2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Review

Although Mercedes-Benz's GLE, GLC and G-Class SUVs get the lion's share of attention, the venerable 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS is the quiet but capable workhorse of the fleet. Unlike its stablemates, the GLS' roomy interior can carry up to seven adults in plush comfort. You can configure it with power-folding second-row seats for easy access to the third-row seat or, for cargo-carrying versatility, simply fold the seatbacks forward to fit up to 93.8 cubic feet of stuff. For large family duty, only a Sprinter van can do more from the Mercedes family.

But there are reasons the GLS doesn't get much hype. Its design is dated, which is most apparent on the technology front. Compared to Mercedes' other new models that feature the brand's latest MBUX infotainment control system, the GLS is still stuck with the older rotary-knob based system. Instead of large and colorful digital displays, you're presented with one display of moderate resolution, a bunch of fiddly buttons and a few knobs. In stark contrast, Audi has been constantly updating its Q7, and BMW has introduced its all-new seven-passenger BMW X7.

Some buyers will also hesitate on the GLS' price. Standard equipment is a little underwhelming, so you'll likely need to add a fair number of options to get the GLS up to a suitable level of luxury. But the 2019 GLS' ability to provide massive space and impressive passenger comfort keeps it in the running if you're buying a large luxury SUV.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a seven-passenger large luxury SUV that's offered in three models. The GLS 450 is the base model that's well-equipped but doesn't include many of the higher-end features you might expect in a luxury SUV. The GLS 550 ups the power and includes many features that are optional on the GLS 450. Finally, performance aficionados will be drawn to the ultra-powerful AMG GLS 63. All three feature standard all-wheel drive.

The GLS 450 comes with a turbocharged V6 engine (362 horsepower, 369 pound-feet), 19-inch wheels, a self-leveling air suspension, power-folding and auto-dimming side mirrors, roof rails, a power liftgate, and Mbrace Connect remote vehicle access (via smartphone app; includes remote start).

Interior highlights include simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, driver-seat memory functions, a power-adjustable steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch central display, Bluetooth, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, and a sound system that features dual USB ports.

An available Premium package adds keyless entry and ignition, a power front passenger seat with memory settings, lighted doorsills and multicolor ambient lighting, a navigation system, voice controls, a larger 8-inch central display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and satellite radio. Lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring are also included.

The Lighting package bundles adaptive LED headlights and automatic high beams. You can get additional safety features from the Parking Assist package that includes parking sensors, an automated parallel parking system and a surround-view camera system. Also available are three-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and multicontour front seats with a massaging feature.

The GLS 550 starts with all of the above as standard, but it uses a turbocharged V8 engine (449 hp, 516 lb-ft). It also adds 21-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, sporty exterior styling cues, soft-close doors and upgraded interior trim.

Optional items on both the GLS 450 and the GLS 550 include a panoramic sunroof, heated second-row seats, diamond-quilted leather upholstery, and the Driver Assistance package (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and front and rear collision mitigation). Also available is an Off-Road package that includes an upgraded multimode terrain selector, a dual-range transfer case and front underbody protection; on the GLS 450, it also adds the GLS 550's standard adaptive dampers. For 2019, a Grand Edition package pads on upgraded leather seating surfaces and, for the GLS 450, a few features that are otherwise optional.

The high-performance AMG GLS 63 starts with most of the above and is equipped with an even more powerful turbocharged V8 (577 hp, 561 lb-ft), exclusive 21-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, adaptive stabilizer bars (the Active Curve System in Mercedes-speak), AMG-specific styling elements inside and out, enhanced bolstering for the front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, and a flat-bottom sport steering wheel.

Other GLS options include a trailer hitch, a heated steering wheel, power-sliding second-row seats for improved third-row access, rear side-window sunshades, a rear entertainment system, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.