Overview
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS is one of the top luxury large SUVs in the world. There are few things that the SUV does well. It has a good cargo capacity for you to keep all your luggage. The SUV has a great engine with a variety of choices, drives smoothly and has a stellar interior. In comparison with its predecessor, the 2021 GLS model includes the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 models. The AMG variant stands out with a high-quality trim, while the Maybach is a model designed for high-flyers and luxury lovers rivaling the opulence of the Bentley Bentayga.
Characteristics
Engine
A great thing about the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS is that each model comes with a unique engine. The base model, GLS 450, is designed with a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 362-hp output. The GLS 580 takes it up a notch with a 483-hp twin-turbo V8 engine. While the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach GLS 600 are also fitted with twin-turbo V8 engines that produce 603-hp and 550-hp respectively. Despite all their differences, all models feature a nine-speed automatic transmission system. All of these engines are energetic and even the inline-six maintains a lively performance due to its mild-hybrid EQ boost system.
Interior
The 2021 Mercedes GLS offers more space than most of the vehicles in its class. Whether you decide to have all of its seats up or not, you’ll still have enough space to keep your things and seat passengers. Asides from the Maybach model, the 2021 Mercedes GLS is a three-row SUV that can seat a maximum of seven people. The 2021 Maybach GLS has just two rows and can seat only a maximum of 7 people. If you’d like to strap your toddler in, these Benz SUVs have 4 sets of LATCH connectors.
The GLS has a beautiful cabin made from high-quality materials to make it appear just like a luxury SUV. There’s quality leather and stitching on the seats, including a wooden trim. There’s a remarkable MBUX infotainment system that has a great sound output, but you’ll have to spend some time learning how to operate it.
Fuel Economy
The GLS models have reasonable fuel economy ratings, which means driving one of them around won’t cause a hole in your pocket. The GLS 450 runs at 20mpg in the city and 24mpg on the highway. The GLS 580 has a rating of 16mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The luxurious Maybach GLS 600 sets a 15/19 mpg city/highway rating. The AMG GLS 63 performs poorly in this category with a 14/18 mpg city/highway fuel economy rating.
Handling
Despite its large size, this vehicle handles well and moves smoothly. It maintains direction in windy situations and takes curves cleanly. The SUV is a dream to drive, and things get even better when you opt for E-active Body Control.
Off-Road Performance
While you may have no reason to drive this exquisite vehicle into rough conditions, it may serve you better to know that it can handle itself off the pavement. The car features hill descent control, an off-road package, and adjustable ride height to get it out of tricky spots.
Price
The Mercedes Benz GLS 450 model comes with a base price of $76,000, which is more expensive than many cars in the same bracket. But this base price is still some way off the luxury variance. The high-performance AMG GLS 63 comes in at a whopping price of $132,000. Its close cousin, Mercedes Maybach GLS 600, tops the lot with a breathtaking figure of $160,000.
Is the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS Reliable?
The 2021 GLS has average reliability. That’s because it has a score of 71/100. According to J.D. Power, scores greater than 90 are the best, 80 – 90 is great, 70 – 80 is average, and 0 – 69 is fairly reliable and considered to be with questionable reliability.
Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has been unable to test the 2021 GLS models because they are expensive, luxurious vehicles.
The car is designed with the standard advanced safety features and advanced safety features to protect the driver and passengers.
What People are Saying about the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS?
Many people consider the Mercedes Benz GLS 2021 to be incredibly luxurious and a one-of-a-kind SUV. With positive reviews in websites and top sources, it’s obvious anyone would fancy a dry in this vehicle.
Competitors
The BMW X7 matches up well with the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLS. Both are German SUVs and have many similar features. With breathtaking interiors, a long list of useful features, and unbelievable space for passengers and cargo as well, both cars are a favorite of many car lovers. However, the Mercedes just edges it with smoother, more responsive handling.
Another competitor of the GLS is the Mercedes Benz GLE. Both cars can seat seven passengers and have a similar variety of engine options. Despite being produced by the same manufacturers, both SUVs still have notable differences. To start with, the GLS has more overall space than the GLE. The GLS is also pricier than the GLE with a $20,000 gap.
