Mercedes GLS: A UK Driver's Comprehensive Review

When it comes to grand, luxurious SUVs that promise a commanding presence and an opulent journey, the Mercedes-Benz GLS often sits at the pinnacle. Dubbed by Mercedes itself as the 'S-Class of SUVs', it sets a high bar for comfort, refinement, and sheer scale. But for the discerning driver in the United Kingdom, where roads can be narrower and cityscapes denser, the crucial question remains: Is the Mercedes GLS truly a good car to drive?

The Driving Experience: A Symphony of Comfort and Power

The Mercedes GLS represents a significant leap forward from its predecessors, offering a driving experience that prioritises unparalleled comfort and refinement. From the moment you settle into its plush seats, it's clear this vehicle is engineered for long-distance cruising and serene journeys, whether you're navigating motorways or traversing country lanes.

Sublime Ride Quality

One of the GLS's standout features is its ride quality. It truly is sublime, gliding over imperfections in the road with remarkable ease, isolating occupants from the harsh realities of uneven surfaces. This is particularly noticeable, and indeed enhanced, by the optional E-Active Body Control system. This sophisticated suspension technology is a must-have for anyone seeking the ultimate GLS experience. It actively scans the road ahead, adjusting the suspension in real-time to counteract body roll, pitch, and dive, ensuring a consistently smooth and level ride. This technology allows the GLS to operate at its absolute best, transforming typical road bumps into mere whispers.

Engine Performance and Refinement

Under the bonnet, the GLS typically features a diesel engine that is both smooth and powerful. It delivers ample grunt for effortless acceleration and confident overtakes, even when the vehicle is fully laden. What's more, this power comes with remarkable quietness. The engine's hushed operation contributes significantly to the overall refinement of the cabin, making for a tranquil environment where conversations flow easily and road noise is kept to a minimum. While fuel economy isn't its strongest suit, it's generally considered acceptable for a vehicle of this size and capability, especially given its luxurious nature.

Handling and Manoeuvrability

Despite its considerable size, the GLS handles with a surprising degree of composure. The steering is light yet precise, making it manageable even in tighter situations. However, its sheer dimensions are undeniable. This SUV is huge, and while that translates to cavernous interior space, it can pose a challenge on many UK roads, particularly in urban environments or narrow village streets. Parking in multi-storey car parks or navigating crowded city centres will require extra vigilance and confidence, as the vehicle can feel potentially too big for such confines. This is perhaps its most significant 'nit-pick' for UK drivers.

Luxury and Space: The 'S-Class of SUVs' Promise

The Mercedes GLS aims to deliver the luxurious experience of the S-Class saloon in an SUV package, and in many respects, it succeeds. It provides more space than nearly anything else for the money, comfortably accommodating up to seven adults in genuine luxury. The third row isn't just for children; it offers respectable legroom and headroom, making it a viable option for adult passengers on shorter journeys.

Interior Design and Quality

The interior boasts high-quality materials and a meticulous finish, synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand. However, some critics note that the dashboard design, while premium, bears a strong resemblance to that of the cheaper GLE, which might detract slightly from its 'S-Class of SUVs' premium positioning. While refinement is exceptional, it may not quite reach the peerless levels of the S-Class saloon, which remains the benchmark for automotive luxury.

Comparison: GLS vs. S-Class

To truly understand the GLS's position, it's useful to compare it with its spiritual saloon sibling, the S-Class:

The GLS excels in its ability to transport seven adults in comfort and offers the practicality of an SUV, including a decent account of itself off-road (though most owners may never truly test this). The S-Class, however, retains the edge in terms of pure on-road refinement and arguably a slightly more bespoke interior feel.

Servicing Your Mercedes GLS: What to Expect

The provided information does not specify how long a Mercedes GLS service lasts. However, as a premium vehicle from a renowned manufacturer like Mercedes-Benz, servicing is a crucial aspect of ownership to maintain its performance, safety, and longevity. Mercedes-Benz operates a comprehensive service schedule, typically alternating between 'A' and 'B' services, with additional items addressed as needed based on mileage and age.

Mercedes-Benz Service Schedule Overview

• Service A: This is generally a minor service, often due after 1 year or 10,000-15,000 miles (whichever comes first). It typically includes an oil and filter change, fluid level checks, tyre pressure checks, and a general inspection. This service is usually quicker, often completed within a few hours.
• Service B: This is a more comprehensive service, usually due 2 years or 20,000-30,000 miles after the previous service. It includes everything from Service A, plus cabin filter replacement, brake fluid change, and more in-depth inspections of key components like brakes, suspension, and steering. This service will naturally take longer, potentially a half-day or full-day, depending on the specific requirements and any additional work identified.

The exact duration can vary based on the specific service centre, their workload, and whether any additional repairs or maintenance are required beyond the standard service items. It's always best to consult with an authorised Mercedes-Benz service centre for precise timing and cost estimates for your specific GLS model.

Clarifying 'GLS': The Car vs. The Dealership

It's important to clarify a common point of confusion: the term 'GLS' can refer to both the Mercedes-Benz GLS luxury SUV model and, in another context, to specific car dealerships such as 'GLS Car Sales' located in Caernarfon, North Wales.

Mercedes-Benz GLS: The Vehicle

As discussed extensively, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is a flagship full-size luxury SUV manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, a division of Daimler AG. It is renowned for its spacious interior, high levels of comfort, sophisticated technology, and powerful engines. It is a direct competitor in the premium SUV segment.

GLS Car Sales: The Used Car Dealership

Conversely, 'GLS Car Sales' is an independent used car dealership. This business specialises in offering a range of second-hand cars, often including main dealer part-exchanges. They provide services such as a 12-month MOT, full servicing (with new cambelt kits fitted if required), and a 3-6 month parts and labour warranty (with extended warranty options available). They pride themselves on sourcing quality original equipment parts from suppliers like GSF Car Parts and even offer free delivery. It's crucial to understand that 'GLS Car Sales' is a retailer of vehicles, not the manufacturer of the Mercedes-Benz GLS. While they might sell a used Mercedes-Benz GLS, their business name 'GLS' is merely a coincidence and does not imply a direct manufacturing or official brand affiliation with Mercedes-Benz itself.

Is the Mercedes GLS Right for You?

For those seeking a truly luxurious, spacious, and comfortable SUV, the Mercedes GLS is an outstanding contender. Its ability to carry seven adults in genuine comfort, combined with a smooth, powerful, and quiet diesel engine, makes it ideal for families or anyone needing significant passenger and cargo capacity. The optional E-Active Body Control system elevates the ride quality to an almost unrivalled level.

However, its colossal size is a factor that cannot be overlooked, especially for drivers in the UK. If your daily commute involves navigating tight city streets or parking in compact spaces, the GLS might prove to be more of a challenge than a convenience. While it aims for the 'S-Class of SUVs' title, some minor interior design elements and overall refinement might fall just short of the S-Class saloon's absolute perfection.

Ultimately, if you prioritise comfort, space, and a commanding driving position, and are prepared to manage its substantial footprint on British roads, the Mercedes GLS is indeed a great car to drive. It offers a unique blend of practicality and luxury that few rivals can match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the Mercedes GLS good for city driving in the UK?

While the Mercedes GLS boasts superb comfort and refinement, its sheer size can be a significant challenge for city driving in the UK. Narrow streets, tight parking spaces, and busy urban environments can make manoeuvring difficult. It's potentially too big for most UK city roads, so consider your typical driving conditions before committing.

Q2: What is E-Active Body Control, and is it worth the extra cost?

E-Active Body Control is an advanced active suspension system that uses a 48-volt electrical system to individually control the spring and damping forces at each wheel. It can scan the road ahead and adjust the suspension to counteract body roll, pitch, and squat, providing an incredibly smooth and stable ride. While an expensive option, it is considered a must-have by many to experience the GLS at its best, significantly enhancing ride quality and comfort.

Q3: How does the GLS compare to other luxury SUVs?

The Mercedes GLS is a strong competitor in the luxury SUV segment, often compared to vehicles like the BMW X7, Range Rover, and Audi Q7. It stands out for its exceptional third-row space, ride comfort (especially with E-Active Body Control), and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge. While rivals might offer different driving dynamics or interior aesthetics, the GLS's focus on opulent space and ride quality is a key differentiator.

Q4: What kind of fuel economy can I expect from a Mercedes GLS?

For a large, heavy luxury SUV, the fuel economy of the Mercedes GLS (particularly the diesel variants) is generally considered acceptable, though not outstanding. Specific figures will vary based on the engine, driving style, and road conditions, but expect figures typical for a vehicle of its size and power, likely in the range of 30-35 MPG for diesel models in mixed driving.

Q5: Can the Mercedes GLS go off-road?

Yes, the Mercedes GLS is designed to give a decent account of itself off-road, thanks to its robust build, ground clearance, and available off-road driving modes. While most owners may not frequently venture far off the beaten track, it has the capability to handle moderate off-road conditions, making it more versatile than many luxury saloons.

Q6: Are all 'GLS' car sellers related to Mercedes-Benz?

No, this is a common misconception. While the Mercedes-Benz GLS is a specific model of car, 'GLS Car Sales' is the name of an independent used car dealership in Caernarfon. They sell a variety of second-hand vehicles, which may include used Mercedes-Benz models, but they are not directly affiliated with Mercedes-Benz as a manufacturer.

If you want to read more articles similar to Mercedes GLS: A UK Driver's Comprehensive Review, you can visit the Automotive category.