The Mercedes-Benz large sports utility vehicle (SUV) GLS is considered a model that emphasizes practicality with its luxuriousness and robustness while pursuing excellent driving performance and spacious interior.
On Nov. 1, I test drove the Benz GLS. This vehicle is the third-generation facelift model of the GLS launched in Korea in November 2023. The current GLS consists of a total of three lineup options: GLS 450 4MATIC, GLS 450 d 4MATIC, and GLS 580 4MATIC, with the test-driven vehicle being the gasoline model GLS 580 4MATIC.
The initial impression of the GLS was surprisingly plain. Although the GLS is often referred to as the 'S-Class of SUVs' due to its size, its exterior seemed somewhat distant from the luxuriousness of the S-Class large sedan.
However, the grand feeling has been greatly emphasized. The vehicle has a larger radiator grille compared to the existing third-generation GLS, with a prominent Mercedes-Benz tri-star emblem placed in the center. Conversely, the rear lights showcase a more streamlined image.
As expected from a Benz SUV, which is synonymous with luxury cars, there were no particular questions regarding its acceleration and driving performance. The GLS 580 4MATIC is equipped with a V8 gasoline engine (M177) that combines a mild hybrid system, delivering a maximum output of 557 horsepower and a peak torque of 78.5 kgf·m. It only takes 4.9 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h from a standstill.
Once I exited the city and entered the highway, pressing the accelerator pedal, the GLS smoothly picked up speed and took off. Even while changing directions several times on a winding track and increasing speed, it maintained stability, controlling the movement of the body without any tension.
The GLS features a second-generation infotainment system called 'MBUX'. There are two 11.6-inch high-definition touchscreens and a 7-inch detachable MBUX tablet in the rear seats, allowing passengers to use them.
The second-row seats in the rear have been equipped with a wide armrest and center console that can wirelessly charge mobile phones. Generally, SUVs focus convenience features on the front seats, including the driver's seat, while luxury sedans often prioritize convenience in the rear seats. The GLS evenly distributes various convenience features across both the first and second rows.
Space utilization was also high. In the case of the Maybach GLS, the cargo space is relatively small and there is no function to fold the rear seats. In contrast, the GLS can fold both the third and second-row seats, significantly increasing its cargo capacity.
However, there were some aspects that were somewhat disappointing in detail. While driving and entering multiple locations into the navigation system, it became unresponsive. The navigation suddenly malfunctioned, automatically inputting text without any interaction with the location search bar. The error was resolved only after I turned off the engine and restarted it after stopping.
The base price of the GLS 580 4MATIC is 180.1 million won. When adding detailed options, the price exceeds 200 million won.