Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

The cabin of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is posh. The colours and materials genuinely set the SUV apart with a plush, lounge-type feeling. The interior now gets Maybach-theme black wood with pinstripes. There's more chrome around the switches and vents along with the neat new shade of brown for the seats and rest of the upholstery. The wood has a smooth finishing but the metallic bits feel a bit hefty. But soft materials are spread all across the cabin. There are tactile switches for climate control. The dashboard is dominated by two 12.3-inch touchscreen units, one for infotainment and the other for driver's information. The display is clear. Audio from the 13-speaker Burmester Surround Sound system is crisp. With all seats up, there's 355 litres of boot space.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is very big and imposing. But there's not much difference with the pre-update model. The most noticeable change is the bigger four-bar grille with a huge Mercedes-Benz logo at the centre. Mercedes-Benz claims that the GLS is G-Class-Inspired and adds toughness to the former while retaining the rich look. The car also gets new pixel LED lamps. The new bumpers get textured inserts along with measured chrome adornments. These make the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class stand out among rivals. There's not much change to the bodywork, and the GLS retains its stately look. The rounded bodywork, heavy haunches, and glass area are still effective and simple. The lights in the taillamps get a horizontal design, in line with the new Mercedes SUVs. They make the GLS-Class look larger. The car runs on 21-inch alloy wheels. An inch larger would have looked better. 

The cabin of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is among the most spacious in its segment. The driver's seat gets plenty of adjustability. Finding the perfect driving position is no problem at all. The wide windscreen offers a great view of the road ahead. The second row gets optional captain's chairs with electrical adjustments. But even with the bench-type seat, there's lots of legroom and headroom. The seats have great cushioning but are a bit on the firmer side. The third row is actually spacious and can accommodate two adults. But getting into the third row is a bit troublesome because moving the second row takes time. The car rides on comfortable air suspension that absorbs smaller bumps and potholes. There's a bit of suspension movement, though. While cruising, the suspension seems to be floaty. There's also a bit of a body roll though it never upsets the travelling comfort.   

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is equipped with a twin-turbocharged, eight-cylinder, 4.7-litre petrol engine that produces 455 PS/700 Nm. The motor is mated to an all-wheel-drive nine-speed automatic. The powertrain feels strong and responsive. A new mild-hybrid system further boosts performance. On highways, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class comes across as a decent cruiser. Handling is easy with the light and nicely balanced steering. This isn't a sports car, but the GLS doesn't disappoint on twisty roads.  

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class comes with a number of driver-assist features and safety equipment. It gets a 360-degree that eliminates all blind spots. The car gets parking sensors, multiple airbags, and the optional semi-autonomous driving mode. The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 PNCS tires stop the car instantly.

At a starting price of AED 425,000, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is among the most comfortable and luxurious cars in its segment. The rich cabin comes with a lot of equipment. It's the best car for buyers wanting a truly premium family SUV.