smooth is the power delivery? The GLS often features mild-hybrid systems (like the EQ Boost) that smooth out initial acceleration and aid efficiency. Listen for vibrations or harshness.
Test the kickdown – press the accelerator firmly from a cruising speed. How quickly does it respond, and how smooth is the gearshift?
Transmission:
The GLS typically uses Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Pay attention to shift points. Are they seamless and nearly imperceptible? Try using the paddle shifters for manual control.
Suspension and Ride Quality:
Road Imperfections: Drive over bumps, potholes, and uneven surfaces. How well does the suspension absorb them? The optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL system (if equipped) is a game-changer here, actively counteracting body roll and road imperfections.
Body Roll: On curves and turns, how much does the GLS lean? A good luxury SUV should remain remarkably flat and composed.
Steering:
How is the steering feel? Is it precise, or does it feel vague? Is it weighted appropriately for different speeds (lighter at low speeds, heavier at high speeds)?
Braking:
How do the brakes feel? Are they strong, consistent, and easy to modulate for smooth stops?
NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness):
Listen for road noise, wind noise, and engine noise at various speeds. A benchmark luxury SUV should be exceptionally quiet inside.

##### 4. Space and Versatility: Passengers and Cargo

Second Row Comfort: Sit in the second row. Is there ample legroom and headroom? How are the seating adjustments? Are there climate controls and charging ports?
Third Row Access: How easy is it to access the third row? Mercedes has engineered a clever system for this.
Third Row Comfort: Sit in the third row. Is it usable for adults on shorter trips, or is it strictly for children?
Cargo Space:
With all seats up: How much space is left?
With the third row folded: Test the space. Is it flat and usable?
With both the second and third rows folded: Evaluate the maximum cargo volume. Use the items you brought to get a real feel for the space. Test the powered liftgate and the 60/40 split-folding capability.

##### 5. Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

Visibility: How is the all-around visibility from the driver’s seat?
Driver Aids (If Engaged): If the car has features like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, ask the dealer to demonstrate them safely. Understand how they work and how they contribute to a relaxed driving experience. Features like DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist are designed for effortless highway cruising.

Post-Test Drive Reflection

After your drive, take a moment to jot down your thoughts. Compare how the GLS measured up against your personal checklist and the expectations set by its luxury positioning.

Mercedes GLS Test Drive Report: Key Features and Driving Impressions

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is the pinnacle of the brand’s SUV offerings, designed to compete with the best of the best in the full-size luxury segment. It’s built on a foundation of comfort, capability, and sophisticated technology.

Engine Options and Performance

The GLS typically comes with robust powertrain options designed for smooth, effortless power delivery.

GLS 450 4MATIC: This model usually features a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid drive (EQ Boost). This system provides an extra 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts, enhancing acceleration and overall smoothness.
Horsepower: Around 362 hp
Torque: Around 369 lb-ft (+ 184 lb-ft from EQ Boost)
0-60 mph: Approximately 5.9 seconds
GLS 580 4MATIC: This more potent option typically employs a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, also with EQ Boost. This offers a significant step up in both power and torque.
Horsepower: Around 483 hp
Torque: Around 516 lb-ft (+ 184 lb-ft from EQ Boost)
0-60 mph: Approximately 4.9 seconds

Both engines are paired with the 9-Speed Automatic Transmission (9G-TRONIC) and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions.

Ride and Handling: The “S-Class of SUVs” in Action

This is where the GLS truly earns its moniker. Mercedes-Benz has poured significant engineering effort into making this large SUV feel surprisingly agile and supremely comfortable.

Smoothness is Paramount: The primary focus of the GLS’s driving experience is comfort. Regardless of the engine, acceleration is
smooth and linear, thanks to the sophisticated powertrains and the adept 9G-TRONIC transmission. Gear changes are often imperceptible.
Advanced Suspension: The standard AIRMATIC® air suspension system is excellent at smoothing out road imperfections. However, the real magic happens when the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL is specified on models like the GLS 580. This advanced hydropneumatic suspension system offers unparalleled ride quality by individually controlling the spring and damping forces at each wheel. It actively counteracts body roll in corners, dives during braking, and squats during acceleration, creating a remarkably level and composed experience that feels almost surreal in such a large vehicle. You can learn more about this revolutionary system on the Mercedes-Benz innovation pages.
Quiet Cabin: NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels are exceptionally low. Wind noise is minimal, road noise is well-muffled, and engine sound is present only when strong acceleration is demanded, and even then, it’s a refined growl. This creates a serene sanctuary for occupants.
Handling: While it’s a large SUV, the GLS handles with surprising grace. The advanced suspension, combined with responsive steering and the all-wheel-drive system, inspires confidence through sweeping bends. It doesn’t feel sporty in the vein of an AMG model, but for its class, its ability to feel stable and planted is remarkable.

Interior Luxury and Technology

The interior of the GLS is a masterclass in luxury, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology.

Design: The dashboard is dominated by the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, featuring two large 12.3-inch screens seamlessly integrated behind a single glass panel. The design is modern, elegant, and feels very premium.
Materials: Expect the finest materials: supple Nappa leather, real wood veneers, brushed metal accents, and soft-touch surfaces throughout. The attention to detail, from the stitching on the seats to the fit of the trim pieces, is exceptional.
MBUX System: This system is a significant leap forward.
Intuitive Control: It can be operated via the central touchscreen, the touch-sensitive control buttons on the steering wheel, or the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant.
Voice Assistant: The “Hey Mercedes” command is highly sophisticated, capable of understanding natural language commands for navigation, climate control, entertainment, and even learning your preferences over time.
Augmented Reality Navigation: Available navigation can overlay directional arrows and street names onto a live camera feed, making complex turns incredibly easy to follow.
Comfort: The front seats are multi-contour, heated, ventilated, and offer massage functions, making long journeys effortless. The second row is equally spacious and can be optioned with power adjustments and climate control.
Third Row: Mercedes has made the third row surprisingly accommodating for a vehicle in this class, offering more legroom than many rivals. It’s easily accessible via power-sliding second-row seats.

Mercedes GLS vs. Key Competitors: A Quick Comparison

When considering a luxury SUV like the GLS, it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against its main rivals.

When comparing models, consider what aspects of luxury are most important to you. The GLS excels in delivering an isolated, serene, and technologically advanced cabin experience with a ride quality that is hard to beat, especially with the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mercedes GLS Test Drive

Here are answers to some common questions prospective GLS buyers might have.

Q1: Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS worth the price for a luxury SUV?

A1: For buyers prioritizing ultimate ride comfort, a sophisticated interior, advanced technology, and ample passenger space, the GLS often justifies its price. It competes at the very top of the luxury SUV segment.

Q2: What is the most important feature to test during a GLS test drive?

A2: The ride quality and suspension are paramount. Pay close attention to how the GLS handles bumps and road imperfections, especially if it’s equipped with the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL system. Also, thoroughly test the MBUX infotainment system and its voice control.

Q3: How does the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension differ from the standard AIRMATIC suspension?

A3: AIRMATIC is a good air suspension system that offers a comfortable ride. E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL is a more advanced, active hydropneumatic system that individually controls each wheel’s suspension, actively counteracting body roll and improving ride comfort and handling significantly. It’s a major upgrade.

Q4: Is the third row of the Mercedes GLS comfortable for adults?

A4: Yes, the GLS offers one of the most adult-friendly third rows in its class, with decent legroom and headroom, especially for shorter to medium-length journeys. Excellent compared to many competing large SUVs.

Q5: How reliable is the MBUX infotainment system?

A5: Mercedes-Benz has refined the MBUX system over the years. While complex systems can have occasional glitches, it’s generally considered functional, intuitive, and a strong point for the GLS. Regular software updates help maintain performance.

Q6: What should I ask the dealer during the GLS test drive?

A6: Ask about available packages (especially E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL), any specific features you’re interested in, the warranty, and financing options. Also, inquire about the maintenance schedule and costs for a vehicle of this caliber.

Q7: Can I test the off-road capabilities of the GLS?

A7: The GLS is designed as a luxury road vehicle with AWD and good ground clearance, not an extreme off-roader. While it can handle light off-road situations (like gravel roads or moderate trails) thanks to its AWD and adjustable air suspension, most dealers won’t allow you to test significant off-road terrain during a standard test drive.

Conclusion: Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS the Ultimate Luxury SUV for You?

After experiencing the Mercedes-Benz GLS firsthand, the verdict is clear: this is a full-size luxury SUV that sets a remarkably high bar. It masterfully blends the commanding presence and spaciousness expected of its class with the refined driving dynamics and opulent comfort synonymous with the S-Class sedan.

The test drive reveals a vehicle that prioritizes the well-being and enjoyment of its occupants. From

Mercedes GLS Test Drive Report: Ultimate Luxury