Mercedes GLS Review: The Super-Sized Luxury SUV That Feels Like a Private Jet on Wheels
07.02.2026 - 22:07:41
There’s a moment every growing family or frequent traveler hits: when the airport run, the ski trip, or the everyday school commute feels like a game of human Tetris. Kids, friends, dog, stroller, luggage, sports gear—something always has to stay behind. And even if it somehow fits, the cabin is loud, the ride is choppy, and after two hours everyone steps out more exhausted than when they got in.
If you’ve been there, you know: space alone isn’t enough. You want comfort, quiet, real luxury, and tech that actually reduces stress instead of adding more menus to scroll through.
That’s where the Mercedes GLS comes in: Mercedes-Benz’s full-size, three-row luxury SUV that aims to be a rolling sanctuary as much as a status symbol.
Meet the Mercedes GLS: Mercedes’ "S-Class of SUVs"
The Mercedes GLS is positioned by Mercedes-Benz as the brand’s flagship SUV—the SUV equivalent of the S-Class sedan. Available in several variants depending on market (including GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and the ultra-opulent Mercedes-Maybach GLS), the GLS promises three things: real space for adults in all three rows, serious power, and a cabin experience that feels as carefully crafted as a high-end lounge.
On the official Mercedes-Benz GLS model page, Mercedes emphasizes comfort, connectivity, and confident performance, with options like air suspension, advanced driver assistance systems, and the latest MBUX infotainment generation (exact equipment varies by trim and market).
Why this specific model?
You have options in the full-size luxury SUV world—BMW X7, Audi Q7/Q8, Range Rover, Cadillac Escalade, Lexus LX, to name a few. So why would you choose the Mercedes GLS over its rivals?
1. Genuine three-row comfort
In discussions and owner reviews on Reddit and forums (searches for "Mercedes GLS review" and "Reddit Mercedes GLS" show recurring themes), one consistent point emerges: adults actually can sit in the third row without feeling punished. Owners mention that the second-row seats slide and recline, and the third row is usable for real people, not just kids—important if you’re using all seven seats regularly.
2. Quiet, plush ride with air suspension (on equipped models)
Many GLS configurations include an air suspension system (AIRMATIC or more advanced setups depending on model and options). Users and reviewers consistently praise the ride comfort: highway cruising feels calm, road imperfections are smoothed out, and cabin noise is impressively low. For long-distance travel, this is where the GLS starts to justify its premium.
3. Powerful engines with effortless acceleration
Depending on the variant and market, the GLS can be equipped with turbocharged petrol or diesel engines and, in some models, mild-hybrid assistance. Owners of the GLS 450 and GLS 580 on Reddit and enthusiast forums frequently highlight how easily the GLS accelerates and merges, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. This isn’t about sporty canyon carving; it’s about having deep, easy power that never feels strained.
4. MBUX infotainment and digital cockpit
Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system plays a central role in the GLS. According to the official Mercedes-Benz site, the GLS is equipped with the modern Mercedes-Benz user experience interface (specs and exact screen sizes vary by trim and model year). Real-world feedback is mixed but mostly positive: drivers appreciate the sharp displays and rich feature set but note that the learning curve can be steep and some controls are buried in menus. Over time, most owners report they grow into it and enjoy the customization and voice control.
5. A true luxury ambience
What many owners and reviewers mention—especially those cross-shopping with more utilitarian large SUVs—is that the GLS feels like a luxury vehicle first and an SUV second. Ambient lighting, high-quality materials, refined design, and careful sound insulation give it that “calm bubble” feeling inside. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS levels this up further with an even more opulent rear compartment focused on chauffeured comfort.
At a Glance: The Facts
Exact specifications differ by engine, trim, and market, but these are some of the key aspects frequently highlighted in official materials and reviews. Always check the latest configuration on the official Mercedes-Benz website for your region.
| Feature | User Benefit |
|---|---|
| Three-row seating layout (up to 7 seats, depending on configuration) | Room for family, friends, or business passengers without squeezing adults into child-sized spaces. |
| Available air suspension on many trims | Smoother ride and more composed handling, especially on rough roads and long highway drives. |
| MBUX infotainment system with large digital displays (varies by model) | Modern, visually rich interface with navigation, media, and connectivity features integrated in one place. |
| Powerful turbocharged engines (exact outputs vary by engine and market) | Confident acceleration and easy overtaking, even with passengers and luggage on board. |
| Advanced driver assistance systems (availability depends on equipment) | Systems such as adaptive cruise or lane assistance can reduce fatigue on long drives when equipped. |
| High-quality interior materials and ambient lighting (varies by trim) | Cabin feels upscale and relaxing, enhancing the sense of occasion for every trip. |
| Large cargo area with folding rear seats | Flexible space for luggage, sports gear, or bulky items when you don’t need all three rows. |
What Users Are Saying
Looking at owner feedback on Reddit and enthusiast forums for the Mercedes GLS, a clear pattern emerges.
Common praises:
- Comfort and quiet: Many owners describe the GLS as exceptionally comfortable, especially for highway driving and long trips. Road and wind noise are reported as well-controlled.
- Interior presence: The cabin design, lighting, and general ambience get high marks. Several owners say it “feels like an S-Class inside” in terms of luxury vibe.
- Power and smoothness: Drivers of six- and eight-cylinder GLS variants often comment on the smooth, effortless acceleration and refined engine note.
- Family practicality: People with kids appreciate the easy access to the third row (where equipped with power-folding and sliding seats) and the overall space.
Common criticisms:
- Complex tech: Some owners find MBUX and the array of settings overwhelming at first. There can be a learning curve to get everything configured the way you want.
- Running costs: As a large, premium SUV, the GLS can be expensive to fuel, insure, and maintain. Several owners mention that you should be prepared for luxury-level operating expenses.
- Reliability concerns (case-by-case): A minority of owners report issues such as software glitches or occasional squeaks/rattles, particularly on early production years. Experiences vary widely by individual vehicle and region.
Overall, sentiment skews positive: people who chose the GLS mainly for comfort, presence, and space generally feel it delivers on those promises when properly equipped.
Alternatives vs. Mercedes GLS
The full-size luxury SUV space is crowded. Here’s how the Mercedes GLS commonly stacks up against key rivals, based on public reviews and owner discussions:
- BMW X7: Often seen as the sportier alternative, with sharper handling and a more driver-focused feel. The GLS is typically perceived as more comfort-oriented and softer-riding.
- Audi Q7 / Q8: The Q7 is slightly smaller and often praised for interior tech and build quality but doesn’t offer the same sense of full-size space as the GLS. The Q8 is more of a stylish two-row SUV-coupe.
- Range Rover: The Range Rover emphasizes off-road heritage and a very upscale image. The GLS is usually considered more family-friendly and practical with three usable rows in most configurations.
- Cadillac Escalade / Lincoln Navigator: These American giants deliver massive space and bold styling, with a different design philosophy. The GLS tends to be quieter and more refined in ride and interior execution, while the Escalade can offer a larger, more imposing footprint.
- Lexus LX: The Lexus LX focuses on durability and off-road capability. The GLS leans toward on-road comfort and high-tech luxury; buyers prioritize different strengths.
In short, if you want the most athletic drive, you might lean BMW. If you want rugged capability, you might consider Lexus or Range Rover. If your priority is a cocoon of comfort, technology, and three-row space, the GLS sits very near the top of the list.
The Bigger Picture: Who Is the Mercedes GLS For?
The Mercedes GLS is built for drivers who don’t want to choose between space and sophistication. It’s for you if:
- You routinely carry five to seven people and want all of them to be genuinely comfortable.
- You value a calm, quiet cabin that makes long drives feel easy rather than exhausting.
- You appreciate modern tech and luxury details, even if it means taking some time to set everything up.
- You’re comfortable with premium purchase and running costs in exchange for a flagship experience.
Behind the GLS is Mercedes-Benz Group AG, the global company identified on the capital markets under ISIN: DE0007100000, which continues to position the GLS as a core part of its luxury and SUV strategy.
Final Verdict
The Mercedes GLS isn’t the loudest or flashiest SUV in the segment. Instead, it wins by doing something more subtle—and arguably harder. It makes every journey feel easier.
From the moment you close the door and the outside noise falls away, to the way the suspension glides over rough asphalt, to the simple fact that adults can sit in the third row without complaining, the GLS is engineered to remove friction from everyday life. Yes, the tech can feel dense, and yes, the costs—purchase and upkeep—are firmly in luxury territory. But if your life demands a lot of space and you refuse to give up comfort or refinement, the GLS is one of the most compelling choices on the road today.
If you’re ready to stop playing luggage Tetris, want your passengers to step out feeling rested, and appreciate the idea of an SUV that feels more like a private jet than a truck, the Mercedes GLS deserves a serious test drive.
