2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Review

Detailed Review

The first generation Mercedes Benz GLS, known as the X164, was produced between 2006 and 2012. It was the first full-size, seven-seater SUV, and it debuted around the same time as the similarly sized Audi Q7. Between 2013 and 2019, the second generation, known as the X166 GL-Class, was constructed. According to Mercedes’ new nomenclature, the GL-Class was renamed GLS in 2016. Efficiency upgrades included an engine start-stop technology, drive-by-wire steering, and new turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. In 2019, the third-generation model was introduced. When compared to earlier models, its wheelbase is 2.3 inches longer and nearly an inch broader. It is built on the same architecture as the most recent GLE. The 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS comes with an option of three engines; 3.0 L (petrol), 3.0 L (diesel), and 4.7 L (petrol) engines with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Grades
1. AMG GLS 63 4MATIC- This variant comes with a navigation system, dual-zone A/C, premium sound system, satellite radio, CD player, driver-illuminated vanity mirror, and power door locks.
2. GLS 350d 4MATIC- This grade has running boards, a tire pressure monitoring system, wheel locks, vehicle anti-theft system, remote engine start, remote trunk release, smart device integration, rear A/C, and heated rear & front seats.
3. GLS 450 4MATIC- This trim level boasts a dual moonroof, compact spare tire, Auto-Off headlights, adjustable steering wheel, mirror memory, CD player, Apple car play, climate control, Wireless cell phone hookup, and seat memory.
4. GLS 550 4MATIC- This variant comes with cruise control, Keyless start, Automatic parking, seat massage, remote engine start, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, auxiliary audio input, Satelite radio, smart device integration, dual zone A/C, onboard hands-free communications system and climate control.

Interior
Legroom & Space
The interior of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS is quite stylish and elegant, with ambient lighting. The first row features plenty of legroom and headroom, as well as seats that can recline to a comfortable position.
The second row provides sufficient knee and headroom for taller passengers to sit comfortably. The third row of seats which is considered ideal for kids is more spacious and hence it can accommodate also adults but not for long drives.

Cabin Storage
The 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS boasts a glove compartment box, heated and cooled cupholders, a deep center console, and bottle storage mounted against the doors which can be used to store personal effects.

Boot Space
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS has 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space when the third row of seats is in position, 31.4 cubic feet of space when the third row of seats are folded, and 84.7 cubic feet of trunk space when the second and third rows of seats are folded. Each of the five back seats may be lowered with the flip of a switch.

Exterior
In the front, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets redesigned headlights with active curve illumination and adaptive high beam aid. Park assist is also incorporated into the front bumper, and a chrome atom at the bottom of the bumper directs air into the engine compartment. In the center is a double-walled grille with chrome accents and the massive Mercedes-Benz insignia. The hood also has two vents on each side, giving this SUV a more muscular appearance.
To facilitate entry and exit, the side profile features illuminated running boards. At the top is a massive panoramic sunroof. The back sports a new tail light with a fiber optic effect. At the bottom is a black rear diffuser that frames the dual chrome tip exhaust. There is also a roof spoiler with an integrated hood LED brake light and an electric-powered tailgate.

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Safety Features
The 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS features SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, DCS and TCS, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Pre-crash Safety System, Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Pedestrian Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Frontal Collision Warning, Automatic High Beam, Run Flat tires, Active Roll Stabilization, Electronic Damping Control, Anti-whiplash, Pretensioners

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Fuel Consumption
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 3.0 L petrol engine consumption- 9.8km/l on average
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 3.0 L diesel engine consumption- 10.4km/l on average
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 4.7 L petrol engine consumption- 8.8km/l on average

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Acceleration
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 3.0 L petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.8 secs
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 3.0 L diesel accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.1 secs
2017 Mercedes Benz GLS 4.4 L petrol accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.6 secs

2017 Mercedes Benz GLS Fuel Tank Capacity: 100 liters

Ground Clearance
The 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS has a ground clearance of 8.5 inches.

Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability
Service parts are fairly priced and available in major towns in Kenya. Body parts are expensive and mostly available in Nairobi

Stability And Handling
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS’s stability and handling prowess are remarkable, thanks to outstanding German engineering; it has become synonymous with perfection. The electric power steering of the car is accurate and sensitive, making it easy to navigate and operate. The steering is also adjustable, allowing drivers to choose from various amounts of assistance based on their preferences.

This vehicle has a good ground clearance which enables it to tackle the off-road terrain without any worry of damaging its bottom and sides.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS incorporates anti-lock brakes (ABS), which detect when a tire stops rotating when braking and regulate the brake pressure to allow the tire to rotate. This improves the vehicle’s turning capabilities while braking.

Reliability
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS is regarded as a dependable vehicle in which owners can expect a trouble-free driving experience. However, in the midst of all these impressive features, the GLS has its own set of known issues, such as the failure of the 48-volt secondary battery, which is used to assist the vehicle’s startup and power car components. Vibrations in the GLS are another issue that plagued the vehicle and unsettled owners. Users complained that their tires were unbalanced, which affected the vehicle’s overall handling and control.
For a detailed reliability report, refer to the Mercedes Benz GLS buyer guide. We also recommend that you always adhere to the guidelines outlined in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Average

Mercedes Benz GLS Competitors: BMW X7, Lexus GX, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Lincoln Navigator, and Cadillac Escalade.

What we like about the 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS

• Roomy and luxurious cabin
• Cargo versatility
• Easy third-row access
• Off-road capabilities

What we don’t

• Many desirable features cost extra

Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes Benz GLS class is spacious, fast, and comfortable, but its best feature is its enjoyable driving style. Individuals with big families will definitely enjoy their ride in this SUV.