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2023 Mercedes GLS
For families deciding between the 2022 and 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the good news is that nothing major changed in terms of space, seating, or overall usability. You’re still getting the same roomy three-row SUV with strong second- and third-row functionality for kids and car seats. The 2023 model just adds a more updated feel, with a refreshed exterior, upgraded infotainment system, and a few extra comfort and tech features.
- Full LATCH coverage across the cabin: four lower anchors (two in the second row, two in the third row) plus top tether anchors in all seating positions, which is rare and gives you real flexibility with installs.
- Car seat tilt!: the power “car seat friendly tilt” lets me get into the third row even with a seat installed, which makes daily life so much easier.
- Double car seat tilt function: the whole bench can power tilt forward, even with car seats attached, so I’m not constantly uninstalling seats just to get kids in the back.
- Second row comfort for kids: tons of legroom and headroom, plus climate control, multiple vents, and built-in shades—this is a really comfortable spot for kids in car seats.
- Third row usability: two separate seats with ceiling vents, cupholders, and USBs—it’s actually comfortable back there, not just for occasional use.
- Easy cargo setup: power-folding second and third rows with an “all” button, so you can drop everything at once without messing around.
- Exterior and towing capability: it’s big, bold, and athletic looking, and it can tow 7,700 pounds, which is impressive for a luxury family SUV.
The Exterior
I love this exterior—it’s big, bold, and honestly just looks expensive in the best way.
It has that full-size, luxury SUV presence that you don’t always realize until you see it in person. It’s meaty, athletic, and just really well done overall.
- Bold front grille and logo: the oversized Mercedes emblem really stands out and feels proportional to the size of the vehicle
- Bright multi-beam LED headlights: these are seriously bright and add to that high-end, premium look
- 22-inch wheels: multi-spoke, two-tone wheels that just elevate the whole design
- AMG styling touches: subtle badging that gives it a sportier edge without overdoing it
- Chrome accents throughout: running boards, door handles, and trim all tie together really nicely
- Roof rails and running boards: practical but still look polished and intentional
- Strong rear design: clean look with GLS badging, square tailpipes, and just enough chrome
- Towing capability: can tow up to 7,700 pounds, which is impressive for something this luxurious
Overall, it just feels like a really well-balanced mix of luxury and functionality, and I’m honestly obsessed with how it looks.
First Row
I really like the first row—it feels high-end but still easy to use, which isn’t always the case with luxury cars.
Large, Seamless Screens That Actually Feel Intuitive
The dual displays flow right from the dash into the infotainment and look super clean. Even with a lot going on, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. The heads-up display is a great add, and I’d mostly use the touchscreen, but having the trackpad is a nice backup.
Controls That Are Easy to Reach and Not Buried
There are a lot of features here, but I’m not digging through menus to find them. Everything feels placed where I expect it to be, which makes a big difference day to day.
Storage That Works for Real Life
The door pockets are deep enough for a big water bottle, and there’s a solid setup with cupholders and charging.
- Center console: a little small for a car this size
Comfort Features That Feel Worth the Price
The seats are super adjustable with memory settings, and you get both heated and ventilated options. The materials feel really thoughtful, and the ambient lighting adds a fun, high-end touch.
Second Row
This is a really family-friendly second row—great for multiple car seats and easy to live with day to day.
Full LATCH Setup + Tether Anchors in Every Seat
You’ve got flexibility here, which I love.
- Lower anchors: two sets on the outboard seats
- Top tether anchors: in all seating positions, including the middle
That makes forward-facing installs across much more doable.
Spacing That Works for Multiple Car Seats
There’s solid room across and really good legroom. I’m comfortable sitting back here, so kids in car seats will be too. It’s a 60/40 split, which helps with different setups.
Rear- and Forward-Facing Fit
Rear-facing behind the driver is a little tight if you’re tall, but pretty standard. Forward-facing is where this row really shines with tether anchors everywhere.
Easy Third Row Access—Even With Car Seats
You can get to the third row without uninstalling seats, which is huge.
- Power tilt: moves forward with a car seat installed
- Full bench tilt: opens up the whole pathway
Built for Kids Back Here
Tons of legroom, three vents, climate control, charging, and built-in shades—this is a really comfortable spot for kids.
Overall, this is a super functional second row that makes multiple car seats and everyday use a lot easier.
Third Row
This is a genuinely usable third row—I can actually sit back here comfortably, which says a lot for this class.
Two Separate Seats That Feel Like Real Seats
These aren’t just occasional-use jump seats. They’re split, supportive, and actually comfortable for kids and even adults.
LATCH + Tether Anchors Back Here Too
You’re not limited to the second row for installs.
- Lower anchors: one set on each third row seat
- Top tether anchors: on both third row seats
That means you can do forward-facing seats back here if needed.
Space That’s Actually Comfortable
I’ve got good headroom and legroom, especially with the second row adjusted. If you don’t have a rear-facing seat in front of you, you can slide things forward and get even more space.
Amenities That Make It Work for Kids
Ceiling vents, cupholders, USBs, and windows back here—it doesn’t feel like an afterthought.
Overall, this is one of the better third rows in this class, especially if you need the flexibility for car seats or older kids.
Trunk
The trunk is solid, but not huge for the class. The 2021 Mercedes GLS gives you 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, which is pretty standard for a midsize three-row SUV.
Middle-of-the-Pack Cargo Space for the Class
That 17.4 cubic feet puts it right in the middle compared to competitors. It’s a little more space than something like the CX-90, Santa Fe, or Q7, but less than roomier options like the Traverse, Acadia, or Grand Highlander. So it’s not the biggest, but it’s not lacking either.
Works for Everyday Family Gear
In real life, this is enough space for a stroller, a few bags, or your day-to-day errands. It’s not going to swallow everything with all three rows up, but it’s practical for most family use.
Easy to Expand When You Need More Room
This is where it really shines functionally.
- Power-folding second and third rows: you can drop seats quickly without reaching inside
- “All” button: lowers everything at once, which is super helpful when your hands are full
- Underfloor storage: gives you a little extra hidden space
Overall, it’s a very usable trunk setup. Not the biggest in the category, but it balances well with how comfortable and functional the third row is—which is usually the tradeoff in SUVs like this.
Safety
Safety is a strong point here—it’s packed with systems that help prevent accidents and step in when it matters.
Driver Assistance That Helps Prevent Accidents
- Active Distance Assist: maintains space from the car ahead
- Active Lane Keeping + Steering Assist: helps keep you centered
- Active Blind Spot Assist: warns and can help prevent side collisions
Automatic Braking + Emergency Support
- Active Brake Assist: detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cross-traffic
- Active Emergency Stop Assist: can stop the car if the driver is unresponsive
PRE-SAFE® Protection System
- Prepares the cabin before impact by tightening seatbelts and adjusting positioning
- Includes side-impact protection to move occupants away from danger
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