Mercedes GLS Review: Legendary Luxury, Effortless

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size luxury SUV that masterfully blends robust capability with opulent comfort and advanced technology, making it an effortless choice for families and discerning drivers.

The world of luxury SUVs can feel overwhelming, with so many impressive options vying for your attention. If you’re drawn to the pinnacle of automotive excellence, the Mercedes-Benz GLS often stands out. It’s designed for those who demand the best in space, comfort, and performance, all wrapped in that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz prestige. But what exactly makes the GLS the legend it is today? Let’s explore this exceptional vehicle and understand why it continues to impress.

Mercedes GLS Review: Legendary Luxury, Effortless

As Bryan Bowman from MercedesBlue, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing many Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and the GLS always leaves a lasting impression. It’s the S-Class of SUVs, a statement of arrival that doesn’t compromise. This review will dive deep into what makes the GLS a standout in its class, covering its design, performance, interior, technology, and practicality. Whether you’re considering a purchase or simply an admirer of fine German engineering, this guide is crafted to give you a comprehensive understanding of this flagship SUV.

The Essence of the GLS: The S-Class of SUVs

Mercedes-Benz often refers to the GLS as the “S-Class of SUVs,” and this moniker is well-earned. It means you’re getting the highest level of luxury, comfort, and advanced technology that Mercedes-Benz offers, translated into a versatile, commanding SUV package. This isn’t just a large vehicle; it’s an experience – a sanctuary on wheels that can transport your family and their gear in unparalleled style and serenity.

Key attributes that define the GLS experience include:

Spaciousness: SeATING for up to seven adults in three rows, with generous legroom and versatility.
Supreme Comfort: Advanced suspension systems and lavish interior appointments create a ride that rivals a luxury sedan.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Access to Mercedes-Benz’s latest infotainment, driver assistance, and convenience features.
Powerful Performance: Smooth, potent engines deliver effortless acceleration and confident highway cruising.

This review will break down each of these elements, helping you understand why the GLS is often considered the benchmark for full-size luxury SUVs.

Exterior Design: Commanding Presence, Elegant Lines

The exterior design of the Mercedes-Benz GLS strikes a perfect balance between imposing presence and refined elegance. It’s a vehicle that looks at home in a sophisticated urban setting or confidently navigating country roads. The GLS projects an image of power and prestige without being ostentatious.

The signature Mercedes-Benz grille, with its prominent star emblem, anchors the front fascia. Flanking it are sleek LED headlights that not only illuminate the road brilliantly but also contribute to the vehicle’s modern, assertive stance. The body lines are clean and sculpted, hinting at the power beneath the surface while maintaining a sense of aerodynamic efficiency. The elevated stance, robust proportions, and available large alloy wheels all underscore its SUV capabilities. At the rear, distinctive LED taillights and polished exhaust tips complete the sophisticated look.

Key Design Elements:

• Dominant front grille with the iconic Mercedes-Benz star.
• Advanced MULTIBEAM LED headlights for superior visibility and design.
• Sculpted body panels and a confident profile.
• Aerodynamic shaping for improved efficiency.
• Stylish rear design with integrated exhaust elements.

Interior Luxury: A Sanctuary on Wheels

Step inside the Mercedes-Benz GLS, and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship. The cabin is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to creating environments that are both comfortable and technologically advanced. Every surface, from the hand-stitched Nappa leather to the meticulously finished wood trims, speaks of quality and attention to detail.

The GLS offers a spacious and airy cabin, designed to accommodate up to seven occupants comfortably. The seats are sculpted for long-distance comfort, offering heating, ventilation, and a massage function in many trims. The second and third rows are surprisingly accommodating, even for adults, a rarity in many SUVs. The effortless power-folding of the second-row seats makes access to the third row a breeze, and the third row itself is power-adjustable for optimal passenger comfort.

The dashboard is a masterpiece of modern design, dominated by the expansive MBUX infotainment system. This dual-screen setup flows seamlessly, providing intuitive access to vehicle controls, navigation, and entertainment. Ambient lighting, which can be customized with a spectrum of colors, further enhances the mood, creating a truly personalized and relaxing interior sanctuary. The build quality is exceptional, with no squeaks or rattles, ensuring a serene experience, even at highway speeds.

Performance & Powertrain: Effortless Power, Refined Ride

The Mercedes-Benz GLS lineup offers potent yet incredibly smooth powertrains designed to deliver effortless acceleration and a supremely comfortable ride. Whether you choose the GLS 450 or the more potent GLS 580, you’re in for an experience that prioritizes refinement and effortless command of the road.

GLS 450 4MATIC

The GLS 450 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine with mild-hybrid technology (EQ Boost). This setup delivers a robust 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The integrated EQ Boost system provides an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque for short bursts, offering smoother acceleration from a standstill and improved responsiveness. This powertrain is paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, ensuring confident traction in all conditions.

GLS 580 4MATIC

For those seeking even more power, the GLS 580 features a 4.4-liter V8 biturbo engine, also enhanced with EQ Boost. This combination produces a formidable 483 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque, with the EQ Boost system adding similar temporary power gains as in the GLS 450. The V8 offers a deeper, more authoritative engine note and even more spirited acceleration. Like the GLS 450, it comes standard with the 9G-TRONIC transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (Optional)

A truly revolutionary feature available on select GLS models is the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL. This sophisticated suspension system uses cameras to scan the road ahead and proactively adjust each wheel’s suspension individually. It can counteract body roll in corners, absorb bumps and dips, and even allow the vehicle to “rock” itself out of sand or mud. This system elevates the ride quality to an almost surreal level, making bumps and imperfections in the road virtually nonexistent. It’s a glimpse into the future of automotive suspension technology, offering capabilities far beyond traditional systems. For more information on advanced suspension systems, you can explore resources from organizations like the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), which details advancements in vehicle dynamics and control.

Technology & MBUX: Intuitive, Intelligent, Integrated

Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of automotive technology, and the GLS is a prime example of this innovation. The star of the show is the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, a revolutionary interface that is both visually stunning and incredibly intuitive.

The MBUX system typically features two large, high-resolution screens integrated into a single sleek unit that spans a significant portion of the dashboard. The driver display is customizable, offering various layouts for essential information like speed, RPM, and navigation. The central touchscreen serves as the hub for infotainment, climate control, navigation, and vehicle settings. Voice control is a significant part of the MBUX experience; simply say “Hey Mercedes,” followed by your command, and the system can adjust the temperature, find a destination, play music, or even answer questions about the vehicle. The natural language understanding is remarkably advanced.

Beyond MBUX, the GLS is packed with driver assistance and convenience technologies designed to enhance safety and reduce driving fatigue:

• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: Adaptive cruise control that can maintain a set speed and following distance, and even automatically brake and accelerate in traffic.
• Active Steering Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, even on gently curving roads.
• PRE-SAFE® System: Prepares the vehicle and occupants for an imminent collision by tightening seatbelts, closing windows, and adjusting seats.
• 360° Camera: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier.
• Augmented Reality Navigation: Overlays navigation directions and traffic information onto a live video feed of the road ahead, making turns and lane changes crystal clear.

These technologies work seamlessly together, offering a sophisticated and reassuring driving experience, embodying the “effortless” aspect of the GLS’s character.

Practicality & Versatility: Family-Friendly, Load-Ready

While the Mercedes-Benz GLS exudes luxury, it doesn’t forget its role as a full-size SUV capable of handling the demands of family life and cargo hauling. Its impressive interior space and thoughtful features make it exceptionally versatile.

As mentioned, the cabin comfortably seats up to seven adults across three rows. The second row offers standard power adjustment for easy access, and the third row is also power-folding, allowing for effortless conversion of the cargo area. With all seats in use, there’s still a usable cargo space for groceries or smaller bags. However, fold down the third row, and you unlock a substantial cargo volume perfect for luggage, sports equipment, or shopping sprees. Fold down both the second and third rows, and the GLS transforms into a genuine cargo hauler, capable of carrying large items.

The GLS is also well-equipped for towing, with a respectable towing capacity that makes it suitable for pulling a boat, trailer, or other recreational vehicles. The standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence when dealing with slippery conditions or light off-road excursions, further enhancing its versatility.

Cargo Space (Approximate Figures):

Seating Configuration	Cargo Volume (Cubic Feet)
All seats up	13.0
Third row folded	42.7
Second and Third rows folded	84.7

This impressive cargo capacity, combined with seating for seven and optional towing capabilities, makes the GLS an incredibly practical choice for families who need space and flexibility without sacrificing luxury.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Serene, Sure-Footed

The Mercedes-Benz GLS delivers a driving experience that lives up to its “legendary luxury, effortless” promise. It’s a vehicle designed for comfortable, confident, and serene long-distance travel, yet it remains composed and capable when the road gets more engaging.

At lower speeds and in urban environments, the GLS feels surprisingly maneuverable for its size, thanks in part to its responsive steering and the available 360° camera system. The ride is exceptionally smooth, with the advanced suspension systems absorbing road imperfections with remarkable grace. The cabin remains remarkably quiet, with road, wind, and engine noise effectively silenced, contributing to a tranquil driving environment.

On the highway, the GLS truly shines. The powerful engines provide effortless acceleration, allowing for easy overtaking. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures stability and confidence, particularly in adverse weather conditions. When equipped with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, the GLS exhibits minimal body roll in corners, maintaining a level and composed stance, almost defying its considerable size and height. The available driver assistance systems further enhance the experience, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.

Who is the Mercedes-Benz GLS For?

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is not for everyone, but for the right owner, it’s an almost perfect fit. It’s ideally suited for:

Families: Those who need generous seating for up to seven passengers, ample cargo space, and a safe, comfortable environment for children and adults alike.
Executives & Business Professionals: Individuals who require a commanding presence, sophisticated styling, and a luxurious, technologically advanced cabin for arriving in style or conducting business on the go.
Long-Distance Travelers: Drivers who frequently embark on road trips and demand the highest levels of comfort, quietness, and advanced driver assistance features to make journeys relaxing and safe.
Luxury SUV Buyers: Enthusiasts who appreciate the ultimate in German engineering, refined interiors, and a badge that signifies status and quality.
Those Transitioning from Sedans: Drivers who love the luxury and comfort of a flagship sedan like the S-Class but need the added practicality and versatility of an SUV.

Key Competitors to Consider

While the GLS is a leader, it faces stiff competition from other manufacturers producing exceptional full-size luxury SUVs. Understanding these alternatives can help solidify your decision:

BMW X7: Often considered the GLS’s most direct rival, the X7 offers a sportier driving dynamic and a similarly luxurious interior with advanced technology.
Cadillac Escalade: Known for its bold styling, massive interior screens, and powerful V8 engine, the Escalade offers American luxury with a strong presence.
Lincoln Navigator: The Navigator offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, a powerful V6 engine, and a more traditional, American take on luxury.
* Land Rover Range Rover: While perhaps more focused on off-road prowess and unique luxury, the Range Rover is a highly capable and opulent choice.

Each competitor offers a slightly different flavor of luxury and performance, making it worthwhile to compare them directly based on your priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the main difference between the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the GLE?
A1: The GLS is Mercedes-Benz’s flagship full-size SUV, offering more interior space, a standard third row of seating (accommodating up to seven people), and a generally higher level of luxury and advanced features. The GLE is a mid-size luxury SUV, typically seating five people, though some configurations offer a smaller, optional third row. Think of the GLS as the S-Class of SUVs and the GLE as the E-Class of SUVs.

Q2: How many people can the Mercedes-Benz GLS seat?
A2: The Mercedes-Benz GLS is designed to seat up to seven passengers in three rows of seating. The second row typically accommodates three passengers, and the third row can seat two.

Q3: Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS good in snow or bad weather?
A3: Yes, the GLS is excellent in snow and bad weather thanks to its standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which distributes power to the wheels with the most grip. Its higher ground clearance also helps it drive over snow-covered roads. Some models offer specialized driving modes within their DYNAMIC SELECT system that can optimize performance for slippery conditions.

Q4: What does “EQ Boost” mean on the GLS?
A4: EQ Boost refers to Mercedes-Benz’s mild-hybrid technology. It uses an integrated starter-generator powered by a 48-volt battery system. This system provides a temporary boost of horsepower and torque for smoother acceleration, quicker responsiveness, and allows for functions like “gliding” (engine off) to improve fuel efficiency. It smooths out the start-stop function and enhances overall driving refinement.

Q5: Is the third row of the GLS usable for adults?
A5: Yes, the third row of the Mercedes-Benz GLS is designed to be more accommodating for adults than in many other 7-seater SUVs. It offers decent legroom and headroom, especially with the ability to recline the seats, making it quite comfortable for shorter journeys or even longer trips for many adults.

Q6: What kind of luxury features can I expect in a Mercedes-Benz GLS?
A6: You can expect extensive luxury features, including premium leather upholstery (often Nappa leather), exquisite wood or metal trim options, multi-zone climate control, seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ambient interior lighting with numerous color choices, a sophisticated MBUX infotainment system with large displays, a premium sound system, and advanced driver assistance technologies for comfort and safety.

Q7: How does the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension work, and is it worth it?
A7: E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL is an advanced, semi-active suspension system that individually controls the spring force and damping for each wheel. It uses a stereo camera to scan the road surface ahead and preemptively adjusts the suspension to counteract bumps and body roll. It can make the ride incredibly flat and composed, minimizing the sensation of uneven terrain. For those prioritizing ultimate ride comfort and a gliding sensation, it is considered a highly desirable, albeit costly, option.

Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Luxury SUVracticality

The Mercedes-Benz GLS truly embodies its reputation as the “S-Class of SUVs.” It’s a masterful blend of commanding presence, opulent luxury, cutting-edge technology, and effortless performance. From its elegant exterior design that projects undeniable prestige to its meticulously crafted interior sanctuary, every aspect of the GLS is engineered to provide an exceptional experience.

Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a cross-country road trip, or simply seeking a comfortable and safe haven for your family, the GLS rises to the occasion. Its powerful yet refined powertrains, coupled with advanced chassis technology like the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, ensure a ride that is both supremely comfortable and remarkably dynamic. The MBUX infotainment system keeps you connected and in control with intuitive voice commands and stunning visual interfaces.

For those who demand the very best in a full-size luxury SUV – prioritizing space, comfort, technology, and refined driving dynamics – the Mercedes-Benz GLS stands as a clear, compelling, and undeniably effortless choice.