Mercedes GLS 350d, car review: Overhauled big Merc is an SUV reborn

Mercedes-Benz’s seven-seater has undergone something of a personality transplant, with a price rise to match

It’s still no full-on off-roader, but you’ll get somewhere close with the various all-terrain mode

It was the GL, but it’s now the GLS – and it gets fresh styling and more interior appointments, too.

Yes, Mercedes-Benz’s large seven-seater SUV has undergone something of a personality transplant, and the corresponding price rise moves it up from the same class as the Audi Q7 to that of the Range Rover Sport. It’s still no full-on off-roader in the pure Rangie vein, but you’ll get somewhere close with the various all-terrain modes. The full-fat Off-road Package will set you back a further £2000-odd.

With a new, higher-class AMG Line entry spec, Merc has strived to bestow the GLS with an S-Class feel. Refinement in the spacious and high-spec cabin is certainly impressive. The wood, leather and plastics used are top-notch, as is the new 8.0-inch infotainment set-up which also boasts a 360-degree camera.

Refinement in the spacious and high-spec cabin is certainly impressive

Visibility out from the high-set driving position is good, too. Luggage space is 680 litres with the third row of seats folded flat via an electronic switch; it grows quite cavernous with the second row flipped forward as well. And even when each seat is occupied by an adult, there’s still a surprising amount of space.

Mercedes GLS 350d

• Engine size: 3.0-litre diesel
• Price from: £69,100
• Power: 255bhp
• Torque: 457lb ft
• 0-62mph: 7.8 seconds
• Top speed: 138mph
• Fuel economy: 37.2mpg
• CO2: 199g/km

They are treated to a very comfortable ride. Few road or wind noises or surface imperfections are transmitted through to the cabin, and the adaptive air-suspension keeps everything in check.

The chassis system has five modes, ranging from Comfort to Slippery, Sport, Off-road and Individual. And you’d expect, the first of these is optimum for comfortable progress. Surprisingly agile handling belies the four-wheel-drive GLS’s bulk as well.


 The 3.0-litre V6 diesel now produces 255bhp and 457lb ft of torque

The 3.0-litre V6 diesel – the UK’s anticipated big seller – now produces 255bhp and 457lb ft of torque. Charged with pulling a 2.5-tonne vehicle, it puts its muscle down via a new, smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission that’s tuned to work with rather than against the torque. As a result, progress is strong and steady rather than frenetic.

As mentioned, the AMG Line’s £69,100 list price is higher than before, but better efficiency figures of 37.2mpg and 199g/km of CO2 emissions – down from 209g/km – will slightly improve running costs. The GLS is still a lot of money though. Audi’s new Q7 SE outclasses it in virtually every area and it’s nearly £20k cheaper. Might be worth a look instead…