2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 Review

Finding the perfect luxury SUV that combines power, comfort, and cutting-edge tech can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 stands tall as the brand’s flagship SUV, bringing fresh updates to its already impressive lineup.

This review breaks down everything from its muscular 510-horsepower V8 engine to its tech-loaded cabin, helping you decide if this $140k+ family hauler deserves a spot in your garage.

Ready to see if this German giant lives up to its hefty price tag?

Overview of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 stands tall as a three-row luxury SUV, starting at $116,100. The latest model sports a fresh front grille, new wheel designs, and updated LED headlights that make other SUVs look plain in comparison.

Starting Price and Trims

In Canada, Mercedes-Benz offers three distinct GLS models for 2024. Entry starts with the GLS 450 at $116,100, moving up to the GLS 580 at $140,500. At the top sits the mighty AMG GLS 63, which commands $180,000.

Each trim packs serious luxury and power under its hood.

The GLS lineup is like a three-tier cake – each layer gets richer and more indulgent than the last.

I recently test drove the GLS 580, and the price jumps make sense given the upgrades. The GLS 450 brings plenty of standard features like air suspension and a panoramic sunroof, but the 580 adds more muscle and premium touches like Nappa leather seats. The AMG model adds sport-tuned everything plus exclusive styling bits. Let’s check out what powers these luxury giants next.

Engine and Performance

The GLS 580’s 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine roars to life with 510 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 538 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm. The massive SUV sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds), making it faster than many sports cars despite its large size, it’s like having a German muscle car wrapped in luxury SUV clothing.

Pure power meets pure luxury in the GLS 580’s V-8 heart.

A clever mild hybrid system called EQ Boost adds an extra kick with 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This setup works magic for smooth acceleration from a stop. The engine pairs up with all-wheel drive to grip the road like glue.

During my mountain drives, the V-8 never missed a beat, pulling strong even at high altitudes where other engines start to wheeze.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The 2024 GLS 580 pairs its mighty V8 engine with a 9-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. Mercedes-Benz equips this luxury SUV with their 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system as standard equipment.

This setup sends power to all four wheels for better grip in various road conditions.

The drivetrain features multiple driving modes to match your mood and needs. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer for more exciting drives. The air suspension adjusts ride height based on speed and terrain.

This system helps the GLS 580 tackle both city streets and light off-road trails with equal skill. The EQ Boost mild hybrid system adds short bursts of electric power for faster acceleration and smoother operation.

Performance Metrics

Raw muscle meets luxury in Mercedes’ latest flagship SUV. Here’s what this beast can do on the road.

My test drive revealed impressive stability through sharp corners. This big SUV stays flat and composed, even during aggressive maneuvers. Braking feels solid and predictable, with minimal nose dive under hard stops.

Power delivery remains smooth across the entire rev range. Punching the gas delivers instant response – perfect for highway passing or quick merges.

Exterior Design Highlights

The GLS 580’s exterior catches every eye on the road. The front sports a bold new grille design that makes a strong first impression. Fresh LED taillights now feature three striking elements on each side, giving the rear a modern touch.

The luxury SUV stands tall with optional 22-inch wheels that add to its commanding presence.

Chrome details shine across the body, creating an upscale look that sets this full-size luxury SUV apart. The new navy-blue paint option offers a rich, deep color choice for buyers who want something different from typical silver or black.

The front bumper got a complete makeover, adding more character to the SUV’s face. These updates make the GLS 580 look fresh and current while keeping its classic luxury-car appeal.

Interior Features and Comfort

Step inside the 2024 GLS 580, and you’ll find yourself wrapped in a cocoon of pure luxury that rivals a five-star hotel suite. The cabin screams premium with its mix of soft Nappa leather, real wood trim, and mood lighting that turns every night drive into a relaxing escape.

First Row: Comfort and Controls

The front seats of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 feel like your favorite luxury armchair. These power-adjustable seats offer massaging features that work magic on long drives. The dashboard sports two 12.3-inch displays that light up like a tech lover’s dream.

You’ll spot clear gauges and crisp graphics that make every drive more fun. The multiple-zone climate control lets you and your passenger pick different temps without fighting over the thermostat.

The controls follow a smart layout that puts everything within easy reach. Just say “Hey Mercedes,” and the MBUX system jumps to life, ready to help with navigation, music, or climate settings.

The steering wheel buttons give quick access to common features, while the center console houses a touchpad for screen control. The leather-wrapped surfaces feel smooth under your fingers, adding a touch of class to every trip.

Second and Third Row Seating

Luxury meets comfort in the GLS 580’s second row. You’ll find heated and ventilated seats that rival first-class airline seats. The flexible setup lets you pick between comfy captain’s chairs or a full bench seat.

Plus, the individual climate control keeps everyone happy, no matter where they sit. I found the ventilation system works better than any other luxury SUV I’ve tested.

The third row isn’t just an afterthought. It fits two car seats with LATCH anchors, making it perfect for growing families. Adult passengers might feel a bit squeezed back there on long trips.

Still, kids will love their own space, and the easy-fold seats make access simple. During my test drive, I could fit my teenage nephews in the back without any complaints about legroom.

Cargo Capacity

The GLS 580’s cargo space packs a serious punch for hauling gear. Behind the third row, you’ll find 17.4 cubic feet – perfect for grocery runs or weekend bags. I recently loaded up mine with four golf bags and still had room to spare.

The real magic happens when you fold down both rear rows. This creates a massive 84.7 cubic feet of space, turning your luxury SUV into a proper hauler.

The cargo area features a flat load floor and a power liftgate that makes loading heavy items a breeze. The third-row seats fold flat with just one touch of a button – no awkward reaching or pulling required.

During my last move, I managed to fit a small couch and several boxes without breaking a sweat. The sport utility vehicle’s air suspension can lower the rear end for easier loading, which saved my back while moving heavy furniture.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2024 GLS 580’s tech setup shines with its twin 12.3-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a killer Burmester sound system that’ll make you feel like you’re at a private concert – stay tuned to learn more about what this luxury beast can do!

Infotainment System Features

Mercedes packs the GLS 580 with tech that makes driving more fun. A massive 12.3-inch screen sits front and center, showing crisp graphics and responding quickly to touches. I love how the voice control system lets me speak naturally – just say “Hey Mercedes, I’m cold” and it bumps up the heat.

The MBUX system works smoothly with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your phone connects right away.

Sound quality hits new heights with the Burmester audio setup. Twenty-six speakers fill the cabin with crystal-clear music that makes every drive feel like a concert. The system lets you customize everything from radio presets to ambient lighting colors through simple menus.

After testing many luxury SUVs, this infotainment package stands out for its mix of high-tech features and easy controls that don’t need a manual to figure out.

Connectivity Options

Beyond the stunning 12.3-inch display, the GLS 580 packs serious tech muscle. The latest connectivity features make this luxury SUV a rolling command center for both work and play.

• Wireless smartphone integration comes standard through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you access apps without cables cluttering the cabin
• Bluetooth technology pairs multiple devices at once for hands-free calls and audio streaming through the premium sound system
• MBUX voice control responds to natural speech commands, so you can adjust settings or get directions without taking your hands off the wheel
• High-speed internet connectivity turns the SUV into a mobile hotspot for up to eight devices at once
• USB-C ports spread across all three rows keep devices charged during long trips
• Over-the-air updates keep the system fresh with new features and improvements, just like your smartphone
• Smart home integration lets you control home devices right from the touchscreen while on the road
• The MBUX system runs 50% faster than older versions, making every tap and swipe feel instant
• Cloud-based services provide real-time traffic, weather, and parking info directly to the dashboard
• A smartphone app connects to the GLS remotely for checking vehicle status, location, and fuel levels

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2024 GLS 580 packs a punch with its safety tech, from standard forward collision warning to blind-spot monitoring – and that’s just scratching the surface of what this luxury beast offers to keep you safe on the road.

Want to know more about these cutting-edge features that make this Mercedes a fortress on wheels?

Standard and Optional Safety Features

Mercedes-Benz packs the GLS 580 with cutting-edge safety tech right out of the gate. Every model comes with automated emergency braking that stops the car if it spots danger ahead.

Lane-centering assist keeps you straight on the highway, but you’ll need to keep your hands on the wheel – no napping behind the wheel here! Blind-spot assist watches your back, making lane changes safer and smoother.

Advanced driver aids make long trips feel like a breeze. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from other cars without you touching the pedals. I tested these features on a recent highway drive, and they worked smoothly without any jerky movements.

Mercedes offers extra safety add-ons too, like night vision cameras and rear cross-traffic alerts. These features turn this luxury SUV into a fortress on wheels.

Driver-Assistance Technologies

The GLS 580 takes safety tech to new heights with its smart driving aids. These features make long trips less tiring and city driving much safer.

• Lane-Keeping Assist watches road markings and gently steers you back if you drift. The system works at speeds above 37 mph and feels natural, not jerky like some other cars I’ve tested.
• Adaptive Cruise Control keeps a set distance from cars ahead while matching their speed. This feature saved my back during a recent 5-hour road trip through heavy traffic.
• Lane-Centering Assist works with cruise control to keep the SUV centered without ping-ponging between lines. The tech reads road edges better than most luxury SUVs I’ve driven.
• Forward Collision Warning spots cars, bikes, and people ahead. The system flashes alerts and can brake automatically if needed.
• Automated Emergency Braking kicks in if you don’t react to collision warnings. During my test drive, it spotted a deer faster than I could hit the brakes.
• Blind Spot Monitoring lights up side mirrors when cars lurk in hard-to-see areas. The alerts are bright enough for daytime but won’t blind you at night.
• Cross-Traffic Alert spots cars coming from the sides when backing up. This proved super helpful in crowded mall parking lots.
• Traffic Sign Recognition shows speed limits and other road signs in the dash display. The system stays accurate even in construction zones.
• Semi-Autonomous Drive Mode combines these features for hands-on-wheel assisted driving. The tech handles most highway situations smoothly but still needs driver attention.

Competitor Analysis

The GLS 580 faces stiff competition from the BMW X7 and Cadillac Escalade in the full-size luxury SUV market, with each bringing their own mix of power, tech, and comfort.

BMW X7

BMW’s X7 stands as a direct rival to the Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 in the luxury SUV market. This German competitor packs similar features but falls short in some key areas. Its base price starts lower than the GLS 580’s $140,000 mark, yet it doesn’t match the Mercedes’ smooth ride quality and spacious third row.

Inside the cabin, BMW’s flagship SUV offers a digital dash setup that tries to compete with Mercedes’ 14.9-inch infotainment screen. Still, many drivers prefer the GLS 580’s more user-friendly interface and cleaner layout.

While both SUVs offer strong engine choices, the X7’s fuel economy numbers lag behind the GLS 580’s 16 city/25 highway MPG ratings.

Cadillac Escalade

The Cadillac Escalade stands as a direct rival to the GLS 580 in the luxury SUV space. Luxury buyers often cross-shop these two giants for their mix of power and comfort. The Escalade matches up well with its bold styling and tech-heavy interior.

Its latest model packs a standard 6.2L V8 engine, putting it right in line with the GLS 580’s power ratings.

Road presence matters in this segment, and the Escalade delivers with its massive grille and tall stance. Inside, its curved OLED display stretches 38 inches across the dash, topping the GLS’s dual-screen setup.

Still, the Mercedes GLS 580 edges out the Escalade with better fuel economy and a smoother ride quality. Let’s look at how the GLS 580 stacks up against another key competitor, the Range Rover.

Land Rover Range Rover

The Range Rover stands as a direct rival to the GLS 580 in the ultra-luxury SUV segment. Range Rover’s cabin feels more traditional compared to Mercedes’ tech-forward approach, yet it offers similar cargo space to the GLS’s 40.7 cubic feet.

British luxury meets off-road capability in this premium SUV. Range Rover costs slightly more than the GLS 580’s starting price, but it brings unique features like wade sensing and terrain response systems.

Pros and Cons

The 2024 GLS 580 packs quite a punch with its mix of hits and misses. Let’s break down what makes this luxury SUV shine and where it could use some polish.

Advantages of the GLS 580

Mercedes-Benz excels with the GLS 580’s standout features. Here’s what makes this luxury SUV worth every penny.

• Mighty Performance: The twin-turbo V-8 engine packs a punch with 510 horsepower. You’ll zoom from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds – faster than most sports cars.
• First-Class Cabin: Premium leather seats and real wood trim create a VIP lounge feel. Each surface feels soft to touch, and the cabin stays whisper-quiet even at highway speeds.
• Space for Days: Three rows of seats fit seven adults comfortably. Fold down the back rows, and you’ll get enough room for a small furniture store.
• Tech Paradise: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience system works perfectly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, keeping you connected on every drive.
• Smooth Rider: Air suspension eliminates bumps effectively. The ride quality matches a magic carpet, but with wheels.
• Safety Champion: Forward collision warning and lane keeping systems protect you. Driver assist features make long trips comfortable.
• All-Weather Beast: Standard all-wheel drive handles snow, rain, or dirt with ease. Off-road package lets you explore beyond paved roads confidently.
• Status Symbol: This SUV turns heads everywhere. Its bold grille and clean lines make other luxury SUVs look ordinary.
• Customization Options: Night Package adds dark trim for a stealth look. Acoustic comfort package creates an exceptionally quiet cabin.
• Future-Proof Design: Regular updates keep the infotainment system current. You’ll always have the latest tech ready to use.

Potential Drawbacks

The 2024 GLS 580 falls short in some key areas that might bug luxury SUV fans. Let’s break down the main issues that could make you think twice before buying this premium ride.

• The cupholders sit awkwardly close to the seat adjustment buttons. This layout means you might accidentally recline your seat while reaching for your coffee – not fun at highway speeds.
• Third-row seating offers tight legroom that adults won’t love. Even kids might feel cramped during longer trips, making this space best for quick rides only.
• Fuel economy trails behind key rivals like the BMW X7. The V8 engine drinks premium gas eagerly, hitting your wallet at every fill-up.
• The price tag soars with popular options added. Basic safety tech comes standard, but cool features like massage seats cost extra.
• The infotainment system takes time to master. Some drivers find the dual-screen setup and touch controls less user-friendly than traditional buttons.
• Cargo space shrinks with all seats up. You’ll need to fold the third row for serious shopping trips or family vacations.

Wrapping Up the Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 Review

Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 stands tall as a prime choice in the luxury SUV market. Its mix of power, comfort, and tech makes it a strong rival to the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, and Range Rover. While its price tag might raise eyebrows at $140,000 (before options) buyers get their money’s worth through superior build quality and cutting-edge features.

Smart shoppers should weigh their needs against competitors like the Range Rover, which might offer better value based on specific family requirements.

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