2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63

Price Range: $139,000 ^{Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.}

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63 4dr SUV Exterior

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The GLS quickly impresses with its excellent combination of comfort, performance and technology. It takes everything we enjoy about the top-rated GLE SUV and puts it into a larger, more potent package, and it might just be one of the most well-rounded vehicles on sale today.Read full review

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by Edmunds Test Team

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Review

byDan Frio^{Correspondent
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.}

Pros

Easily seats adults in all three rows
Plenty of helpful technology and safety features
Responsive engines and stable handling give the feel of driving a smaller SUV
Flexible cargo capacity

Cons

Some interior controls and buttons are too small or hard to find

What's new

Panoramic sunroof and metallic paint now standard
Part of the third GLS generation introduced for 2020

Overview

Ask a few people their idea of a Mercedes-Benz SUV and there's a good chance the tall boxy G-Class, or G-wagen, comes up. It's hard to deny the G-wagen's presence in pop and celebrity culture, but ultimately, it's just a well-dressed utility truck. For maximum Mercedes SUV luxury, turn to the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS. While the G-Class specializes in off-road capability and social currency, and the Maybach GLS (reviewed elsewhere on Edmunds) takes luxury to extremes, the GLS is all about executive-class comfort and convenience.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.90 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$300/mo

$224/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

With a standard adaptive air suspension and lush cabin, the GLS is a VIP hotel suite on wheels, offering strong V6 and V8 engines capable of moving its quiet mass with authority. Not much changes for the 2023 model, except for a newly standard panoramic sunroof, another in a long list of generous standard features included with the "base" model GLS 450.

There's robust competition among three-row luxury SUVs, including the BMW X7, Infiniti QX80 and the Lexus LX 600. But the GLS also competes for attention with the Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon Denali, Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Lincoln Navigator. The recently redesigned Land Rover Range Rover added a third row of seats, making it a top rival as well, although it's priced closer to the AMG GLS version. Check out our test team's Expert Rating to see our evaluation of the GLS' comfort, technology features and more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Great

8.6

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.5/10

How does the GLS-Class drive? The raw numbers are frankly astounding and, on paper, suggest a much smaller and far sportier vehicle. Our GLS 450 test vehicle sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is more than adequate for a luxury SUV with a base engine. It feels strong too, no matter what situation you're driving in. The engine's mild hybrid system improves both performance and efficiency and makes for super-smooth power delivery. Our biggest complaint: occasional hiccups from the transmission.

Stops from 60 mph came in just 105 feet, one of the best results we've seen from any SUV. That's genuine performance-car territory. Part of that comes courtesy of the no-cost summer tires that our test SUV had, which help provide plenty lateral grip too. The steering is light and makes the GLS easy to maneuver in a parking lot or in traffic.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the GLS-Class? Mercedes-Benz nailed it when it comes to on-road comfort. The seats are supportive and hugely adjustable, and optional massagers help keep you comfortable after a few hours behind the wheel. The heated and ventilated seats work well, and the automatic climate control quickly evens out cabin temperatures.

There's little intrusion from the outside world, with just a bit of road noise on rough pavement. The ride quality is excellent with the optional E-Active Body Control suspension. It's smooth and composed, ironing out most road imperfections without floating or wallowing. Large wheels can hurt ride quality in many SUVs, but our test vehicle with optional 21-inch wheels didn't seem fazed.

Interior

9/10

How’s the interior? The GLS' interior is excellent from almost every perspective. The driving position is upright and commanding, but you always feel comfortably ensconced in the GLS. There's plenty of room in all three rows, and 6-foot-plus adults can fit comfortably in the easy-to-access third row. The large windows help all-around visibility and make passengers in the rear feel less claustrophobic.

The controls are all well placed and easy to reach, but there's a lot of them and the small text means you have to take your eyes off the road until you work up the muscle memory. Separating the seat controls between the door and the infotainment system is a bit frustrating too.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Save as much as $18,585 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $18,585 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG GLS 63 trim.}

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63 pricing in Ashburn, VA

Edmunds suggests you pay

Build & Price

Technology

9.5/10

How’s the tech? Mercedes' infotainment system is a marvel and benchmark for the class even if the learning curve is a bit steep. The navigation system in particular is a standout, and the augmented reality overlay and turn-by-turn directions in the instrument cluster and head-up display are compelling reasons to ditch the apps on your phone. That said, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. All three rows have USB-C ports, and a standard wireless charging pad sits in front of the cupholders.

The driver aids are equally impressive. The adaptive cruise control is among the best we've tested. In traffic, the system maintains a reasonable gap and can slow the GLS down to a complete stop, then start going again when traffic moves.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? With the seats down, the GLS' cargo area offers up to 84.7 cubic feet of cargo area behind the front seats. Space drops to 17.4 cubes with all the rows upright, which isn't enough to haul luggage for every passenger. Space is decent enough for the class, though the GLS trails the cavernous Navigator, which offers up 103.3 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The second and third row seats fold flat and can be dropped with buttons in the hatch. Small-item storage is great, with lots of pockets, bins and cupholders spread throughout the cabin. The GLS 450 is rated to tow 7,700 pounds, which places it ahead of its main rival, the BMW X7. Should towing be a high priority, the Lincoln Navigator is again superior, capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Fuel Economy

8/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA puts fuel economy at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway), impressive numbers for a vehicle this big and capable. On our evaluation loop, our test GLS got 21 mpg. The GLS returned 19 mpg over extended driving distances through mixed traffic and loaded with passengers and cargo.

Value

8/10

Is the GLS-Class a good value? The GLS isn't cheap, but nothing at this price point can match its impressive build quality. Options can add up quickly, but the GLS is no worse than other luxury SUVs. No other competitor puts together such a well-appointed package for less money. The four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is average for the class.

Wildcard

8.5/10

The GLS delivers everything you expect from a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. It packs a clean, understated design, and it's loaded with the latest and greatest tech. Luxury vehicles shouldn't make you work, and the engine provides smooth, effortless power. It sounds good too, especially at full acceleration. It's easy to drive and just a generally nice place to spend an hour or 10 behind the wheel.

Which GLS-Class does Edmunds recommend?

The GLS 580 and AMG GLS 63 are tempting, but we think the GLS 450 would satisfy most people. It costs substantially less than the higher trims and comes with a powerful and efficient turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Standard all-wheel drive and air suspension deliver refined ride comfort and good performance in a variety of situations. We also like the base model's 20-inch wheels, which contribute to a smooth ride. With the savings, you can add plenty of à la carte extras better tailored to your needs.

Compare 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class models

The seven-passenger, three-row 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS comes in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580 and AMG GLS 63. Each includes a generous list of standard features, and the main reason to choose a GLS 580 or AMG GLS 63 is for added power and performance. An even more opulent Maybach GLS is also available and is reviewed separately on Edmunds.

GLS 450
Highlights of the standard GLS include:

Turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine (362 horsepower, 369 lb-ft)
Nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
4Matic all-wheel drive
Adaptive air suspension system (can raise or lower the SUV's ride height and adjust to improve ride comfort and handling)
20-inch alloy wheels
Panoramic sunroof
Automatic high-beam headlights
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Power-folding exterior mirrors
Hands-free liftgate

Inside, the GLS 450 comes with:

Customizable ambient interior lighting
Four-zone automatic climate control
Synthetic leather upholstery (MB-Tex)
Power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
Power-adjustable front seats with memory
Heated and ventilated front seats
Power-folding 50/50-split third-row seat
Digital instrumentation
Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen
Natural language voice control
Navigation system
Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless charging pad
Nine USB ports
115-volt AC power outlet
Burmester surround-sound system

Safety features for every GLS include:

Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the GLS and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)

GLS 580
Choosing the GLS 580 adds the following features:

Turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (483 hp, 516 lb-ft)
21-inch alloy wheels
Illuminated running boards
Soft-close doors (catch as they're being closed and gently pull shut)
Five-zone climate control
Leather upholstery
Upgraded multi-contour front seats with massage

AMG GLS 63
The burly AMG GLS 63 comes with:

More powerful twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (603 hp, 627 lb-ft)
Performance-tuned:

Nine-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel-drive system
Air suspension with active roll stabilization
Steering, braking and exhaust systems

Adaptive LED headlights
Performance steering wheel with driving mode controls
Heated and cooled front cupholders
Blind-spot intervention (automatically steers the car back into its lane if you try to change lanes while a car is in the vehicle's blind spot)
Lane keeping assistance (steers the GLS back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)

Mercedes offers several option packages and stand-alone extras for the GLS. One of the most popular upgrades is the Driver Assistance Package Plus. It includes:

Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Mercedes and the car in front)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Evasive steering assistance (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
Front cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle or pedestrian ahead of you is about to cross your path while you're approaching an intersection)
Active lane change assistance (with adaptive cruise control engaged, can change lanes automatically after the driver activates turn signal)

If you live where it's cold, you might consider the Warmth & Comfort package, which adds:

Rapid-heating front seats
Heated front and second-row armrests

Choose the seven-seater GLS 580 and you can add the Executive Rear Seat Package Plus. It comes with:

Heated and ventilated second-row seats
Upgraded multi-contour rear seats with massage
Second-row wireless charger
Second-row tablet to control climate, seats and infotainment

The GLS 580 can also be equipped with the Off-Road package to gain:

Fully variable 4Matic all-wheel drive
Low-range transmission gearing
Off-Road+ driving mode
Off-road tuning for antilock braking and traction control systems
Hill descent control (automatically controls vehicle speed on steep hills)
Underbody damage protection

Additional options for the GLS include:

E-Active Body Control (upgraded suspension that can lean the GLS into turns to improve passenger comfort; GLS 580 only)
Second-row captain's chairs (six-passenger capacity)
Heated third-row seats
Power rear side-window sunshades
Air Balance interior fragrance system
Increased cabin insulation from noise and solar heating (Acoustic Comfort package)
Heated steering wheel
Upgraded Burmester high-end sound system
Augmented reality for the navigation system (overlays instructions on a forward-looking camera view to help drivers see where to turn)
Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
Lane keeping assistance (steers the GLS back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Reviews

Owner Reviews

3.8

34 reviews

5(56%)

4(12%)

3(3%)

2(14%)

1(15%)

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2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class videos

These Are the Best SUVs of 2022-2023 | 2022-2023 Top SUVs | The SUVs We'd Buy in Each Class

NOTE: This video is about the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, but since the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

In the market for a brand-new SUV? Whether you're looking for small and affordable or large and in charge, Edmunds has you covered with our list of best-in-class SUVs for the 2022-2023 model year. From Honda to Mercedes to Volkswagen, our comprehensive list encompasses everything from…

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Features & Specs

Type:

AMG GLS 63

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$139,000
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	16 MPG
Cost to Drive	$300/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	17.4 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. BMW X7

If the Mercedes GLS has an archrival, it's the BMW X7. Arguably crafted using the same recipe as the GLS, the three-row X7 offers more chiseled looks and commanding road presence. It also delivers a bigger wallop of low-end power from its six-cylinder engine compared to the Mercedes. Choosing between the two comes down to personal preferences regarding design, colors, materials, driving dynamics and other factors.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class & BMW X7 features

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. Cadillac Escalade

The Escalade is America's enduring answer to big SUV luxury. In production since 1999, the Escalade and rival Lincoln Navigator are the origins of the modern-day luxury SUV species. (The Range Rover has a case but never offered three rows until recently.) The Cadillac looks more outsized next to the GLS than it really is. The Escalade is about 7 inches longer and 5 inches taller, but about the same width as the GLS, and its wheelbase (the distance between front and rear wheels) is actually shorter. The extra length gives the Cadillac more front passenger room and 8 more cubic feet of cargo space. Second-row passenger space is about the same in both cars.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class & Cadillac Escalade features

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. Lexus LX 600

The premier Lexus SUV received a thorough redesign last year, including a name change from LX 570 to LX 600. The LX 600 now shares its chassis design with the Toyota Tundra pickup, making it a legitimate off-road luxury alternative. Seat comfort and cabin serenity are excellent. But the LX doesn't feel as stable as the GLS, and its handling is dull and somewhat lifeless. The LX is also one of the higher-priced models in the segment.

Compare Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class & Lexus LX 600 features

Safety

Our experts’ favorite GLS-Class safety features:

Emergency Call Service: Standard and complimentary for as long as you own the GLS, this is an automatic collision notification system with an SOS emergency call button.
Pre-Safe Sound: When a collision is about to happen, Pre-Safe Sound emits a special tone through the stereo speakers to protect your hearing during the impact.
Active Emergency Stop Assist: When using adaptive cruise control and active lane keeping assist, this feature can recognize an unresponsive driver and bring the GLS to safe stop.

FAQ

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 GLS-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.6 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the GLS-Class has 17.4 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Learn more

What's new in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class:

Panoramic sunroof and metallic paint now standard
Part of the third GLS generation introduced for 2020

Learn more

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class reliable?

To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the GLS-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the GLS-Class's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 GLS-Class and gave it a 8.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 GLS-Class is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

The least-expensive 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $139,000.

Other versions include:

AMG GLS 63 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) which starts at $139,000

Learn more

What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the next question is, which GLS-Class model is right for you? GLS-Class variants include AMG GLS 63 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A). For a full list of GLS-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class AMG GLS 63

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Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Video Shorts

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Review

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Overview

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Performance

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Interior

Save as much as $18,585 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $18,585 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG GLS 63 trim.

Edmunds suggests you pay

Technology

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Wildcard

Which GLS-Class does Edmunds recommend?

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class models

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Reviews

Owner Reviews

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2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class videos

These Are the Best SUVs of 2022-2023 | 2022-2023 Top SUVs | The SUVs We'd Buy in Each Class

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class Features & Specs

Compare the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. BMW X7

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. Cadillac Escalade

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class vs. Lexus LX 600

Safety

Our experts’ favorite GLS-Class safety features:

FAQ

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class a good car?

What's new in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class reliable?

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class?

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Save as much as $18,585 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $18,585 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG GLS 63 trim.}