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 Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
3.0L Turbo 6-Cylinder | 362 hp | 369 lb-ft | 21 mpg |
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 483 hp | 516 lb-ft | 18 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.
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.
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).
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
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.