Win an overnight stay in a suite at London’s Hotel Saint, with dinner and drinks

Test drive: A review of the Mercedes Benz GLS Class

By LLM Reporters   |  

As one of the most attractive and powerful vehicles worldwide, the Mercedes Benz GLS is the “S-Class of SUVs”. It combines refinement with relaxation and force. We take a closer look at this German heavyweight.

The Extra Ratios Mean Economy and Emissions Are Improved

The GLS comes in two engine options – 3.0-liter V6 diesel in the GLS350 and the AMG GLS63 featuring a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 petrol engine. Although the GLS still produces 255bhp, the newly integrated upgrades slightly reduce its fuel consumption and CO2 release levels, returning 37.2 mpg and emitting 199g/km of CO2. The GLS63 consumes 23 mpg and emits 288g/km of CO2. The tweaked engines improve this beauty’s consumption rates.

Like the GL before it, the new GLS is also setting standards in the world of the SUV as it confirms its position as the “S-Class among SUVs”

High-Performance Braking and Exhaust System And AMG-Embossed Sports Seats

The GLS takes the stress out of driving, providing high-performance safety and intelligent drive systems. In case dangerous conditions are detected and the driver brakes, the GLS’s ABA (Active Brake Assist) function kicks in and increases brake pressure. The GLS actively helps drivers avoid a collision. The system can also reduce speed automatically if the driver’s reactions are for some reason delayed. Through distance monitoring, the cross-traffic function of the GLS collects data through a radar detector and a stereo camera. The sourced data is analyzed in real-time and the GLS reacts instantly.

From the first glance, you can tell why the AMG GLS is different. The AMG embraided sports seats mirror Mercedes’ fine attention to details. The epic design of the GLS’s sports line shows the car maker’s signature prestige. It’s power and elegance brought together. To help car enthusiasts enjoy their passion ICL provides UK car leasing and contract hire services to individuals and businesses throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including for the Mercedes GLS.

06-Mercedes-Benz-Vehicles-GLS-SUV-2015-offroad-660x6021-660x602
The GLS takes the stress out of driving, providing high-performance safety and intelligent drive systems

The GLS Strikes A Fine Balance Between Comfort and Body Control At Speed

The GLS excels as one of the most practical and luxurious SUVs on the market. The standard seven-seater offers comfort and security in a spacious and carefully-designed interior. Flexible and spacious seating arrangement with outstanding finishes make the GLS a perfect vehicle for any circumstances. Whether you want to feel the power and luxury of a sports car or need the help of a practical vehicle, the GLS will cater to your needs. Mercedes brings innovation to the table through the GLS’s ability to memorize seat settings. When you feel comfortable in your chosen seat position the vehicle will memorize your preferences instantly. All it takes is the push of a button on the seat control panel and you’re done. Safety and security are at the core of the GLS. Seatbelts tighten up during high speeds to maintain body control and avoid any injuries in case of collision or quick turns.

The Steering Is Precise Enough

Although it’s not exactly geared towards sports car steering, the GLS runs smoothly and incorporates progressive systems. Considering its great dimensions, the GLS proves to handle remarkably well. Steering can sometimes feel distant, but the ride is still under control and feels safe. With the help of the Active Curve system which uses counterforce to keep the vehicle leveled correctly, your driving experience will be effortless.

04_Mercedes-Benz-Vehicles-GLS-SUV-2015-offroad-660x602-660x602
The GLS comes in two engine options – 3.0-liter V6 diesel in the GLS350 and the AMG GLS63 featuring a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 petrol engine

Electrically Folding Seats Expand the Initially Small Boot

Practicality, comfort, and space are the pillars of the GLS. It’s a huge vehicle with an extremely spacious cabin. Although the 295-liter boot seems rather small for the SUV’s overall dimensions, extra room can be added by automatically folding down the second and third rows of seats. You’ll then achieve a 2,300-litre boot, in van mode. The GLS proves to be a versatile and completely adaptable SUV catering to your every possible requirement.

The GLS is a great vehicle inside and out. It’s luxurious, sporty, comfortable and safe, and makes your driving experience remarkable. It’s easy to see why the GLS is one of the top-rated SUVs worldwide.

Prices start from £70,615.