Effortless Highway Cruising
The journey with the Mercedes-Benz GLS has reached the 19,000-kilometer mark, and it continues to impress with its ability to cover vast distances in absolute
comfort. Even with its considerable 5.2-meter length, the vehicle feels surprisingly manageable, thanks to a responsive steering system and a potent 750 Nm of torque from its engine. The drive from Pune via the expressway was a masterclass in refinement, akin to traveling in a private jet. The luxurious seats, coupled with the exceptionally quiet cabin, allow occupants to truly relax and unwind. The powerful diesel engine offers ample grunt, making ascents through challenging terrain feel effortless. The overall experience is one of seamless progress, with the vehicle adeptly consuming kilometers without inducing fatigue, a testament to its design and engineering.
Powertrain and Refinement
The OM656 straight-six diesel engine powering the GLS has been a standout feature throughout the 19,000-kilometer test. This powerplant is remarkably smooth and eager to rev, providing a driving experience often not associated with diesel engines. The integration of the 48-volt mild-hybrid system is seamless, contributing to the overall refined feel. While modern emissions regulations have led to a less pronounced spike in power delivery compared to older V6 diesels, the trade-off for increased smoothness is a welcome one. The engine's responsiveness, even with its substantial power, contributes to the effortless cruising capabilities. This combination of a potent, yet refined diesel engine and the mild-hybrid system creates a driving experience that is both powerful and exceptionally comfortable, especially on extended journeys.
Handling and Ride Quality
Despite its imposing size, the GLS exhibits a surprising degree of agility, largely attributable to its finely tuned steering. The quick and precisely weighted steering system makes the large SUV feel more compact and controlled, allowing the driver to confidently maneuver through various conditions. However, the vehicle's performance on less-than-perfect roads revealed some limitations. On stretches with large ruts and deep potholes, the ride could become somewhat unsettled, with noticeable lateral movement from the rear. While the adjustable air suspension aims to mitigate such issues, it did not always cope as gracefully as anticipated with severe road imperfections. This suggests that while the GLS excels on smooth surfaces, its comfort can be compromised by significantly broken terrain.
Interior Comfort and Space
The interior of the GLS is a sanctuary of luxury and space, particularly evident when experiencing it from the rear seats. Ample legroom and generously sized, well-bolstered seats ensure that even the longest journeys are undertaken in supreme comfort. The ability to recline the backrest and utilize the center armrest further enhances the passenger experience, creating a business-class environment. The cabin is characterized by excellent build quality and a pervasive sense of hush, with minimal intrusion from the road or the diesel engine. Even on a recent journey back from Pune after dinner, the rear cabin provided such a relaxing atmosphere that drifting off to sleep was a natural consequence. The inclusion of multiple screens in the rear adds to the entertainment options, though the inherent quality and comfort of the cabin often take precedence.
Minor Ergonomic Observations
While the overall ownership experience of the GLS over 19,000 kilometers has been overwhelmingly positive, a few minor ergonomic points warrant mention. The haptic touchpad located on the center console, while functional, is seldom used and occupies valuable space that could be better utilized. Furthermore, the running boards, designed to aid entry and exit, can be somewhat challenging to use without slipping. They also protrude just enough to potentially cause minor discomfort or scuffs on one's ankle. These are relatively small criticisms in the grand scheme of the vehicle's luxurious and capable offering, but they represent areas where the user interface and physical design could be refined for even greater convenience and practicality.
