The other day, I wrote my impressions after test-driving the Mercedes-Benz GLS, and this time, I’d like to share my husband’s thoughts.

Mercedes-Benz GLS Test Drive

Recently, my wife and I went to test drive the GLS, and I want to share my impressions from that experience.

First, a bit about my Mercedes history: it started with the R171 SLK350, then the R129 SL500, and later the C217 AMG S63 Coupe. My overall impression of this brand is that they build incredibly honest and straightforward cars.

They are never overly sporty, nor do the engine or suspension make excessive claims. Instead, they are a manufacturer that is thoroughly committed to transporting occupants comfortably, safely, and securely, while still offering a driving experience that is far from dull or monotonous.

When considering a comfortable SUV for the family, we prioritized comfort over sporty performance, especially focusing on rear-seat comfort and features. The three candidates were the Mercedes GLS, BMW X7, and Porsche Cayenne. Among these, the Cayenne is slightly smaller but remains on the list due to its appealing driving dynamics and ride comfort.

For this GLS test drive, I focused my attention on the following points:

1. The feel of the diesel engine
2. Ride comfort and overall feel
3. Interior quality and equipment

Inline 6-Cylinder 2.9L Diesel Turbo Engine

Sitting in the driver’s seat and starting the engine, the cabin is remarkably quiet. Vibrations are almost nonexistent, making it extremely comfortable.

Operating the column shifter on the right side of the steering wheel, putting it into drive, and gently pressing the accelerator, the massive 2.5-ton vehicle moves off effortlessly and smoothly.

Given the spacious interior and large exterior, I had imagined it would start moving more slowly, but the moment you press the accelerator, it pleasantly surprises you.

In stop-and-go city traffic, it accelerates and stops smoothly. The 700Nm of torque is very reassuring, and there’s no feeling of power shortage in urban driving. The brakes are excellent too, never overwhelmed by the vehicle’s weight, allowing control without demanding extra attention from the driver—very much in line with Mercedes’ character.

The engine is very quiet and smooth. The smooth revving when pressing the accelerator is so refined that it’s hard to believe it’s a diesel. However, at idle, you can still detect a faint micro-vibration and subtle noise through the steering wheel, revealing its diesel nature.

Well, since I mostly drive gasoline engines, I’m probably more sensitive to this, but for those accustomed to diesels, this engine feels significantly less “diesel-like.”

Driving Feel

Thanks to the huge torque and light steering, the car feels surprisingly nimble despite its size. In terms of ease and comfort of driving, it’s a perfect 100-point car.

That said, before the test drive, I imagined that since it carries the “S” badge, it would have the rich, plush ride quality I experienced when owning the S63 Coupe.

From that perspective, this GLS has a more straightforward, less indulgent ride. At least to me, it lacks the weighty, supple feel of the S-Class. Specifically, the road surface texture and rolling feel fall a bit short of the S-Class level.

Of course, the body shape is very different, so that’s understandable, but still, if it’s going to bear the “S” name, I wish it emphasized “refinement” a bit more over “ease of driving.”

The ride itself is very flat and comfortable in the driver’s seat, with minimal swaying like a boat, and it manages the high center of gravity well. The driver’s seat comfort is unquestionably excellent.

On the other hand, moving to the second-row rear seats to check the ride comfort, you can’t fully hide the typical rear-seat ride shortcomings common to many SUVs, even in the GLS. Of course, it’s not bad by absolute standards, but when comparing driver’s seat and rear seat comfort, the rear seats have more noticeable vertical movement and a swaying sensation.

Perhaps with seven passengers or heavier loads, it would settle better, but after riding with three people, the rear seat comfort simply can’t match a sedan. That said, compared to the previous generation GLS, it’s definitely much improved and considerably better.

Currently, the Japanese-spec GLS400d does not come equipped with the much-talked-about 48V electronically controlled suspension “E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL,” which is a disadvantage. I’d love to try a model with this system or the GLS580, which comes standard with it.

Interior Quality and Equipment

Interior design is largely a matter of personal taste, but I really like it. In particular, I prefer the air vents, which have changed from the large flower-shaped round vents common in other Mercedes models to simple, square shapes.

The interior quality matches the price and never feels cheap. While recent Mercedes sports models often have very thin, firm seats, the GLS seats are thick and comfortable. The rear seats don’t feel neglected either and have ample padding.

The rear seats recline and slide, offering plenty of space. Even tall men can stretch their legs comfortably, though I felt the seat cushion could be a bit longer for better support in that position.

The equipment level is top-notch among imported cars, with cup holder warmers/coolers, seat massage, numerous USB-C ports everywhere, and a wide array of safety features—the list goes on.

In terms of equipment, it’s in a league far above the Cayenne, making its cost performance outstanding.

Mercedes-Benz GLS Overall Impression

This GLS is undoubtedly an easy-to-drive, comfortable SUV. If you can accept its size, it handles city errands and travel without stress, making it an ultra-comfortable vehicle.

On the other hand, as a luxury car priced over 10 million yen, I wish it had a bit more weight and richness in its driving feel. My wife agrees, and compared to the new Cayenne we previously test drove, the Cayenne feels superior in tire contact, smooth rolling, and drivetrain smoothness.

To use a meat analogy, we expected a marbled premium cut but got a surprisingly lean yet tasty and easy-to-eat piece. This lean style will suit some perfectly, but those craving the marbled richness might find it a bit lacking.

That said, I think it’s still too early to fully judge this GLS. I’d like to try the “E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL” equipped model when the chance arises. Our SUV search at home is likely to continue for a while.

*Image source: Mercedes-Benz “The GLS”