The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class stands as a paragon of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of sophisticated comfort, robust performance, and advanced technology. This model year presented a compelling range of options for discerning buyers, from the well-equipped GLS 450 to the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Let’s delve into the details that make the 2017 GLS Class a standout in its segment.
Exterior Elegance and Practical Features
The GLS 450 model immediately impresses with its standard 19-inch alloy wheels, providing a confident stance and smooth ride. The inclusion of a self-leveling air suspension system ensures optimal comfort and stability across various terrains. Power-folding, auto-dimming side mirrors add convenience and safety, while automatic headlights and LED running lights and taillights enhance visibility and modern aesthetics. A sunroof brings natural light into the cabin, and automatic wipers simplify driving in inclement weather. Roof rails add practicality for cargo management, and rear privacy glass enhances passenger comfort and security. The power liftgate offers easy access to the cargo area, and the Mbrace Connect remote vehicle access system, accessible via a smartphone app, includes remote start functionality for added convenience.
Every 2017 GLS-Class model is equipped with all-wheel drive, ensuring confident traction in diverse driving conditions. A multimode terrain selector located on the center console allows drivers to optimize vehicle settings for various surfaces, further enhancing its versatility.
Interior Luxury and Technological Sophistication
Stepping inside the 2017 GLS Class reveals an interior meticulously crafted for comfort and convenience. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provides a luxurious feel and durability, while heated front seats ensure comfort in colder climates. The 10-way power driver’s seat, complete with four-way power lumbar support, allows for personalized comfort, and driver-seat memory settings add convenience for multiple drivers. A power-adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel enhances the premium feel, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror and genuine wood trim elevate the cabin’s ambiance. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passenger.
The COMAND infotainment interface, featuring both a control knob and a touchpad, offers intuitive control over the vehicle’s systems. An 8-inch central display provides clear visuals, and a rearview camera enhances safety during parking and maneuvering. Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless smartphone integration, and a 115-volt household-style power outlet adds practicality for charging devices. The standard sound system, featuring HD radio and dual USB ports, provides a rich audio experience.
Optional Packages and Upgrades
For those seeking even more features, the Premium package available for GLS 450 and GLS 550 models adds keyless entry and ignition for enhanced convenience. A power front passenger seat with memory settings mirrors the driver’s side functionality, and lighted door sills and multicolor ambient lighting create a welcoming and customizable interior atmosphere. The inclusion of a navigation system with real-time traffic updates ensures efficient route planning, and voice controls offer hands-free operation of various systems. Apple CarPlay integration provides seamless smartphone connectivity, and satellite radio expands entertainment options. This package also includes key safety features, which will be discussed further in the Safety section.
The Lighting package enhances visibility with adaptive LED headlights and automatic high beams, optimizing illumination for different driving conditions. The Parking Assist package adds front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view camera system, making parking in tight spaces easier and safer.
Further standalone options include three-zone automatic climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, ventilated front seats for cooling comfort in warm weather, and luxurious leather upholstery. Audiophiles can upgrade to a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with a CD/DVD player and SD card reader for expanded media options. “Multicontour” front seats, featuring a massaging function and adjustable side bolsters and shoulder supports, offer ultimate comfort on long journeys.
GLS 550 and AMG GLS 63: Stepping Up in Performance and Luxury
The GLS 550 builds upon the GLS 450’s foundation, including many of the aforementioned features as standard. It distinguishes itself with a more powerful V8 engine, 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for enhanced handling, and sporty exterior styling cues. Soft-close doors add a touch of luxury, and upgraded interior trim, including wood steering-wheel inserts, elevates the cabin’s sophistication. The optional Night package for the GLS 550 adds 21-inch black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents for a more aggressive aesthetic.
For ultimate performance, the AMG GLS 63 starts with a comprehensive feature set and adds an even more potent V8 engine, a sport exhaust system for an exhilarating sound, and exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels. A sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes deliver dynamic handling, and adaptive stabilizer bars (“Active Curve System”) further enhance cornering capabilities. AMG-specific styling elements inside and out and enhanced bolstering for the front seats create a sporty and luxurious ambiance. Upgraded leather upholstery with a complimentary headliner and a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel complete the AMG experience.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged gasoline V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides a balanced combination of performance and efficiency. The GLS 550 boasts a 4.6-liter V8 engine that generates 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, delivering significantly enhanced power and acceleration. All GLS 450 and GLS 550 models come standard with all-wheel drive and a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission.
The AMG GLS 63 takes performance to an extreme level with its 5.5-liter V8 engine, delivering an astonishing 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque. This model is paired with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission, optimized for performance driving.
Fuel Economy and Towing Capability
According to EPA estimates, the 2017 GLS 450 achieves 19 mpg combined (17 city/22 highway). The GLS 550 is rated at 16 mpg combined (14 city/18 highway), and the high-performance AMG GLS 63 achieves 14 mpg combined (13 city/17 highway).
All 2017 GLS-Class models are capable of towing up to a substantial 7,500 pounds when properly equipped, adding to their versatility and utility.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. From the well-appointed GLS 450 to the exhilarating AMG GLS 63, there’s a model to suit a range of preferences and needs. Its comprehensive list of standard and optional features, powerful engine options, and robust towing capability solidify its position as a leader in the luxury SUV segment. For those seeking a premium SUV experience, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Class remains a highly desirable choice.
