Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019) Review
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=640&height=426&rmode=crop)
Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019) At A Glance
Luxurious and spacious. One of the most comfortable big seven-seat 4x4 SUVs. Outrageous performance from GLS 63 AMG.
Expensive to buy and run. Difficult to park due to its colossal size. You have to pay extra for the off-road system.
Few big seven-seater 4x4 SUVs can match the size or grandeur of the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Designed and built in the USA, the supersized GLS is more than five metres long and sits two meters high. It also weighs a considerable 2.6 tonnes.
The second generation GL was launched in 2013 - and renamed as the GLS in 2015. You’d struggle to tell the GL part from the GLS though - both looking strikingly similar. That said if you look closely you'll see that the GLS gets some minor exterior tweaks, with a more upright front end and integrated LED running lights. The GLS appearance is also bolstered with 18-inch alloys as standard, while the optional wheels go up to 21-inches.
The interior is luxurious and cavernous, with an abundance of leather and aluminium trim. All seven-seats are comfortable and the GLS will easily carry seven adults. Each seat is finished in leather and the third row can be electronically adjusted or folded away. Boot space is 680 litres, but this can be increased to a maximum of 2300 litres, should you fold the second row of seats.
Up front, the GLS gets a vast dashboard, which is similar to the one found in the ML and features a large colour screen in the centre, which is user friendly with most of its functions controlled by the metal dial that's located on the centre console.
The engine line-up is limited to just two options - the 350 BlueTec diesel or the performance-focused 63 AMG. As you’d imagine, the diesel makes up the majority of sales. The 350 BlueTec uses the same direct injection 3.0-litre V6 engine as before, but with improved power. It's now up to 258PS and 620Nm of torque with claimed economy of 35.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 209g/km.
The GLS 63 AMG has the 5461cc twin turbo V8 (not the 6200cc AMG V8), delivering 557PS and 760Nm torque. Combined economy is 23mpg (though you'll only see this cruising at 70mph on a motorway), and emissions are 288g/km.
On the road the standard GLS 350 on 18-inch wheels is a quiet and refined seven-seater, but lacks any meaningful engagement, with numb steering and a choppy ride in windy conditions. The GLS also suffers from bodyroll, but this can be partly eliminated with the optional Active Curve system, with adjustable anti-roll bars.
The GLS 63 AMG on 21-inch wheels and tyres is an entirely different vehicle to drive, delivering massive performance and offering enormous pleasure, providing you are prepared to meet the fuel bills.
Reviews for Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019)'s top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019) handling and engines
- Engines range from GL 350 BlueTec to GLS 63 AMG
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 12–33 mpg
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is offered with two engines, the 350 BlueTec diesel or the performance-focused 63 AMG petrol, with the former making up the majority of sales. The diesel engine is almost identical to the unit found in the previous generation GL, but returns improved power with 258PS and 620Nm of torque. The 350 is also better on economy compared, with a claimed 35.3mpg and 209g/km of CO2.
For the most part, the V6 diesel works well, with sufficient pace and refined running. For sure, it's a little sluggish from the off, but it pulls well enough through the gears and has a quiet and refined operation. The V6 is linked to a seven-speed automatic transmission, which can also be operated manually via the steering wheel mounted paddles. However, in both modes, the gear changes are smooth and the gearbox seems to know which gear it needs when running in full auto, although like the engine it can be a little sluggish from a standstill.
The 63 AMG petrol takes things to another level, with a supercar rivalling 557PS and 760Nm of torque. As a result, the GLS will rocket to 62mph in under five seconds and be good for an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. To cope with the volcanic output, the V8 is linked to a seven-speed AMG sport auto ‘box, which lets the driver snap through the gears at a rapid rate. Unfortunately that power comes at a price, with fuel economy claimed at 23mpg. In real world driving, that figure will be closer to 13mpg.
Both the diesel and petrol versions are geared up for light off roading, with permanent four-wheel drive and adjustable air suspension, which lets the driver adjust the damping to suit the road surface. Diesel models can also be fitted with an optional off road package that lets the driver tailor the car’s set-up to tackle mud, sand, snow and towing. Admittedly, few drivers will use their cars for the rough stuff, but both the GL and GLS are competent off roaders.
Unfortunately on the open road, the GLS 350 BlueTec disappoints a little with numb steering and an abundance of bodyroll. Designed and built in the USA, the GLS stretches five metres in length and sits two metres high, which means it feels extremely large and unsuitable for UK roads. As a results, it is difficult to park and cumbersome to drive around town. The in-built reversing camera does help things somewhat, but the gargantuan dimensions result in constant problems, with many urban roads simply being too small.
The GLS 350 doesn't really improve out of town, with overpowered steering and a choppy ride in windy conditions. The ride can be improved by fitting the optional antiroll bars, but the GLS 350 never returns any meaningful engagement and as a result isn't enjoyable to drive.
If you can afford the fuel and find some open roads, the GLS 63 AMG will put a grin on your face from ear to ear as long as you avoid scaring yourself silly. The commanding driving position helps and, though you are aware of the danger of propelling 2.6 tonnes at huge speeds, especially when braking into unknown corners, the car is very stable and obedient.
Acceleration is extremely strong. And the AMG Drivers Pack lifts the top speed to 168mph, though that would probably be foolhardy, even on the autobahn. Ride is excellent, despite comparatively low profile 295/40 ZR 21 Continental tyres all round.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| GL 350 BlueTec | 36 mpg | 7.9 s | 205 g/km |
| GL 350 CDI | 36 mpg | 7.9 s | 209 g/km |
| GL 500 BlueEfficiency | - | 5.4 s | - |
| GL 63 AMG | 23 mpg | 4.9 s | 288 g/km |
| GLS 350 d | 35–37 mpg | 7.8 s | 199–203 g/km |
| GLS 400 | 26 mpg | 6.6 s | 248 g/km |
| GLS 63 AMG | 20 mpg | 4.6 s | 288 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
74%
Real MPG
12–33 mpg
MPGs submitted
32
Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019) interior
- Boot space is 680–2300 litres
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5120–5162 mm |
| Width | 2141 mm |
| Height | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3075 mm |
The interior of the GLS is modern, luxurious and cavernous. Over the past few years Mercedes-Benz has worked hard to improve its cabin architecture and the GL and GLS clearly benefit from this, with excellent build quality and a good, solid feel throughout.
All versions will easily accommodate seven adults; the front and second row of seats are comfortable, with deep leather cushioning and excellent back and upper leg support. The third row of seats are also suitable for long(ish) journeys, with electric adjustment and an optional motorised Easy-Entry system that makes it simple to get in and out.
Up front the driver gets a commanding view of the road, with good all round vision thanks to a huge windscreen and a pair of large wing mirrors. The dashboard is almost identical to the one found in the ML-Class, which means it is clear and easy to understand. The majority of the controls for the infotainment system are found in the centre console.
The centre console is dominated by seven-inch colour display, which is controlled by a metal dial controller on the centre console. The GLS gets a decent amount of infotainment kit as standard, with Bluetooth, navigation, DAB and iPod connectivity. The display for the parking camera is also shown on the colour screen and a 360° camera is available as a paid for option, should you need help to manoeuvre the GLS through tight spaces.
The lower centre console houses the controls for the GLS’s off-road systems, which are all clearly labelled and simple to understand. There’s also a leather armrest situated between the two front seats and a large storage compartment, which is ideal for hiding valuables. In fact, the GL is never short on storage, with a plethora of cubby holes, cup holders and pockets. Just be sure to remember where you’ve stored your stuff, because it’s easy to lose items in the vast interior.
If you spec up to AMG trim then the GLS gets more kit, with sport seats, AMG performance steering wheel and a dusting of racing decals. Mercedes-Benz also offers a number of options to spruce up the interior, with ambient lighting, sun blinds and multi-contour seats with a massage function.
Standard equipment levels:
GLS 350 BlueTec gets 21-inch alloy wheels, ambient lighting on underside of door mirrors, electric glass sunroof, xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lights, Active Light System, cornering light function, headlamp wash and Adaptive High Beam Assist, LED rear tail lights, automatic climate control, leather seats, Easy-Entry system - third seat row, left and right, metallic paint, Bluetooth and the COMAND Online system with Media Interface.
GLS 63 AMG comes with AMG bodystyling – front apron, rear apron, side skirts and flared wheel arches, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs, sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes, high-performance braking system with silver-painted brake calipers, AMG floor mats, AMG instrument cluster with animated start-up sequence and AMG main menu, AMG Performance steering wheel – 4-spoke multi-function, trimmed in nappa leather with perforated grip areas, flattened bottom section and silver-coloured gear shift paddles.
Mercedes-Benz GLS (2013 – 2019) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 5120–5162 mm |
| Width | 2141 mm |
| Height | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3075 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 2455–2580 kg |
| Boot Space | 680–2300 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / Unlimited miles |
| Servicing | 12500–15500 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £61,655–£106,870 |
| Insurance Groups | 49–50 |
| Road Tax Bands | J–M |
| Official MPG | 20.2–37.2 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | - |
On sale until November 2019
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GLS350d 3.0 AMG Line 9G-TRONIC 4MATIC 5dr | £73,940 | 35.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| GLS350d 3.0 Designo Line 9G tronic 4MATIC 5dr | £80,425 | 37.2 mpg | 7.8 s |
| GLS350d 3.0 Grand Edition 9G-TRONIC 4MATIC 5dr | £82,935 | 35.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| GLS400 3.0 AMG Line 9G-TRONIC 4MATIC 5dr | £73,090 | 26.2 mpg | 6.6 s |
| GLS400 3.0 Grand Edition 9G-TRONIC 4MATIC 5dr | £82,085 | 26.2 mpg | 6.6 s |
| GLS63 5.5 AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic 4MATIC 5dr | £106,870 | 20.2 mpg | 4.6 s |
On sale until July 2019
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GL350 3.0 CDI BlueTEC AMG Sport 7G-Tronic Plus 5dr | £61,665 | 36.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
| GL63 5.5 AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic 5dr | £94,755 | 23.0 mpg | 4.9 s |
On sale until October 2015
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 350 BlueTEC 258 AMG Sport Auto 5dr | £61,655 | 36.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 63 AMG 577 5dr Auto | £94,735 | 23.0 mpg | 4.9 s |
On sale until March 2013
| 4 X 4 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 500 BlueEFICIENCY 4MATIC 5dr | - | - | 5.4 s |
Model History
April 2012
The new GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz demonstrates leadership qualities in all the decisive SUV disciplines. Innovations such as the standard-specification Crosswind Assist, the STEER CONTROL steering assistance system, the load recognition and the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) increase active safety. Other new features to become optionally available are assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist, together with a parking package incorporating an automatic function for entering and exiting parking spaces, plus a 360° camera.
5,141mm long x 1,982mm wide (2,141mm inc mirrors) x 1,850mm high. 3,075mm wheelbase.
As part of its standard specification the GL is shod with attractive 10-spoke 18‑inch light-alloy wheels, and as an option wheels up to 53.3 cm (21 inches) are available. The tail end with two-piece LED tail lights featuring fibre optics, a large roof spoiler and the bumper in a contemporary “wing design” with a generously chromed underguard rounds off the befitting appearance of the luxurious full-size SUV.
Inside the dashboard continues the visual emphasis on the vehicle’s width. The modern instrument cluster with two easily legible round dials with a clear-cut design and a large 11.4 cm colour display between the instrument tubes featuring photo-realistic representation stands out, making a high-quality impression. Next to it a large, central colour screen for the infotainment system dominates on the dashboard.
Both the BlueTEC diesel unit for the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY with a charged, direct-injecting BlueDIRECT petrol engine offer impressive performance coupled with high efficiency. On average the new model range undercuts the preceding model series by 19 percent when it comes to consumption figures.
Today the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC with SCR technology and AdBlue injection already undercuts the EU 5 emissions standard which is planned for 2014. With a consumption of 38mpg (NEDC overall), the diesel model returns a 20 percent improvement over its predecessor.
With a CO2 figure of 192g/km the GL 350 BlueTEC achieves the best value in its power category. In spite of the considerably reduced energy requirement, performance is significantly increased. Whilst the maximum output of the first-generation GL 350 BlueTEC was 211 hp and the maximum torque 540Nm, the new model now boasts 258PS and 620Nm.
The GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY has an NEDC consumption of 25 mpg, making it the most fuel-efficient V8 petrol model in its class. A GL500 Bi-Turbo charged 4.6-litre BlueDIRECT engine with 408 hp is used here. The new generation returns an 18 percent improvement in efficiency and offers the best classification currently possible: EU 5.
Alongside the ultra-modern engine technology, a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures supports the superb fuel economy. In addition to the standard-specification ECO start/stop function, these include the new seven-stage automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC PLUS.
The optionally available ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM roll stabilisation works at the front and rear axle with active torsion-bar stabilisers and compensates for the roll angle during cornering; this significantly increases agility and driving pleasure. At the same time the system enhances handling, whilst even better ride comfort and extended off-road capabilities are also amongst the benefits of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM.
The GL is optimally equipped for tours off the beaten track. Alongside the permanent all-wheel drive system 4MATIC, its standard specification includes start-off assist, Downhill Speed Regulation DSR and a special off-road driving program. The ON&OFFROAD package for the new GL-Class has six driving programs for optimising driving dynamics and handling safety, as the optimum drive system control is provided for an extremely wide range of on-road and off-road operating conditions. In terms of “hardware”, the ON&OFFROAD package comprises an underguard, a two-stage transfer case with a low-range ratio, an inter-axle differential lock and enhanced AIRMATIC functionality that allows a maximum ground clearance of 285 millimetres and a fording depth of 600 millimetres.
November 2012
Specification anounced
The GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport, from £59,465 OTR, measures 21 mm longer and 10 mm taller that the model it replaces, and has a boot capacity increased by 60 litres.
Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have both improved for the new GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport, with a 15 per cent increase in combined fuel efficiency to 35.3mpg, and a 14 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions to 209g/km. The 2,987 cc vehicle generates 258PS and 620Nm of torque, and accelerates to 62mph in 7.9 seconds before achieving a top speed of 137 mph.
The GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport features significantly enhanced standard equipment over the previous generation vehicle, and now includes Intelligent Light System with bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights; AMG bodystyling; 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels; privacy glass; an electric glass sunroof; AirMATIC air suspension; Parktronic with Active Park Assist; and COMAND Online with media interface and DAB digital radio tuner.
In addition, the new generation GL-Class has seven seats with an Easy-Entry System, with the third row electrically folding and rising, allowing for greater access. There are also two new metallic paint colours for the GL-Class: Cavansite Blue and Cinnabar Red.
New comfort and safety features include Crosswind Assist, which works with the ESP sensor system to automatically intervene by braking to keep the car on course after a strong gust of crosswind. In addition, Collision Prevention Assist, which gives the driver a visual and acoustic warning if the set safety distance from the vehicle ahead or station obstacle narrows, is also available for the first time on the GL-Class.
Key optional equipment features include Parking Package with a 360° camera (£675); panoramic sliding sunroof with interior sun blind (£920); On- & Off-Road Package, which gives the driver a choice of six programmes to adapt the vehicle configuration to the current surface (£1,985 GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport only); designo Exclusive leather upholstery (£6,845 for GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport and £4,645 for GL 63 AMG); and Driving Assistance Package that includes Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane-Keeping Assist and Distronic Plus with Pre-SafeBrake (£2,350).
The all-new GL 63 AMG, from £91,680 OTR, features further enhanced specification over the GL 350 BlueTEC AMG Sport, with key exterior elements including flared wheel arches with 21-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels in Titanium Grey; AMG high-performance braking system; Active Curve System with AirMATIC, which compensates the roll angle of the vehicle body when driving round bends; and an AMG sports exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes.
The 5,461 cc GL 63 AMG generates 557PS, a massive 760Nm of torque, 288g/km of CO2and combined fuel consumption of 23.0mpg. It achieves 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 155mph (or 168 mph when the £2,820 AMG Drivers Pack is specified).
Inside, the GL 63 AMG highlights include an AMG Performance steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather with perforated grip areas, a flattened bottom section and silver-coloured gear shift paddles; AMG sports seats with AMG-specific seat design upholstered in leather; front and second row heated seats; Memory Package and multi-contour front seats with massage function; and luxury automatic climate control.
What to watch out for
Numerous faults reported with Mercedes Benz GLS purchased 'new' in March 2019 from MB dealer. On collection there were 4 points of PDI check not complied with. 1. No screen wash: the reservoir was bone dry. 2. At 300 miles an engine malfunction required a new NOx Sensor. 3. The air conditioning had no refrigerant gas in it. 4. The car had been damaged and very poorly repaired but not identified during PDI. Car is now 11 weeks old with 1,917 miles and on 11-602019 went in for the paint repair. (We think this could not be the 2019 model because that was not put on sale until May 2019.)
