2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 3rd generation Mercedes-Benz GLS utility arrived for 2020 with more space, more comfort, and more luxury than ever before. But staying at the top of the intensely competitive full-size luxury utility segment is not easy, so Benz is back making the GLS better than ever.

Mercedes-Benz didn’t get where they are today by just following trends or playing keep up. Regardless of vehicle segment, they have been constant innovators; bringing new technologies to market and continuously upgrading their products, which brings us to this 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS.

Starting inside, there are still 3-rows of seats for either 6 or 7 passengers depending on 2nd row configuration, with abundant space no matter which seat you’re occupying. Many materials inside have been updated, along with some new leather-based themes added. This is the Bahia Brown and Black which looks fantastic, and comes with aluminum trim, though a host of wood veneers are available including this Natural Grain Grey Oak.

The central 12.3-inch touchscreen is updated to the latest MBUX software, and the upgraded 12.3-inch driver display can provide information through Classic, Sporty, or Discreet themes.

Despite the wealth of information available on both screens, it’s all very intuitive to access, and navigation with augmented reality is standard.

The steering wheel is also new, and now comes with its own set of touch sensitive controls for better or worse, and USB charging ports have been added for rear seat passengers.

Cargo space remains plentiful as you would expect, starting with a good 17.4 cubic-ft. behind the 3rd row and 48.7 behind the 2nd row; fold all seats and you’ve got a cavernous 84.7 cubic-ft. A power folding 3rd row is standard, as is a power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, and 4-zone automatic climate controls.

There are powertrain upgrades too. The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 in this GLS 450 gets a bump from 362 to 375-horsepower with 369 lb-ft. of torque. Towing capacity is a stout 7,700-lbs. A 4.0-liter V8 is also available getting its own increase from 483 to 510-horsepower. Both come with mild-hybrid assistance, standard all-wheel-drive, and a 9-speed automatic transmission.

A refresh for the outside means a new grille with Silver Shadow finish, more prominent bumper, and a faux skid plate for the front…and new taillights with a “power of three” theme in back.

As before, AMG styling elements can be added, including unique wheel arches and up to 22-inch wheels. A Night Package adds additional black trim for the front splitter, roof rails and side mirrors.

So, it’s off to Mason Dixon Dragway to see what kind of difference a few extra ponies can make.

At the line, there was plenty of starting grip to transfer the hard-hitting power to the pavement. We really felt the tires bite and shove us off to 60 in just 5.5-seconds. There was a decided hunkering down at the line before exploding off it with excellent traction.

Power delivery stayed consistent throughout the ¼-mile with very smooth shifts that occurred with little to no drop-off in momentum. Making for a mostly quiet and pleasant 14.1-second trip to the end of the track, finishing at 99 miles-per-hour, with the notable exception of a great almost V8-like engine roar coming from under the hood.

In our handling course, the GLS 450’s 5,500-lbs. of weight became obvious right away with noticeable body roll. Steering was light and perhaps a bit disconnected feeling, but stability systems step in well before any problems can arise. Overall, it’s a very safe and secure handling vehicle for any family.

In panic braking runs, there was bit of a delayed reaction as the brake pedal seemed to go straight towards the floor with little response from the vehicle.

Until suddenly the calipers clamped down in full and brought this big beast to an aggressive halt from 60 in just 115-feet. A little unsettling feeling at first, but ultimately quite good results for such a big vehicle.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are 19-City, 24-Highway, and 21-Combined; we averaged 22.2 miles-per-gallon of Premium fuel.

That’s just slightly below average for the Energy Impact Score; consuming 14.2-barrels of oil yearly while emitting 7.1-tons of CO2.

Stick with this base 450 and you do get a lot of vehicle and plenty of luxury for $88,150. It’s a big step up from there to the actual V8-powered 580 which starts at $113,150; we really don’t see a need to make that leap unless you absolutely must have a V8.

When the 3rd generation GLS arrived 4-years ago it was a real game changer for the segment. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS doesn’t necessarily change the game this time around; but with updates to style, materials, powertrains, and tech; it makes sure that Mercedes-Benz continues to be the winner.