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2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

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Make
Mercedes-Benz
Model
GLS-Class
Year
2020
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Used Car Price Range
$42,743 - $62,998
$42,743 $62,998
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2020 GLS 450 Base 4dr All-wheel Drive 4MATIC
most popular
Price:   -  From $75,950
2020 GLS 580 Base 4dr All-wheel Drive 4MATIC Price:   -  From $98,800
Expert Rating
3.7 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

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Overview

What's New

The updated 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class begins a new generation. The exterior has softer lines but looks similar to the outgoing version. Inside, the GLS gains Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system along with a host of newly standard tech features.

The big Benz has new powertrains, too. The two turbocharged engine choices offer mild hybrid functionality, but don't expect true hybrid efficiency.

To go along with the upgrades, the new Mercedes GLS-Class gets a price hike of around $5,000. AMG and Maybach versions are almost certainly on the way, but Mercedes-Benz hasn’t yet announced any details.

Choosing Your Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

The GLS-Class is available in two trims: GLS 450 and GLS 580. Pricing starts at $76,945 including destination for the GLS 450 and climbs to $99,795 for the new GLS 580.

Engine Choices

The Mercedes GLS-Class has two new turbocharged powertrains. Like other models from the brand, the GLS-Class separates its trims by engine size. The GLS 450 gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder, while the GLS 580 houses a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8.

Engine TypeHorsepowerTorqueFuel Economy (Combined)
3.0L Turbo 6-Cylinder362 hp369 lb-ft21 mpg
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8483 hp516 lb-ft18 mpg

Both engines use a nine-speed automatic transmission to send power to all four wheels. Both also team up with a 48-volt starter generator and battery.

The electrical system can provide up to an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, helping to smooth out any turbo lag from the gas engine. They don’t improve efficiency much, and the GLS 450 fails to match the BMW X7’s 22 miles per gallon combined, according to the EPA.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity

The GLS-Class seats up to seven passengers in impressive comfort. Although the third row still may not be the best place to spend road trips, the GLS has more legroom than the X7 in all three rows. Changing to second-row captain's chairs is a no-cost option that drops seating capacity to six.

The GLS can fit 17.4 cubic feet of cargo with the third row in place, which is good for the class. Fold the third row, and capacity expands to 48.7 cubic feet, or 84.7 with both rows stowed.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Safety Features

Mercedes is positioning the GLS-Class as the “S-Class of SUVs,” and it gets the tech to match. Automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera system, an automated parking system, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor are all standard.

Furthermore, the Driver Assistance Package PLUS ($2,250) bundles adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane change assist, speed limit assist, and other active safety goodies. Fully outfitted, the GLS-Class approaches autonomous driving.

Connectivity

The MBUX infotainment system is one of the biggest additions to the new GLS, coming in the form of a 12.3-inch central touchscreen. The system is loaded with navigation, voice control, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Nine USB ports and a wireless charging pad are also included.

A head-up display is a $1,100 standalone option.

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

GLS 450 - From $76,945

With its fancy new infotainment system and strong safety tech, the GLS 450 does its best to justify the high starting price. Also included are powered and heated front seats, a sunroof, a power liftgate, remote start, a 12.3-inch driver information display, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Upholstery is synthetic, though.

Upgrading to leather is an extra $1,620, the first entry in a long and expensive list of options. A variety of seating upgrades are available, but drivers will probably be most interested in the ENERGIZING Package Plus ($2,100), which adds massage-capable ventilated front seats along with air purification and fragrance systems.

Or, you can keep the kids happy in back with the Executive Rear Seat Package ($2,200) that upgrades the second row to include comfort head restraints, a wireless charging pad, an infotainment tablet, and side airbags.

The list of standalone options is equally elaborate, but highlights include a panoramic roof ($1,000), a head-up display ($1,100), and infotainment gesture controls ($300).

GLS 580 - From $99,795

The GLS 580’s premium of about $22,000 mostly buys the V8 powertrain and its additional 111 hp. The GLS 580 does get a few extra standard features, too: leather upholstery is standard, as are five-zone climate control and ventilated massage seats upfront.

Options and packages are largely the same here. The only significant addition to the 580 is the Night Package ($400), which kits out the exterior with gloss-black accents and 21-inch rims with black accents.

Compare GLS-Class Trims Side-By-Side

CarsDirect Tip

When it comes to choosing your 2020 Mercedes GLS-Class, the price jump to the GLS 580 is hard to swallow, despite how good the V8 engine is. The base engine is smooth and potent enough for everyday use, and the GLS 450 is a (relatively) better value.

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Automotive Editor
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Expert Review

Pros
  • Sublime exterior
  • Beautiful interior
  • Powerful engines
Cons
  • Expensive at the top
  • Imitation leather standard
  • Performance zaps efficiency
Expert Rating
3.7 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Contributing Editor

You won’t find a garish grille as you do on some models (the BMW X7, for example) nor is the body overrun by nonsensical sculpting or wide flashes of chrome. The grille is sizable and it does push down into the front bumpers, but it's balanced and pleasant to behold. The rear fascia is sedate, featuring a clean and simple look.

Inside, the design is one of the best we’ve seen in any SUV. It offers an open, airy feel with high-end materials throughout. The standard power moonroof is a difference-maker here, as it brings in much natural light.

Three rows of luxury. The Mercedes GLS-Class seats seven across its three rows. The base model features synthetic leather, but the imitation feels as close to authentic as you’ll find anywhere. Various wood choices are on offer for customization, delivering a high-end, even decadent, look.

The front seats are comfortable, supportive, power-adjustable, and heated. Available cooling and massaging simply make these thrones the best you’ll find on the market.

The second-row bench seat is quite comfortable, but you can also swap it out for a pair of captain’s chairs that rival the front seats in comfort. The third-row seat holds a pair of adults in a pinch, but it's most useful for youngsters whose bodies don’t yet require a lot of leg room.


Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Lots of creature comforts. For the $76,945 starting price, you’d expect the GLS to deliver a boatload of amenities. It does.

The GLS 450 comes with a power moonroof, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual-zone climate control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system.

A long list of optional features includes leather upholstery, the second-row captain’s chairs, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. An enhanced suspension system improves handling and control.

In all, you get what you’d expect, while still having the opportunity to make whatever upgrades you like.

Robust power at the ready. Two powertrain choices grace the GLS-Class, but the base arrangement is more than sufficient. The GLS 450 comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 369 horsepower.

Also present is a 48-volt battery system, which brings in an additional 21 hp. This system mitigates turbo lag and manages power-draining accessories.

The GLS 580 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 483 hp. And that’s before the power enhancement of the 48-volt system kicks in. We think this engine is overkill and it's also not especially efficient.

An available E-Active Body Control upgrade does a stellar job cutting into corners. That said, we think it is unnecessary.

Final thoughts. Choose a Mercedes GLS 580 and your starting price near $100,000, or about $22,000 more than the Mercedes GLS 450. We can’t justify the added cost, which brings in the over-the-top powertrain. It doesn’t increase towing performance either, which remains steadfast at a competitive 7,700 pounds.

We expect AMG and Maybach versions will eventually follow, the latter bringing a level of decadence that’ll make a Range Rover seem naked in comparison.

Check prices for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class »

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Available
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
3.0L I-6 / 362 HP / 369 ft.lbs.
Transmission
9-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD
Drive Type
Full-time 4matic All Wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
19 / 23 / 21 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
7 / 6
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
3.0L I-6 / 362 HP / 369 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Full-time 4matic All Wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
19 / 23 / 21 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension
Independent Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Compact Steel
Fuel Tank
23.8 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$91
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
84.7 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
Exterior Length
205.0 "
Exterior Width
77.0 "
Exterior Height
71.8 "
Front Headroom
39.4 "
Rear Headroom
40.2 "
Front Legroom
40.3 "
Rear Legroom
41.9 "
Front Shoulder Room
59.3 "
Rear Shoulder Room
58.5 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
5,412 Lbs.
Wheel Base
123 "
Turning Radius
19.7 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
19.0 " Silver Aluminum / 20.0 " Machined W/painted Accents Aluminum / 21.0 " Machined W/painted Accents Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone / Metallic Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Heated, Power Remote Driver, Power Remote W/tilt Down Passenger
Bumpers
Body-colored
Grille Moldings
Chrome
Rear Spoiler
Lip / Wing
Exhaust
Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
7 / 6
Seat Trim
Mb-tex Leatherette / Leather / Nappa Leather
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Driver And Front Passenger Heated-cushion, Heated-seatback
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
(10-way Power) / (12-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
(10-way Power) / (12-way Power)
Front Armrests
(10-way Power) / (12-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
40-20-40 Split-bench / Bucket
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Mbux Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
13 Burmester / 26 Burmester
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Power Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
Sun Roof
Express Open/close
Rearview Mirror
Auto-dimming Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Deep
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
3
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Rear Side-impact Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front And Rear
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Active Brake Assist With Cross-traffic Function Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Sensor
Blind Spot Assist Blind Spot / Active Blind Spot Assist Blind Spot
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Departure / Active Lane Keeping Assist Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Active Steering Assist Hands-on (with Lane Change) Steering Assist
Pedestrian Detection
Active Brake Assist Front Pedestrian Detection Prevention
Driver Attention Alert
Attention Assist Driver Attention
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Highbeam Assist (aha) Auto High-beam
Adaptive Headlights
Directionally Adaptive
Parking Sensors
Active Parking Assist Automated
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Major Components Months
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
Roadside Assistance Months
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Accessories Months

Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class for Sale

11 vehicles found within 50 miles of your area
Mercedes-Benz
Base GLS 450 4dr All-Wheel Drive 4MATIC
Color: Mojave Silver Metallic
Price

$42,743

Mileage

62,512 mi

Map location icon

Puente Hills Mitsubishi (29 mi)

Phone: (626) 964-5111
Mercedes-Benz
Base 4MATIC
Color: Black
Price

$43,893

Mileage

63,312 mi

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Fletcher Jones Motorcars - Newport Beach (36 mi)

Phone: (949) 718-3000
Mercedes-Benz
Base 4MATIC
Color: White
Price

$46,150

Mileage

58,025 mi

Map location icon

Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel (49 mi)

Phone: (949) 612-2109
Mercedes-Benz
Base GLS 450 4dr All-Wheel Drive 4MATIC
Color: Polar White
Price

$46,985

Mileage

49,700 mi

Map location icon

House of Imports, Inc. (24 mi)

Phone: (888) 208-7678
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