The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS stands as a paragon of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of sophisticated design, powerful performance, and advanced technology. As the flagship SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLS provides a spacious and comfortable cabin, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking premium features and capabilities. This article delves into the key aspects of the 2019 GLS, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and automotive enthusiasts.
Exterior Elegance and Design
The exterior of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS exudes a commanding presence with its bold lines and refined styling. The vehicle showcases a prominent grille, flanked by signature LED headlights that enhance visibility and contribute to its modern aesthetic. The aerodynamic contours and sculpted body panels not only improve fuel efficiency but also add to the overall visual appeal. Chrome accents strategically placed around the windows, door handles, and bumpers elevate its luxurious character.
Alt Text: Front view of a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS showcasing its bold grille and LED headlights.
The GLS offers a range of wheel options, from standard alloy wheels to larger, more stylish designs, allowing for personalization. The robust stance and high ground clearance signal its SUV capabilities, while the elegant silhouette ensures it remains distinctly a Mercedes-Benz. The rear design is equally sophisticated, featuring LED taillights and a chrome strip that spans the width of the liftgate, further emphasizing its premium status.
Interior Luxury and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS reveals a cabin meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail. Leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and metallic accents create an ambiance of refined luxury. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows, ensuring ample legroom and headroom even for adults in the second and third rows.
Alt Text: Luxurious interior of a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS, highlighting leather seats and wood trim.
The front seats are designed for ultimate comfort, offering multiple adjustments, heating, and ventilation options. The second-row seats can be configured in various ways to optimize passenger space or cargo capacity. The third-row seats, while primarily intended for occasional use, are still more accommodating than many competitors in the segment. The panoramic sunroof, available as an option, further enhances the sense of spaciousness and brings in natural light.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a range of powerful engine options to suit different driving preferences. The base GLS 450 model is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine, delivering ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. For those seeking more performance, the GLS 550 features a robust 4.7-liter V8 biturbo engine that provides exhilarating acceleration and towing capability.
Stated rates of acceleration are estimated based upon manufacturer’s track results and may vary depending on model, environmental and road surface conditions, driving style, elevation and vehicle load.
Both engines are paired with a smooth and responsive 9-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, ensuring confident handling and traction in various weather conditions. The AIRMATIC® suspension system further enhances ride comfort, adapting to road conditions and driving dynamics for a smooth and controlled driving experience.
Alt Text: Engine bay of a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS showcasing its powerful engine.
EPA estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated mpg to the estimated mpg of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.
Technology and Innovation
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS is equipped with a suite of advanced technology features designed to enhance convenience, entertainment, and connectivity. The COMAND® infotainment system, controlled via a central touchpad and rotary controller, provides access to navigation, media, vehicle settings, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto.
Apple CarPlay® is a product of Apple Inc. Android Auto is a product of Google Inc. Device and app providers’ terms and privacy statements apply. Requires connected compatible device and data plan.
Available features include a premium Harman Kardon® sound system, rear-seat entertainment system, and a head-up display that projects important driving information onto the windshield. Mercedes me connect services offer remote access to vehicle functions, emergency assistance, and vehicle monitoring, further enhancing the ownership experience.
Requires an active Mercedes me connect account, available at no charge. See Operator’s Manual for additional information.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2019 GLS is equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features and driver assistance systems. Standard features include active brake assist, blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, and a rearview camera. Optional systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS® adaptive cruise control, active lane keeping assist, and PRE-SAFE® PLUS further enhance safety and driver confidence.
Some systems are optional. Even the most advanced safety systems may not be sufficient to avoid an accident. It is the driver’s responsibility at all times to be attentive to traffic and road conditions, and to provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to retain control of the vehicle.
The robust construction of the GLS and its advanced safety technologies contribute to its excellent safety ratings, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Towing and Utility
For those requiring towing capability, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a substantial towing capacity when properly equipped. With the optional trailer hitch, the GLS can tow trailers and recreational vehicles, making it a versatile choice for families with active lifestyles.
With optional trailer hitch. Read Operator’s Manual before towing. In some states, aftermarket trailer brakes are required. See dealer for details.
The spacious cargo area behind the third-row seats provides ample room for luggage and everyday items. Folding down the second and third-row seats expands the cargo space significantly, making the GLS capable of hauling larger items when needed.
Conclusion: The Epitome of Luxury SUVs
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS represents the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, offering a compelling combination of opulence, performance, and versatility. Its elegant design, luxurious interior, powerful engine options, and advanced technology make it a standout choice in its class. Whether for daily commutes, family road trips, or towing needs, the GLS delivers a premium driving experience that is distinctly Mercedes-Benz. For those seeking a top-tier SUV that doesn’t compromise on luxury or capability, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS is an exceptional option.
