2018 Mercedes-Benz GLS GLS 550

** CLEAN CARFAX * LOCAL TRADE ** 2018 ALL WHEEL DRIVE GLS-4MATIC ** No one is likely to be surprised by the GLS's impressive all-weather capability, or its overall cargo-hauling talents. Compensation for crosswinds is programmed into the GLS. The driver-attention monitor displays a coffee cup as a warning, when sensors determine that the driver may be getting drowsy. In addition to all the panache that's provided by Mercedes-Benz's big luxury SUV, the GLS boasts plenty of available safety technology. Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking is standard, along with a rearview camera. Safety options include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with steering assist, active lane control, and traffic-sign-based speed warnings.The same 9-speed transmission serves the GLS 550, whose 4.7-liter V8 generates 449 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.hile other SUVs feature curves and flowing surfaces, the GLS leans toward right angles. In profile, it has the look of a wagon, but it's less noticeable at any other angle. Up front, large LED headlights flank a huge Mercedes-Benz logo, tucked within a wide grille. Farther rearward, the squared-off GLS body is largely the same as that of its GL-Class predecessor. Depending upon the model, body details very. The GLS 550 wears flared wheel wells, above 21-inch rubber.As many as seven adult passengers can ride in a GLS without feeling cramped. In every direction, space is abundant. Seating is flexible and trim ranks as opulent. Today's interior has a warmer feel than earlier models, with large wood panels and a big display screen atop the dashboard's center. Up front, seats are nicely bolstered and heated, power-adjustable in multiple directions. Options include seat cooling, adjustable bolsters, and four-mode massaging. Large door openings ease entry into the second row, where seats can be heated and powered. Three persons can occupy the middle row, though two would be more content. Second-row seats fold and slide out of the way, using either a handle or power button. Six-foot passengers can find comfort in the third row, once they reach that position. Behind the third row, cargo volume totals a modest 16 cubic feet. Folding that bench raises cargo space to 49.4 cubic feet. Second-row seats can also be folded down, for a total of 93.8 cubic feet. Large round digital gauges are separated by an information panel. A digital display for COMAND infotainment sits on the dashboard, but the system is cumbersome and confusing. Generally quiet and composed, the GLS permits little wind noise, despite its tall profile and large mirrors.Qualifying as an unabashed heavyweight, the GLS delivers a poised ride, typically buttery-smooth, as the air suspension subdues nearly all rough spots on the pavementAt a glance, the uninitiated observer might dismiss the immense GLS as one more oversize SUV. Instead, it warrants consideration for its powertrain selection, ride quality, and off-road capability.