The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS represents a new generation for Benz's biggest luxury hauler. The outgoing Mercedes GLS was getting long in the tooth, especially when compared to models from BMW, Audi and more. But for 2020, it's new, and we mean totally new.
For starters, the GLS' chassis is longer and the body more aerodynamic, which translates into more room and a quieter, more efficient ride. And unlike most three-row SUVs, the new GLS can comfortably seat adults in all three rows. It also comes standard with an adjustable air suspension that offers a supple ride.
Both of the GLS' available engines are responsive and powerful. All-wheel drive is standard, and when equipped with the Off-Road package, the GLS features true low-range gearing for when the trail gets tough. Few SUVs are as good at combining off-road capability, cargo-carrying flexibility and passenger comfort as the Mercedes-Benz GLS. But the cherry on the cake for 2020? It comes with MBUX, Mercedes' latest infotainment system and one of the best in the business, and envelops passengers in a quiet and comfortable ride. The GLS seals the deal as one of our favorites.
How does the GLS-Class drive? The raw numbers are frankly astounding and, on paper, suggest a much smaller and far sportier vehicle. A 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds with the base turbo inline-six is more than adequate. It feels strong too, no matter what situation you're driving in. The engine's mild hybrid system improves both performance and efficiency and makes for super-smooth power delivery. Occasional hiccups from the transmission are our biggest complaint.
Stops from 60 mph came in just 105 feet, one of the best results we've seen from any SUV. That's genuine performance-car territory. Part of that is down to the no-cost summer tires, which help provide plenty lateral grip too. The steering is light and makes the GLS easy to maneuver in a parking lot or in traffic.
How comfortable is the GLS-Class? Mercedes-Benz nailed it when it comes to on-road comfort. The seats are supportive and hugely adjustable, and optional massagers help keep you comfortable after a few hours behind the wheel. The heated and ventilated seats work well, and the automatic climate control quickly evens out cabin temperatures.
There's little intrusion from the outside world, with just a bit of road noise on rough pavement. With the optional E-Active Body Control suspension, ride quality is excellent. It's smooth and composed, ironing out most road imperfections without floating or wallowing. Large wheels can hurt ride quality in many SUVs, but our test vehicle with optional 21-inch wheels didn't seem fazed.
How’s the interior? The GLS' interior is excellent from almost every perspective. The driving position is upright and commanding, but you always feel comfortably ensconced in the GLS. There's plenty of room in all three rows; 6-foot-plus adults can fit comfortably in the easy-to-access third row. The large windows help all-around visibility and make passengers in the rear feel less claustrophobic.
The controls are all well placed and easy to reach, but there's a lot of them and the small text means you have to take your eyes off the road until you work up the muscle memory. Separating the seat controls between the door and the infotainment system is a bit frustrating too.
How’s the tech? Mercedes' infotainment system is a marvel and benchmark for the class even if the learning curve is a bit steep. The navigation system in particular is a standout, and the augmented reality overlay and turn-by-turn directions in the instrument cluster and head-up display are compelling reasons to ditch the apps on your phone. That said, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. All three rows have USB-C ports, and a standard wireless charging pad sits in front of the cupholders.
The driver aids are equally impressive. The adaptive cruise control is among the best we've tested. In traffic, the system maintains a reasonable gap and can slow the GLS down to a complete stop, then start going again when traffic moves
How’s the storage? With the seats down, the GLS' cargo area offers up to 84.7 cubic feet of cargo area behind the front seats. Space drops to 17.4 cubes with all the rows upright, which isn't enough to haul luggage for every passenger. Space is decent enough for the class, though the GLS trails the cavernous Navigator, which offers up 103.3 cubic feet behind the front seats.
The second and third row seats fold flat and can be dropped with buttons in the hatch. Small-item storage is great, with lots of pockets, bins and cupholders spread throughout the cabin. The GLS 450 is rated to tow 7,700 pounds, which places it ahead of its main rival, the BMW X7. Should towing be a high priority, the Lincoln Navigator is again superior, capable of towing 8,300 pounds.
How’s the fuel economy? EPA puts fuel economy at 21 mpg combined (19 city/23 highway), impressive numbers for a vehicle this big and capable. On our evaluation loop, the GLS matched the 21 mpg combined rating. The GLS returned 19 mpg over extended driving distances through mixed traffic and loaded with passengers and cargo.
Is the GLS-Class a good value? The GLS isn't cheap, but nothing at this price point can match its impressive build quality. Options can add up quickly, but the GLS is no worse than other luxury SUVs. No other competitor puts together such a well-appointed package for less money. The four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is average for the class.
The GLS delivers everything you expect from a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. It packs a clean, understated design, and it's loaded with the latest and greatest tech. Luxury vehicles shouldn't make you work, and the engine provides smooth, effortless power. It sounds good too, especially at full acceleration. It's easy to drive and just a generally nice place to spend an hour or 10 behind the wheel.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is available in two trims largely differentiated by their engines. While we enjoy the GLS 580's powerful V8 engine, we suggest going for the GLS 450 with its turbocharged inline-six. It delivers more than enough performance and nets better fuel efficiency. It's also generally available with the same standard and optional features.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is available in two basic trims: the inline-six (362 horsepower, 369 lb-ft) powered GLS 450 and V8-powered (483 hp, 516 lb-ft) GLS 580. Both engines are paired to a nine-speed transmission and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Standard and optional features are largely the same between the two models — the biggest differences come down to price and performance.
Standard features on both the GLS 450 and the GLS 580 include Mercedes' new MBUX infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Burmester audio system, nine USB ports spread throughout the cabin, a wireless charging pad, LED lighting, keyless entry and ignition, blind-spot monitoring, active brake assist, and active parking assist with a surround-view camera. Both models come standard with seating for seven, but second-row captain's chairs for a six-seat layout can be had as a no-cost option.
The GLS comes well equipped from the start, but Mercedes offers a large list of options, both as individual features or bundled into packages. Highlights include the Convenience Package (four-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats), the Driver Assistance Package Plus (adaptive cruise control, active lane-change assist, lane keeping assist and cross-traffic alert) and the Executive Rear Seat Package Plus (heated and ventilated rear seats and wireless charging pad in the rear).
E-Active Body Control is a stand-alone option that swaps the GLS' air suspension for a trick active suspension that uses cameras to scan the road ahead and preadjust the suspension accordingly.
