2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV Review: Gentle Giant

Ever wanted all the style and luxury of an S-Class sedan but also the practicality of something like a Toyota RAV4? Well then, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Glass might be just what you're looking for - assuming you can look past that daunting price tag. This large luxury SUV is impressive to look upon, and it backs its good looks up with a capable turbocharged six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assistance. The setup delivers 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. The V8-powered GLS was discontinued in late 2021, but the automaker has said that it will make a comeback later in 2022. This may help Mercedes compete with the sportier BMW X7 and Audi Q7. But even in base guise, the GLS-Class is hard to beat in terms of luxury and refinement, but as things stand now, is it really the best luxury SUV out there?

What's the Price of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV?

Currently, there is only one model in the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV range. The GLS 450 has a starting price of $77,850, which is still quite a bit less than an S-Class sedan. By comparison, the base-level BMW X7 is slightly cheaper at $74,900. If you want a fully loaded GLS, expect to pay somewhere in the area of $100k, although the price of the GLS 580, when it's released later this year, is expected to be $101,250. These are MSRP figures and do not include miscellaneous fees or the $1,050 destination charge.

2022 GLS-Class SUV Exterior

Dimensions

2022 GLS-Class SUV Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

Mercedes-Benz vehicles are definitely biased towards comfort, but that doesn't mean they don't know how to have a little fun. That said, the GLS SUV is an enormous car and a hefty one at that. Don't expect it to be able to handle corners with a great deal of dexterity. Still, it can be engaging, especially with the V8 engine, if the 2021 GLS 580 is anything to go by. However, the BMW X7 is sportier, insofar as a vehicle this size can be. But, when it comes to leveling out the road and delivering a silky-smooth ride, the Mercedes is hard to beat. The adaptive suspension eats up bumps so well that passengers will never even know they were there. The standard AWD system ensures optimal traction, no matter the weather or condition of the road, so the driver will never want for confidence. If you do want to go off-roading, the suspension can be raised to a decent 8.5 inches. This won't let you go as far as a Land Rover might, but it should be enough for some light adventuring.

2022 GLS-Class SUV Interior

2022 GLS-Class SUV Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class A Good SUV?

Large, spacious, and practical SUVs are all the rage, so their luxury counterparts should be, too, right? Well, that would be true if they weren't so exorbitantly expensive. But if you have the money for it, there are few better ways to spend it than on a Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV. It's a powerful vehicle, especially in GLS 580 guise, but this model will only be available later in the year. So, does the GLS 450 have what it takes to carry the weight of the brand on its shoulders?

Looking at the list of features that come standard, it just might. MB-Tex leatherette may not be genuine leather, but it's still high quality, and the upgrade to the real deal is not very expensive. The safety suite is extensive, though at this price, the options could've been included. And the infotainment is more than adequate enough to keep everyone in the cabin happy. The GLS is also big enough to house seven, which is a boon in luxury vehicles. The standard cargo space is not all that great, but it's better than either of the Merc's direct competitors, the BMW X7 and Audi Q7.

In terms of ride comfort, the Mercedes GLS is hard to beat, and it can even go mildly off-road when the need arises, though it isn't nearly as capable as the likes of Land Rover Range Rover. It's not the most exciting driver but it still knows how to have fun. That's not where its strengths lie. It's a top-notch luxury people hauler that is well worth the money. Both the driver and their passengers will be hard-pressed to find anything to complain about.

What Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV Model Should I Buy?

Since we only have one model to choose from currently, it comes down to how you want to spec your GLS 450. The AMG Line is something you can overlook since the GLS is already quite an attractive car, and the larger 21-inch alloy wheels only hurt the ride quality. Inside, we do think the genuine leather upholstery is worth the minor increase in price and the six-seater layout is far more comfortable if you don't really need space for seven. In terms of packages, the Warmth & Comfort Package is definitely alluring, while the Driver Assistance Package Plus is a must. In this configuration, the GLS 450 will cost you $84,370 with the destination charge included. However, with its more potent twin-turbo V8 and access to more advanced features, the GLS 580 might be worth the wait until the second half of 2022.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV Comparisons

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV vs BMW X7

Regardless of configuration, the BMW X7 is always the quicker of the two SUVs. This is despite the fact that the inline-six under the X7's hood isn't quite as strong - developing 335 hp and 331 lb-ft. But speed isn't all it has on the GLS as it's also far more engaging to drive. However, the Mercedes is better-behaved on the road, smoothing over bumps more easily with its adaptive suspension. Comfort is also exemplified inside the cabin, with premium materials covering every surface and only the best tech installed as standard. While it won't matter to buyers in this segment, the X7 is slightly more frugal in terms of fuel economy, and it is marginally cheaper, too. Which of the two premium SUVs is better, though, is a more difficult question. If speed and driving engagement are more important to you, the X7 comes out on top, while the GLS wins out if you value comfort and sheer luxury more.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV

The smaller sibling of the GLS-Class, the GLE accommodates only five passengers in any real level of comfort, since the optional third-row seating package offers little in the way of passenger space. It's around $20k cheaper, so it wins if you want Mercedes luxury but can't afford the range-topper. Both SUVs also share the same turbocharged six-cylinder engine, so power is on par, although a lower-output 2.0-liter motor is the standard on the GLE. Since you're paying more, it should come as no surprise that the GLS gets a lot more standard features than the GLE. Lastly, the GLS is technically available with a stronger twin-turbocharged V8 engine, though that will only be coming later in 2022. If you only need seating for five, the GLE is a good compromise, but there is no denying that the GLS is simply more opulent and powerful.