The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS continues to represent everything buyers expect from a flagship luxury SUV. Large, refined, powerful, and exceptionally comfortable, the GLS occupies the very top of the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup in much the same way the legendary S-Class dominates the brand’s sedan range.
In today’s market, full-size luxury SUVs have become rolling symbols of status, comfort, and technology. Buyers no longer simply want space for seven passengers. They expect advanced driver assistance systems, premium craftsmanship, smooth highway manners, powerful engines, and enough refinement to justify six-figure price tags. The GLS understands that assignment extremely well.
What makes the GLS stand out is its balance. Some rivals focus heavily on rugged styling and brute-force capability, while others prioritize flashy interiors or aggressive performance. The Mercedes-Benz GLS instead delivers a more polished and mature experience. It feels expensive in all the right ways without trying too hard to prove it.
Despite its enormous size, the GLS remains surprisingly easy to drive. Visibility is excellent, steering feels lighter than expected, and the suspension manages to isolate passengers from rough roads better than many competitors. Whether serving as a luxury family hauler, a long-distance highway cruiser, or a high-end executive SUV, the GLS feels comfortable in nearly every role.
Mercedes-Benz also offers the GLS in several personalities. The GLS 450 provides an impressive blend of efficiency, comfort, and performance through its turbocharged inline-six engine. The GLS 580 introduces V8 power and a more commanding personality, while the AMG GLS 63 transforms the SUV into something shockingly fast for its size.
Inside, the GLS delivers one of the most spacious and luxurious cabins in the segment. The second row feels limousine-like, the third row is genuinely usable for adults, and the overall material quality consistently reminds passengers they are inside a premium flagship SUV.
Competition in this segment is fierce. Buyers may also consider the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Lexus LX 600, or Lincoln Navigator. Yet the GLS remains one of the most complete luxury SUVs because it blends comfort, technology, refinement, performance, and practicality better than almost anything else on the market.
For buyers who want luxury without sacrificing usability, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS continues to set a very high standard.
Pros
- Exceptionally refined and comfortable highway ride
- Spacious third row suitable for adults
- Premium cabin materials and build quality
- Powerful engine lineup with smooth acceleration
- Advanced infotainment and driver assistance technology
- Excellent towing capability for the segment
- Quiet cabin with impressive road isolation
- Elegant styling without excessive aggression
- Comfortable long-distance cruiser
- Strong balance between luxury and practicality
Cons
- Optional extras become extremely expensive
- Fuel economy is average at best
- Large size can make tight parking difficult
- Some advanced safety features cost extra
- AMG model sacrifices ride comfort for performance
What’s New for 2023?
- Updated technology and infotainment refinements
- Expanded availability of luxury and driver assistance features
- Improved connectivity and software integration
- Continued mild-hybrid EQ Boost technology across key trims
- Minor equipment packaging updates depending on market
Overview
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS remains one of the most impressive luxury SUVs available today. It combines premium comfort, strong performance, advanced technology, and genuine three-row practicality into a package that feels properly flagship.
Unlike some oversized luxury SUVs that prioritize appearance over refinement, the GLS feels carefully engineered to provide comfort during every type of driving situation. Whether navigating city traffic or covering hundreds of highway miles, the SUV maintains a calm and composed personality.
The standard GLS 450 already delivers strong performance thanks to its turbocharged inline-six engine paired with Mercedes-Benz EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. Acceleration feels smooth and effortless, while the suspension provides a refined ride quality that hides the vehicle’s massive dimensions remarkably well.
Buyers wanting additional power can move to the GLS 580, which introduces a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with significantly stronger acceleration and a more muscular character.
Inside, the GLS feels genuinely luxurious. The cabin design remains elegant and modern without becoming overly complicated. High-quality leather, soft-touch materials, metallic trim pieces, and ambient lighting all contribute to an upscale atmosphere.
One of the biggest strengths of the GLS is interior space. Unlike some luxury SUVs that treat the third row as an afterthought, the GLS provides enough room for adults to travel comfortably.
Technology also plays a major role in the experience. Mercedes-Benz equips the GLS with large digital displays, advanced voice controls, smartphone connectivity, navigation, and a wide range of available driver assistance features.
Most importantly, the GLS succeeds because it never feels like a compromise. It combines luxury, practicality, and performance in a way that few competitors fully achieve.
Competitors to Consider
The full-size luxury SUV segment includes several strong competitors, but each rival approaches the category differently.
The BMW X7 is perhaps the GLS’s closest competitor. It offers sharper handling and a more driver-focused personality, particularly in higher-performance trims. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLS generally feels softer and more refined during daily driving.
The Cadillac Escalade focuses heavily on presence, interior technology, and massive cargo space. Its bold styling and enormous cabin appeal strongly to buyers who want attention and maximum practicality.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer offers impressive luxury while maintaining genuine off-road capability. Buyers wanting rugged character alongside premium comfort may prefer the Jeep.
The Lexus LX 600 emphasizes durability and long-term reliability, though its third-row packaging and interior space are less impressive than the GLS.
Lincoln’s Navigator also remains a strong option for buyers prioritizing comfort and traditional American luxury.
Despite the strong competition, the GLS continues to stand out because it feels exceptionally balanced. It delivers comfort, technology, luxury, and performance without leaning too aggressively in one direction.
If you’re exploring more options from the 2022 and 2023 SUV market, CarDrav offers a rich collection of in-depth reviews that provide valuable context for shoppers comparing different segments and performance levels.. Full size shoppers can take a closer look at alternatives such as the 2022 GMC Yukon and the 2022 Nissan Armada, both offering strong capability and three-row versatility. Drivers who prefer more rugged, off-road-oriented options may find the 2022 Toyota 4Runner appealing for its durability and proven reliability in demanding conditions.
For families seeking refinement and balanced utility in a midsize package, reviews of the 2022 Cadillac XT6, 2023 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2022 Ford Edge provide helpful comparisons. Cross shoppers who want to explore newer electric or tech-forward SUVs can also learn from models like the 2023 Nissan Ariya, 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and the 2023 Honda Passport, each offering a different take on efficiency, comfort, and everyday practicality.
Those comparing lifestyle-focused SUVs may also find the 2023 Nissan Kicks, 2023 Nissan Murano, 2023 Ford Explorer, and 2023 GMC Acadia useful when evaluating what matters most in space, technology, and driving character.
Driving Experience
Driving a vehicle this large should feel intimidating, but the Mercedes-Benz GLS manages to feel surprisingly approachable from behind the wheel.
The steering is light and predictable, making the SUV easier to maneuver than its dimensions suggest. Visibility is excellent for a full-size luxury SUV, and the driving position gives drivers a commanding view of the road.
The GLS 450 provides more than enough power for most buyers. Its turbocharged inline-six engine feels smooth, refined, and responsive, especially during highway acceleration and merging situations. The mild-hybrid EQ Boost system also helps improve throttle response during low-speed driving.
The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and rarely feels confused, even during stop-and-go traffic.
Ride quality remains one of the GLS’s strongest qualities. The suspension absorbs bumps and road imperfections extremely well, helping the SUV feel composed and isolated from rough pavement.
The GLS 580 adds significantly more power through its twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Acceleration becomes noticeably stronger, and the SUV feels more effortless during aggressive driving.
For buyers wanting maximum performance, the AMG GLS 63 delivers astonishing straight-line speed for a vehicle this size. It feels more like a high-performance sports sedan than a three-row family SUV during acceleration.
Despite its luxury focus, the GLS can also tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, making it useful for buyers with boats, trailers, or recreational equipment.
While it is not a serious off-road SUV like the Lexus LX or Grand Wagoneer, the GLS still handles dirt roads and poor weather conditions confidently.
Comfort
Comfort is one of the defining characteristics of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS.
The front seats are exceptionally supportive and remain comfortable during long-distance travel. Mercedes-Benz has carefully tuned the cushioning to provide softness without sacrificing support.
Second-row passengers enjoy enormous legroom and a limousine-like seating experience, especially in higher trims equipped with additional luxury features.
Unlike many luxury SUVs, the third row in the GLS is genuinely usable for adults. Entry and exit are relatively easy, and the available space makes longer trips more realistic for seven passengers.
Cabin isolation is also impressive. Wind noise remains minimal at highway speeds, and road imperfections are filtered out effectively through the suspension.
Optional features such as heated and ventilated seats, massaging functions, four-zone climate control, and acoustic glass elevate the experience even further.
Even after hours behind the wheel, the GLS continues to feel relaxing rather than tiring.
Interior
The interior of the GLS reflects Mercedes-Benz’s modern luxury philosophy extremely well.
The dashboard design feels elegant and upscale without becoming visually overwhelming. Large digital displays dominate the front cabin, while ambient lighting and premium materials create a sophisticated atmosphere.
Leather surfaces, metallic accents, soft-touch panels, and precise assembly all contribute to a feeling of genuine quality.
Mercedes-Benz also avoids making the cabin feel overly futuristic. While technology is everywhere, the interior still maintains enough physical controls to remain practical during daily driving.
The center console provides useful storage space, and overall ergonomics are excellent for such a large SUV.
Passenger space remains one of the GLS’s biggest advantages. All three rows feel more spacious than many competing luxury SUVs.
Cargo flexibility is also strong, especially when the rear seats are folded.
Overall, the GLS cabin successfully combines modern technology with traditional luxury craftsmanship.
In-Cabin Tech
Technology is a major selling point for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS.
The SUV features Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays that handle both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment functions.
Graphics look sharp, menus respond quickly, and the overall system feels modern without becoming overly complicated.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow seamless smartphone integration, while the voice assistant can perform many vehicle functions through natural voice commands.
Navigation, wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and premium audio systems are also available.
One of the GLS’s most impressive features is its ambient lighting system, which allows extensive color customization and adds a high-end atmosphere during nighttime driving.
Driver assistance technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, parking assistance, and surround-view cameras.
Although some advanced features remain optional, the overall technology experience feels competitive with the best luxury SUVs on the market.
Storage
Practicality remains surprisingly strong for such a luxurious vehicle.
The GLS provides useful cargo capacity behind the third row, making grocery runs, airport pickups, and family travel realistic even when all seats are occupied.
Folding the third row dramatically increases cargo space, while folding both rear rows transforms the GLS into an extremely capable cargo hauler.
Storage compartments throughout the cabin are also intelligently designed. Large door pockets, cupholders, center console storage, and multiple charging areas improve daily usability.
Families will especially appreciate the flexibility offered by the three-row configuration.
MPG
Fuel economy is not the primary focus of a full-size luxury SUV, but the GLS performs reasonably well considering its size and performance.
The GLS 450 delivers the best balance between efficiency and power in the lineup. Its turbocharged inline-six engine and mild-hybrid system help reduce fuel consumption compared with traditional V8-powered competitors.
The GLS 580 naturally consumes more fuel due to its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, though the additional power may justify the tradeoff for some buyers.
The AMG GLS 63 prioritizes performance over efficiency and should be expected to consume fuel accordingly.
Overall, buyers shopping in this segment are unlikely to consider fuel economy a deciding factor.
Value
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is expensive, but it delivers an ownership experience that feels worthy of its premium pricing.
The GLS 450 represents the best overall value in the lineup because it already includes strong performance, premium comfort, advanced technology, and impressive refinement.
Optional extras can quickly push pricing far beyond six figures, so buyers should carefully select packages that genuinely improve daily ownership.
Compared with some competitors, the GLS feels more polished and luxurious even before adding expensive upgrades.
For buyers seeking a true flagship luxury SUV experience without moving into ultra-exotic territory, the GLS remains one of the smartest choices in the segment.
Wildcard
What makes the Mercedes-Benz GLS special is not one individual feature.
It is the way everything works together.
The SUV feels large without becoming clumsy, luxurious without becoming excessive, and powerful without feeling aggressive. Mercedes-Benz managed to create a full-size SUV that still feels refined and approachable during everyday driving.
That balance is far more difficult to achieve than simply adding more screens, horsepower, or chrome.
The GLS understands that real luxury is about effortlessness.
Trim Level Differences
The GLS lineup includes several trims aimed at different types of buyers.
The GLS 450 uses a turbocharged inline-six engine paired with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. It delivers smooth performance, excellent comfort, and the best overall balance in the lineup.
The GLS 580 introduces a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with substantially more power and a stronger performance character.
The AMG GLS 63 transforms the SUV into a high-performance luxury machine with aggressive styling, upgraded suspension tuning, and incredible acceleration.
Mercedes-Benz also offers the ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Maybach GLS for buyers seeking chauffeur-level comfort and exclusivity.
Optional packages across the lineup can add features such as massaging seats, upgraded audio systems, enhanced driver assistance technologies, premium leather upholstery, acoustic comfort enhancements, and larger wheels.
Which Trim Does CarDrav Recommend?
For most buyers, the GLS 450 is easily the smartest choice.
It delivers excellent power, outstanding comfort, modern technology, and impressive refinement without the significantly higher fuel costs and pricing associated with the V8 models.
The inline-six engine already feels strong enough for daily driving, highway travel, and family road trips.
Buyers who prioritize performance above everything else will love the AMG GLS 63, but it sacrifices some ride comfort and dramatically increases ownership costs.
The GLS 580 occupies the middle ground with strong V8 power and enhanced luxury appeal, though the price jump may not feel necessary for many buyers.
Overall, the GLS 450 offers the best balance of luxury, practicality, performance, and long-term value in the lineup.
Verdict
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS remains one of the finest full-size luxury SUVs on the market.
It successfully combines premium comfort, advanced technology, refined road manners, strong performance, and genuine three-row usability into a package that feels properly flagship.
While some competitors may offer stronger off-road capability, sharper handling, or more dramatic styling, very few match the GLS’s overall balance.
The GLS 450 in particular stands out as an exceptionally well-rounded luxury SUV that delivers nearly everything buyers in this segment could want.
For families and luxury buyers seeking a spacious SUV that feels expensive in all the right ways, the Mercedes-Benz GLS continues to justify its reputation as one of the segment’s benchmarks.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS a good luxury SUV?
Yes, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS is considered one of the best full-size luxury SUVs thanks to its refined ride quality, spacious interior, advanced technology, and powerful engine options.
How many passengers can the Mercedes-Benz GLS seat?
The GLS can seat up to seven passengers comfortably across three rows, and unlike many rivals, the third row is spacious enough for adults.
What engine options are available in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The lineup includes a turbocharged inline-six engine in the GLS 450, a twin-turbocharged V8 in the GLS 580, and a high-performance AMG GLS 63 with over 600 horsepower.
Is the GLS 450 powerful enough?
Absolutely. The GLS 450 delivers smooth and strong acceleration, making it more than capable for daily driving, highway travel, and family road trips.
Does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS have good towing capacity?
Yes, the GLS can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for trailers, boats, and recreational equipment.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLS comfortable for long trips?
The GLS is one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs for long-distance travel thanks to its supportive seats, quiet cabin, smooth suspension, and spacious interior.
How fuel efficient is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Fuel economy is reasonable for the segment. The GLS 450 offers the best balance between performance and efficiency, while V8 models consume more fuel.
Does the GLS support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, the 2023 GLS includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for seamless smartphone integration.
What are the main competitors of the Mercedes-Benz GLS?
Key competitors include the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Lexus LX 600, and Lincoln Navigator.
Is the third row in the GLS usable for adults?
Yes, the third row in the Mercedes-Benz GLS is genuinely spacious compared to many luxury SUVs in the segment.
Which Mercedes-Benz GLS trim is best?
For most buyers, the GLS 450 offers the best combination of luxury, comfort, performance, and value.
Does the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS offer all-wheel drive?
Yes, Mercedes-Benz equips the GLS lineup with a capable all-wheel-drive system for improved traction and stability.
Is the AMG GLS 63 worth buying?
The AMG GLS 63 is an excellent choice for buyers wanting extreme performance in a luxury SUV, though it comes with higher ownership costs and firmer ride quality.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLS have advanced safety features?
Yes, the GLS offers a wide range of safety and driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS worth the price?
For buyers seeking a premium three-row luxury SUV with advanced technology, strong comfort, and impressive refinement, the GLS justifies its premium pricing very well.
