The GL gets a boost in luxe, but the S remains relative
What is it?
With the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS, Mercedes gives its already-outstanding GL-Class SUV a mid-cycle refresh with a more refined interior, some new sheet metal and a new name. Already among our favorite vehicles in the luxe-SUV segment (or any other, for that matter), the big Benz impresses as a seven-seater that actually fits seven adults, all while towing a boat, without feeling floaty and underdamped.
The downside is that with the rear seats down, space is ample, but with the seats up, you’ll be hard-pressed to fit more than a couple of suitcases. Those thinking a GLS will replace the family Suburban will need to carefully evaluate passenger and space requirements.
On the exterior, the refresh is minor over the old GL, but does include new sheetmetal ahead of the A-pillar and a restyled rear bumper. The new front fascia looks sportier than the outgoing model, and the available AMG version takes that to the next level with an even more exaggerated look.
Like any other Mercedes, this Benz can be stuffed with as many options as your wallet can stand. Adaptive cruise control with steering control, blind-spot assist and lane-keeping assist will set you back handsomely, but standard features like crosswind assist and collision warning with autonomous braking help even the base GLS feel up to date.
What’s it like to drive?
Tipping the scales at more than 2.5 tons, you would expect the GLS-Class to be a luxurious lumbering barge with little concern for finesse. However, those thoughts are quickly put to rest when you get behind the wheel -- the GLS stays flat throughout corners and doesn’t dip its nose under heavy braking. The standard computer controlled air suspension performs as well as we’ve come to expect from Mercedes Airmatic, maintaining a comfortable, isolated ride without sacrificing handling.
Under the hood of the GLS450 is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that churns out 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the GLS550 nets buyers a twin-turbocharged V8 with 449 hp, while the AMG GLS63 gets the same engine tuned to 577 hp. Mercedes-Benz also delivers for its loyal diesel following with a V6 turbodiesel under the hood of the GLS350d. The oilburner delivers 255 hp and 455 ft-lb of torque, and won’t actually roll coal -- unlike certain other German diesel engines.
The only available transmission in non-AMG GLS models is the new 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic; AMG GLS63 models continue to use the 7g-tronic speedshift seven-speed auto -- a transmission that should help make this full-sized SUV feel considerably more sporty.
Much like other offerings from Mercedes, the GLS heavily relies on its Dynamic Select system to dictate performance. Sport, comfort, slippery, off-road, individual mode and the optional off-road-plus each deliver different suspension and throttle settings for expected driving styles.
In sport mode, the GLS450 stiffens up the steering, provides a more responsive throttle and drops the ride height. While this might be handy on dry pavement in warm conditions, it only proved to be too much for our slick mountain road driving; when traction was available, the GLS was peppy in sport mode. The shifts are on the softer side, but that’s to be expected with a luxury SUV.
Slippery mode delays throttle response, despite where we put our foot, helping us better control traction. This does feel alien at first, but it becomes familiar quickly and helps manage treacherous conditions like those that earlier left us sliding around aimlessly.
Comfort mode is what you’d imagine -- the air ride pumps up and the road more or less disappears. The steering becomes light and we doubt you’d feel much fatigue over a long trip.
The inclusion of an off-road mode is interesting, considering the average GLS probably won’t see too much time off-pavement. In the snow, off-road mode seems to work similarly to slippery mode, but offers slightly more control over the throttle. None of the testers we drove were equipped with the plus version of off-road mode, but we’re looking forward to a real trail drive where we can test that option.
Aside from actual driving characteristics, the GLS has a few nuances that should make it attractive. For as large as this Mercedes is, visibility is good: unlike huge 'utes like the Infiniti QX80 and Cadillac Escalade. However, there are blind spots over your shoulders. The mirrors do a sufficient job to alleviate this void in sight, but you’ll be thanking yourself for springing for blind-spot detection.
Do I want it?
For a seven-seat luxury SUV, the GLS handles more like a large sedan than a truck. Unlike the Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80, and the Lexus LX – this Mercedes feels smaller than it is when you get behind the wheel.
But what of the all-important luxury trimmings? The GLS is luxurious, but it’s a long way from the S-Class with which it shares a letter. Competitive barges like the Infiniti QX and Escalade actually deliver a more premium interior feel, but at the expense of the GLS’ superb ride and handling and refined exterior design, plus its plethora of engine choices.
Driving the new GLS, we’re reminded of why we were so sad to see our long-term GL350 Bluetec leave the fleet; the name change has done nothing to dampen our enthusiasm for this big Mercedes.
As for pricing, official numbers have yet to be released, but its safe to assume that this won't be too far away from previous model's price point. The current base 'Benz GL350d comes in at around $65K, and the GL450 is about a grand more. The SUVs hit dealers next spring.
