Thinking of buying GLS450 AWD




Last edited by wildta; Dec 16, 2024 at 03:20 PM.




The inline-6 M256 engine is incredibly reliable. Read some technical papers to understand why. It’s also a newly designed core (around 2017), not based on an older platform or core with minor updates. The 48V system, which I initially disliked but now appreciate, seems to stabilize and reduce engine stress. If you program the car to stay in eco-pro mode, the engine will “sail” and shut off even when the car is moving while you’re not accelerating. I think this should extend the engine’s life or improve its mileage compared to the odometer. I’ve driven from one state to another, and even on a downhill stretch, I could drive 5 miles+ with the engine off. Similarly, in city driving, you can coast to stop signs and traffic lights if you time your stopping distance naturally.
Based on my experience, this is the only Benz engine I’ve driven in the past 10 years that truly harmonizes just fine with the trashyBenz transmission without causing excessive hard shifting (although some GLE owners have reported issues). My 22 GLS 450 shifts just as smoothly as my BMWs. This is the only MBenz I’ve driven in the past decade that shifts flawlessly like other German cars, and it’s consistent across all the 450s I’ve tested-driven (so my experience isn’t just a lucky one-of-a-kind situation).
Having owned an X5, X7, and previously a Lincoln Navigator, I can confidently say that our GLS is the only SUV that offers the best of both worlds: the benefits of vans and SUVs, without any compromises while still driving like a smaller car compared to its actual size. It also has great ground clearance. There is plenty of space for off-road or rough routes without compromising on comfort. The comfort level is really great…. The sound insulation is excellent.. it is so quiet even with larger AMG wheels. Most of my other SUVs had a noticeable annoying sound from the rear tailgate, this one doesn’t.
The X167 in general is practical too, easily fitting six adults and all their luggage. I have a rooftop cargo carrier that allows my family and visitors to sit in the car, travel long distances comfortably without any issues.
The second row of seats in the GLS is well designed. The tunnel between the seats is wide enough for adults to pass through and access the third row, unlike the tight tunnel in my previous X7. The movement of the second row also allows the child car seat to stay on the seat while electronically moving forward and tilting for third-row access …. Not too slow nor too fast.
I also like the driver’s seat in the X167…. great view, a very comfortable seat, and excellent cooling and ventilation if you don’t get the massage seats. There are now new leather options available, but I highly recommend trying the MBTEX leather before making a choice. It’s easier to clean and incredibly soft, which I love. BMW vegan leather is still superior, but I believe the automotive industry has reached a point where vegan leather is comparable in quality in some cars and can even be better in some cases.
I know some of this is not just for 450 but for X167 more broadly, but just wanted to share my experience. It’s an AWESOME SUV
Last edited by S_W222; Dec 17, 2024 at 06:25 AM.
The inline-6 M256 engine is incredibly reliable. Read some technical papers to understand why. It’s also a newly designed core (around 2017), not based on an older platform or core with minor updates. The 48V system, which I initially disliked but now appreciate, seems to stabilize and reduce engine stress. If you program the car to stay in eco-pro mode, the engine will “sail” and shut off even when the car is moving while you’re not accelerating. I think this should extend the engine’s life or improve its mileage compared to the odometer. I’ve driven from one state to another, and even on a downhill stretch, I could drive 5 miles+ with the engine off. Similarly, in city driving, you can coast to stop signs and traffic lights if you time your stopping distance naturally.
Based on my experience, this is the only Benz engine I’ve driven in the past 10 years that truly harmonizes just fine with the trashyBenz transmission without causing excessive hard shifting (although some GLE owners have reported issues). My 22 GLS 450 shifts just as smoothly as my BMWs. This is the only MBenz I’ve driven in the past decade that shifts flawlessly like other German cars, and it’s consistent across all the 450s I’ve tested-driven (so my experience isn’t just a lucky one-of-a-kind situation).
Having owned an X5, X7, and previously a Lincoln Navigator, I can confidently say that our GLS is the only SUV that offers the best of both worlds: the benefits of vans and SUVs, without any compromises while still driving like a smaller car compared to its actual size. It also has great ground clearance. There is plenty of space for off-road or rough routes without compromising on comfort. The comfort level is really great…. The sound insulation is excellent.. it is so quiet even with larger AMG wheels. Most of my other SUVs had a noticeable annoying sound from the rear tailgate, this one doesn’t.
The X167 in general is practical too, easily fitting six adults and all their luggage. I have a rooftop cargo carrier that allows my family and visitors to sit in the car, travel long distances comfortably without any issues.
The second row of seats in the GLS is well designed. The tunnel between the seats is wide enough for adults to pass through and access the third row, unlike the tight tunnel in my previous X7. The movement of the second row also allows the child car seat to stay on the seat while electronically moving forward and tilting for third-row access …. Not too slow nor too fast.
I also like the driver’s seat in the X167…. great view, a very comfortable seat, and excellent cooling and ventilation if you don’t get the massage seats. There are now new leather options available, but I highly recommend trying the MBTEX leather before making a choice. It’s easier to clean and incredibly soft, which I love. BMW vegan leather is still superior, but I believe the automotive industry has reached a point where vegan leather is comparable in quality in some cars and can even be better in some cases.
I know some of this is not just for 450 but for X167 more broadly, but just wanted to share my experience. It’s an AWESOME SUV
For the GLS, it is getting vertical stars:
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/2...ts-239284.html
https://carbuzz.com/spy-shots-merced...december-2024/
For the GLS, it is getting vertical stars:
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/2...ts-239284.html
https://carbuzz.com/spy-shots-merced...december-2024/




I have a similar view of the monster Star in the grille, but it's been gigantic for for a couple of decades. I feel like I'm a poseur or status seeker.
Reminds me of '80s VW grille emblems with the Beastie Boys wannabe's.


