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Random question most likely not suitable for this forum, but any votes of an SUV that has a level of build quality and luxury of an S Class? I’ve gotten spoiled by every S Class I’ve owned and I’m curious if there are thoughts on an SUV brand and model that would most equate? My wife has a Cadillac XT5 and I’m constantly disappointed with the build quality. Has a lot of similar creature comforts but definitely does not meet S class levels. We have been thinking of replacing her vehicle and I’m looking for thoughts. I don’t think an Escalade is the right replacement. Range Rover LWB is the closest I’m coming up with although their reliability is questionable. However, that’s a bit anecdotal. People say that about MB often and I’ve not found that to be true.. my experience is a well maintained MB is solidly built and looks great even at 10 years old. I’m looking for a similar SUV. I don’t think the GLS is it either but… open to votes. Thank you.
Really the only one is the full Range Rover. Thats the only SUV I have ever driven where I don't feel like I would give up anything from a car like the S Class.
There are other SUVs that are really nice, BMW X7 is awesome, Benz GLS is very nice, Lincoln Navigators are very nice so are Escalades, but none of them give you that total quality feeling and ultra refinement like you get from an S Class...but the Range Rover does.
But reliability being terrible is not anecdotal, its terrible. I know lots of people with Range Rovers I don't know one person who hasn't had some level of problems. Some minor, some extremely major. I very well may have gotten one instead of my S560 if it weren't for that. And JD power, look how poor they rate:
In terms of ride quality and comfort, the Full-Size Range Rover is definitely the closest, albeit the tech is abysmal, there’s still some cheap plastics about the cabin, and RR reliability is YMMV. Apparently a new RR is destined to premiere soon for a 2023 Model.
The GLS-Maybach is the only form of GLS that I find to be close to the saying of “The S-Class of SUV’s.” The X7 rides decently, but not S-Class level of comfort, and the looks are a bit cartoonish. Its a bit difficult to find an S-Class of SUV’s without going towards uber luxury brands like Rolls or Bentley. A lot of the so called “flagship” SUV’s, are mainly only flagship in size, as both the GLS and X7 are really just extended wheelbase versions of their mid-size siblings (GLE, X5).
I had a Porsche Cayenne in the past and really loved that car. I thought the build quality was on a par with my S-Class and it was completely trouble-free. Stunning interiors. HUGE range of pricing, depending on what model and trim you choose, but I think that's a good thing. I'd definitely buy one again if/when I need another SUV. Far less troublesome than a Range Rover.
I second this. I have had 5 Escalades (most platinum), a fairly loaded GL and I have driven numerous full size Range Rovers (including autobiography). None ride anywhere close to an S class. I heard someone on this forum once say the full size RR rode similar and I couldn't disagree more. They all ride like trucks, luxury trucks yes, but they are not in the same universe as an S class. The biggest issue is this unending love for 21" or 22" rims which really compromise ride quality. I have driven E's on 20" rims with snow tires and the ride improves dramatically. As far as overall refinement the RR is closest. Everything is just buttoned down and tight, the overall experience is luxury from drive to looks in and out to dealership experience. The best interior? Hands down the Nav black label. It is nicer than the S class, and not just in my opinion. I've seen several reviews saying to you have to go to Rolls or Bentley to get a nicer interior. It speaks of old world luxury mixed with modern influences. Especially in the chalet theme. It's one of the few modern vehicles where you can get such a different interior depending on the model. Go see a regular Nav and it's ok, see a yacht theme and meh, but the chalet is stunning. The exterior is beautiful but up close you can see panel fitment is not perfect- but I can live with that. It rides better than an escalade and the engine is far more refined. I would compare it closely to the RR but not quite as good, a lot having to do on what size rims the RR has. Now the dealership experience is not up to luxury standings from where I sit but that could just be my local dealer.
Random question most likely not suitable for this forum, but any votes of an SUV that has a level of build quality and luxury of an S Class? I’ve gotten spoiled by every S Class I’ve owned and I’m curious if there are thoughts on an SUV brand and model that would most equate?
Originally Posted by SW20S
Doesn't feel as premium as the S Class, Porsche doesnt have the luxurious ride.
I think the build quality of the Nav is pretty darn close to the S, especially if you opt for the Black Label. Luxury features in the Nav BL actually surpass the W222, unless you opted for the Maybach, S600, or S65 which are on par with the BL. And the Lincoln is pretty much at or near the top for reliability and resale for luxury utes.
No SUV will have the same driving experience as a car like the S class due to their suspensions, height, and handling dynamics.
PFL205.064 with M276.823 (Oil pump solenoid defeated)
I understand the post above me mentioned the driving experience won't be like an S-Class due to the things mentioned above. I am however curious why does OP think the GLS isn't either (genuinely want to know your thoughts) and how others think of the GLS (especially the X167) in terms of how close or how far it is to the W222 or even the W223. I mean, my thinking was, it was made by MB and they claim it was the "S-Class of SUVs" (their exact words), shouldn't it be the most close to an actual S-Class? Otherwise based on what everyone here is saying, we can conclude that Mercedes wasn't successful in turning their GLS into a genuine S-Class and delivering such promise and to serve such purpose. Curious to hear about everyone's opinion, thank you : )
II heard someone on this forum once say the full size RR rode similar and I couldn't disagree more. They all ride like trucks, luxury trucks yes, but they are not in the same universe as an S class. The biggest issue is this unending love for 21" or 22" rims which really compromise ride quality.
I would recommend driving a Range Rover without the 21/22 inch wheels. I drove the S Class and the Range Rover back to back multiple times, and the Range Rover rides almost as well as the S Class, at least when they are not on huge wheels. The 21s on the RR have pretty thick sidewalls though. The Range Rover is not a truck, its a unibody vehicle.
Every review of the Range Rover praises the soft ride too.
I understand the post above me mentioned the driving experience won't be like an S-Class due to the things mentioned above. I am however curious why does OP think the GLS isn't either (genuinely want to know your thoughts) and how others think of the GLS (especially the X167) in terms of how close or how far it is to the W222 or even the W223. I mean, my thinking was, it was made by MB and they claim it was the "S-Class of SUVs" (their exact words), shouldn't it be the most close to an actual S-Class? Otherwise based on what everyone here is saying, we can conclude that Mercedes wasn't successful in turning their GLS into a genuine S-Class and delivering such promise and to serve such purpose. Curious to hear about everyone's opinion, thank you : )
It just doesnt feel as refined on the road, and doesn't feel "special". It rides nice...but its hard to describe.
PFL205.064 with M276.823 (Oil pump solenoid defeated)
Originally Posted by DaveW68
The Land Rover could ride like a RR, but I'd never consider one due to their poor reliability, high cost of repair, and poor resale value.
I wonder if they designed those vehicles with people leasing in mind, instead. That being said, even for those who lease, it is probably not fun if the car spends more time in the shop than in their driveway.
The Land Rover could ride like a RR, but I'd never consider one due to their poor reliability, high cost of repair, and poor resale value.
Thats the truth. One of the big reasons why I haven't gotten one.
Originally Posted by W205C43PFL
I wonder if they designed those vehicles with people leasing in mind, instead. That being said, even for those who lease, it is probably not fun if the car spends more time in the shop than in their driveway.
Even with leasing, I know a bunch of people with them and all of them have had at least some sort of problems.
Originally Posted by SB_NYC
RR LWB. Better than an S.
I wouldnt go that far.
Also, reliability is fine. That anecdote you mentioned is for the 2005 and earlier models.
Uh, no lol. Like I said, I know lots of people with modern Range Rovers and the reliability issues are very real. Land Rover is also at the bottom of every single reliability ranking I have ever seen.
I understand the post above me mentioned the driving experience won't be like an S-Class due to the things mentioned above. I am however curious why does OP think the GLS isn't either (genuinely want to know your thoughts) and how others think of the GLS (especially the X167) in terms of how close or how far it is to the W222 or even the W223. I mean, my thinking was, it was made by MB and they claim it was the "S-Class of SUVs" (their exact words), shouldn't it be the most close to an actual S-Class? Otherwise based on what everyone here is saying, we can conclude that Mercedes wasn't successful in turning their GLS into a genuine S-Class and delivering such promise and to serve such purpose. Curious to hear about everyone's opinion, thank you : )
That was all marketing hype. GLS is an extended GLE period, interior finishes the same. Made in the same factory with much of the same parts. It's like saying the S is an extended E, which its not even close to being. Base model GLS has MB-tex as a starter, leather an upgrade. Enough said? Jump over to the 167 forums and check out the level of QC issues. Do you think the GLS will age well? A well maintained S will always look elegant.
PFL205.064 with M276.823 (Oil pump solenoid defeated)
Originally Posted by places
That was all marketing hype. GLS is an extended GLE period, interior finishes the same. Made in the same factory with much of the same parts. It's like saying the S is an extended E, which its not even close to being. Base model GLS has MB-tex as a starter, leather an upgrade. Enough said? Jump over to the 167 forums and check out the level of QC issues. Do you think the GLS will age well? A well maintained S will always look elegant.
Thanks for your explanation, yup, I hear lots of complains with the GLS. Another complaint especially with the build quality I hear from GLS and GLE owners stating how it may be because their trucks are both manufactured in the Alabama plant, while the W222 and W223 are made in Germany. I wonder if that plays a role at all.
I am curious if the GLS Maybach is close enough to the W222 Maybach or it is yet another marketing hype.
Thanks for your explanation, yup, I hear lots of complains with the GLS. Another complaint especially with the build quality I hear from GLS and GLE owners stating how it may be because their trucks are both manufactured in the Alabama plant, while the W222 and W223 are made in Germany. I wonder if that plays a role at all.
I am curious if the GLS Maybach is close enough to the W222 Maybach or it is yet another marketing hype.
Hype there too. Same quality GLS as extended GLE with heavy on the leather, trim, rear seating, and badging. Imagine how it will look in 3 years, will get dated fast. Remove the badges and quite underwhelming IMO. Mercedes wants to expand on the Maybach brand like they have been able to do with AMG, GLS is logical next step. For what its worth they are selling incredibly well, but I still find them subpar for the price. Probably a comfortable vehicle to be driven around in but not own. Still not same level as S.
Also, reliability is fine. That anecdote you mentioned is for the 2005 and earlier models.
That is laughable. If you think a Range Rover drives better than an S then please don't pass me what you are smoking.
Originally Posted by SW20S
I would recommend driving a Range Rover without the 21/22 inch wheels. I drove the S Class and the Range Rover back to back multiple times, and the Range Rover rides almost as well as the S Class, at least when they are not on huge wheels. The 21s on the RR have pretty thick sidewalls though. The Range Rover is not a truck, its a unibody vehicle.
Every review of the Range Rover praises the soft ride too.
I have driven one on 20's but sorry - I don't find it any where close to an S. Don't get me wrong it is a great truck, if it wasn't so small I'd own one. But it doesn't have anywhere near the ride refinement of an S class. From the body motion control, to quietness to suspension control the S just does it all better than the range. And by all counts and measures it should, one is a truck and one is a sedan.
PFL205.064 with M276.823 (Oil pump solenoid defeated)
Originally Posted by places
Hype there too. Same quality GLS as extended GLE with heavy on the leather, trim, rear seating, and badging. Imagine how it will look in 3 years, will get dated fast. Remove the badges and quite underwhelming IMO. Mercedes wants to expand on the Maybach brand like they have been able to do with AMG, GLS is logical next step. For what its worth they are selling incredibly well, but I still find them subpar for the price. Probably a comfortable vehicle to be driven around in but not own. Still not same level as S.
I see, thanks for your reply. It is a shame but I guess it is what it is, nowadays it truly is like what you stated, all just marketing. Yup, I don't think anyone could identify it as a Maybach if it wasn't the badging either. The colour and special grille may or may not help.
08-06-2021, 02:16 PM
