The Mercedes Benz GLS is offered in four basic flavors, each defined by their engines. The base model utilizes a 3.0L V6 turbo that runs on diesel. Capable of 255 hp and a monstrous 455 lb-ft of torque, the GLS350d should use significantly less fuel than any other trim level. The GLS450 also uses a 3.0L V6, though this one runs on gasoline and ups the number of turbochargers to two. It makes 362 hp. The GLS550 has a 4.7L twin-turbo V8 and produces 449 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. At the top of the GLS hierarchy is the performance oriented AMG GLS63, power gets upped to 577 hp, produced by a 5.5L V8 with twin-turbochargers. All GLS models use an advanced 9-speed automatic transmission which sends power to all four wheels.
Being a full sized luxury SUV means that GLS comes very well equipped even with no options added. Standard interior features on the GLS350d include MB-Tex seating surfaces, a power driver's seat with a memory function, heated front seats, shift paddles, an 8-inch high resolution touchscreen monitor, eucalyptus wood interior trim, Bluetooth connectivity, a five year subscription to Mercedes-Benz' mbrace Connect system, power folding rear seats, power folding side mirrors, a power tilt and telescoping steering column, a power liftgate and a power sunroof. Other standard features on the GLS include AIRMATIC suspension, 19-inch wheels, an active brake assist system, crosswind assist, a rearview camera and 11 airbags.

Of course it wouldn't be a Mercedes-Benz if the option list wasn't long enough to get the vehicle exactly as the buyer wants it. A parking assist package adds a 360 degree camera system as well as a system to park the vehicle with minimal input from the driver. A Premium 1 package adds multicolor interior lighting, a blind spot detection system, keyless entry and start, a memory system for the front passenger, SiriusXM satellite radio and better smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay. Stand alone options include a heated steering wheel, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, an air purification system, a rear seat entertainment system as well as a trailer hitch. All GLS models are capable of towing up to 7500 lbs with the trailer hitch.

Luxurious Interior, Sophisticated Exterior Styling, Mercedes-Benz Cachet, Seating For Up To Seven People, Quiet Ride, All-wheel Drive

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a brand new addition to the company's lineup for 2017. It's based on the old GL, which it replaces as the only true 7-passenger luxury SUV sold by Mercedes. Though the GLS looks similar to the old GL, a new front fascia with far more flowing lines keeps things modern. New headlights also help and do their part to make sure the GLS fits with Mercedes-Benz' current styling language. The interior has also been changed for the better with plenty of elbow and headroom for all passengers as well as updates to the various electronic and multimedia systems employed by the luxury SUV.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-sized luxury SUV, with an emphasis on style and comfort. As such it starts at just over $67,000, putting it in competition with other full-sized SUVs such as the Cadillac Escalade and the Lexus LX. The Mercedes-Benz offers a large degree of customization and engine options in that class, with the only true performance SUV offered amongst its seven passenger competition. While prices in this category are relatively high, the GLS actually offers a fair amount of value relative to its peers, for once buyers won't necessarily be paying a premium just to have a 3-pointed star at the front of their vehicle.