13 June 2016

Mercedes-Benz GLS 2016 car review

The latest, super-sized, seven-seater SUV from the Benz family has just had its face lifted and name changed. Formally known as the GL, the GLS is set to challenge the standards of the SUV world.


DSC 2334
Mercedes-Benz GLS 2016
DSC 2335
DSC 2332
DSC 2333
DSC 2343

The revised exterior and luxurious interior showcase the impressive character of the GLS. Outside the vehicle, focus has been placed on the redesign of the front, however the rear bumper and tail lights have also been modernised. Inside the vehicle there’s a freshly designed instrument panel with semi-integrated media display, a new 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel and a modified centre console with innovative touchpad controller. The real icing on the cake though is the puddle lamps which illuminate the Mercedes-Benz badge.

S-Class entry level

The 350d is the entry level option for those interested, and it presents a very appealing string of features which can be built upon. Unlike the previous model, the 350d now includes COMAND online navigation, Apple CarPlay™, LED Intelligent Light System, Dynamic Select driving modes and 20” 10-spoke wheels. The GLS has lots of space for up to seven adults and it’s all topped off with luxury appointed trimmings.

The usual driver assistance systems from Mercedes have been included, ensuring the safest driving experience possible. Airbag technology has been truly unleashed with adaptive 2-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as window airbags across all rows of seats.

Get the Sport if you want more

If you have a spare $21K in your pocket, you may be interested in upgrading to the Sport package. This certainly ups the ante with a newly designed AMG line exterior, Active Curve System suspension with active roll stabilisation, tyre pressure monitoring and metallic paint. The Active Curve System uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle and reduces the body roll angle during cornering. This gives drivers a better experience on both windy and straight roads, and, should you need it, this system also has extended off-road capabilities. But that’s not the end, Nappa Leather, AMG line interior and 21” AMG wheels are also a standard fitment for this year’s model.

At a glance 
Models GLS 350d, GLS 350d Sport 
Engine 3.0 V6 diesel 
Price $139,000-$160,000 
ANCAP safety rating To be announced
Power 190 kW 
Transmission  9-speed G-TRONIC automatic 
Fuel economy 7.6L/100km diesel
Towing capacity 750kg unbraked, 3,402kg braked 
2WD/4WD/AWD 4MATIC AWD 
Safety systems 
Collision Prevention Assist Plus Crosswind Assist
Pre-Safe™ Brake with pedestrian detection Brake Assist Plus with Cross Traffic Assist
Active Lane Keeping Assist  Adaptive, two-stage, front airbags
4ETS (Electronic all-wheel drive traction system) Front knee airbags (thorax/pelvis)
Reversing and proximity camera Window airbags
Previous review
Next review
Volkswagen California Ocean 2016 car review
Read more
Suzuki Vitara Turbo 2016 car review
Read more