The other day.Test Drive of the Mercedes-Benz GLSwrote, but this time I would like to share with you my husband's impressions.

Mercedes-Benz GLS Test Drive

My wife and I recently went on a test drive of the GLS and I would like to write about our impressions of it.

First of all, my Mercedes itinerary started with an R171 SLK350, then an R129 SL500, and finally a C217 AMG S63 coupe. As for my impression of this manufacturer.We will make an "honest" car anyway.That is to say.

It is never too sporty, and the engine and suspension are never more assertive than necessary.We are thoroughly committed to transporting passengers comfortably, safely, and securely.However, I believe that the appeal of this manufacturer lies in its ride quality, which is not monotonous or boring.

In considering a comfortable SUV for our family this time.Emphasis on comfort rather than driving, especially rear seats and functions and equipmentThe Mercedes GLS, BMW's X7, and Porsche's Cayenne are the three cars that have been considered by the company. Of these, only the Cayenne is in the smaller size category, but its driving and ride quality appeal to me, and I have not removed it from the list of candidates.

In test-driving the GLS, we were particularly focused and aware of the following points.

1. Diesel engine feeling
2. Ride and feeling
3. Interior texture and equipment

In-line 6-cylinder 2.9-liter straight 6 diesel turbo engine

Even after sitting in the driver's seat and starting the engine, the interior is quite quiet. There are no vibrations, and the cabin is very comfortable.

Operate the column-shift type shift lever on the right side of the steering wheel, put it in drive, and lightly depress the accelerator pedal.The huge body weighing over 2.5 tons moves easily and smoothly.

Because of the vast interior and large exterior, one would imagine in one's mind that the car starts moving more slowly, but the moment one steps on the gas pedal, in a good way, it is belied.

Even in the city, where there are many stop-and-go traffic, the car accelerates quickly and stops quickly.The 700 Nm of torque is very dependable, and there is no sense of lack of power in the city.The brakes are also excellent, never overpowering the car's weight, and controllable without demanding unnecessary awareness from the occupants, which is typical of Mercedes.

The engine is very quiet and smooth. The smooth revving feeling when stepping on the engine a little bit is so convincing that it is hard to believe that it is a diesel engine. On the other hand, the tiny vibration and faint noise transmitted from the steering wheel during idling is still recognizable as a diesel engine.

Well, in my case, I drive only gasoline engines, so I guess I feel it more easily than I should.For those who are used to diesel engines, the diesel color of the engine has faded considerablyYou will feel like you are in a

Driving Feeling

The combination of the extra-thick torque and the lightness of the steering wheel makes for a very light feeling car, despite its appearance.In terms of ease and comfort of driving, the car scores 100 points.I think.

On the other hand, I had imagined before my test drive that the GLS, with its "S" designation, would have that thick, moist ride of the S-Class that I had felt when I owned an S63 coupe.

From that perspective, I would say.This time GLS rides more blandly.I can say that. At least, I don't really feel the heaviness and moistness of that S-Class that I know. Specifically, I felt that the roughness of the road surface and the rolling sensation were a little short of the level of the S-Class.

Of course, the body shape is very different, so it is not unreasonable, but stillIf they call themselves "S", I wish they would have put a little more emphasis on "quality" rather than "drivability".I think.

The ride itself was very flat and comfortable in the driver's seat, with little boat-like swaying, and I thought the high center of gravity was well controlled.Driver's seat comfort is also unquestionably good.It could be said.

Meanwhile, we move to the second row of rear seats to see how comfortable the ride is. Here, the feeling is that even though the GLS is still a GLS, it is hard to hide the uncomfortable ride in the back seat, which is typical of many SUVs. Of course, theNever bad in absolute evaluation.However, when evaluating the relative comfort of the driver's seat and the rear seat, it is inevitable thatThe rear seat has a large up-and-down movement, and there is no denying the feeling of being swayed.

This may be more comfortable with seven passengers or with more luggage loaded, but I conclude that the comfort of the rear seat with three passengers is still not as good as that of a sedan. Nevertheless, thePrevious generation GLSThere is no doubt that it is much improved and considerably better than theIt should be added that.

The Japanese version of the GLS400d is currently available in the following modelsNot equipped with "E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL", the popular 48V electronically controlled suspension.Therefore, it is a little bit unfavorable for the GLS580. Therefore, we would like to test the ride comfort of the model equipped with this or the GLS580, which will be standard equipment.

Interior texture, equipment

The interior design, for example, depends largely on one's taste, but I really like the interior.In particular, the air conditioner outlet is square and simple, instead of the large floral circular shape that is common in existing MercedesI like this one better because of the

The quality of the interior is high for the price, and it never feels cheap. The seats of recent Mercedes cars are very thin and hard when it comes to the sports type seats, butThis GLS stuff is thick and comfortable. The back seats are also thick enough without feeling like they have been cut corners.

The rear seats can recline & slide, and are quite wide. So, even men can stretch their legs enough, but when in that position, I felt that a little more seat length would be better.

The equipment system is one of the best among imported cars.Cup holder warmers/coolers, seat massage, USB-C ports everywhere, and a variety of safety features.The list goes on and on.

As for equipment, it is unmatched by the Cayenne and offers the best cost-performance in this regard.

Mercedes-Benz GLS, General Comments

this timeThere is no doubt that the GLS is a very easy to drive and comfortable SUV.As long as the body size allows, it is an extremely comfortable car that can be used for shopping in town and for transportation without stress.

On the other hand, when you look at it as an ultra-luxury car that costs over 10 million yen.I'd like to see something a little more profound and slow in its running.In terms of driving luxury, my wife says the same thing, butThe new Cayenne I test-drove before was a cut above in terms of tire ground contact, smoothness of rolling, and smoothness of the drivetrain.I felt it was a good idea.

In terms of meat.I was imagining a premium, marbled meat, but it was surprisingly light, tasty, and easy to eat.That is my impression. This light and simple dish would be perfect for those who prefer it, but for customers whose palates were craving marbled meat, the result would be a little unsatisfying.

However, I believe it is still too early to make an assessment of this GLS.I would like to drive a car equipped with the aforementioned "E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL" if I have a chance.It's a good thing. It looks like our family's SUV selection will continue for a while yet.

*Image source.Mercedes-Benz "The GLS