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The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV has a new name, and were here to tell you why. The S-Class, you see, has been Mercedes flagship sedan for decades; its a luxury icon in its own right. Mercedes wanted its top-of-the-line family crossover to tap into that heritage, so last years GL-Class has become this years GLS-Class. The idea is that its the S-Class of SUVs, and we have to admit that this well-mannered beast makes a pretty compelling case.

Freshened front-end styling helps differentiate the 2017 GLS-Class from its GL-Class forebear.
The GL-Class was already at the top of its game, but the 2017 GLS-Class still manages to take things up a notch. Mild styling changes front and rear mask more significant upgrades under the skin, including a superb new nine-speed automatic transmission (on all models except the AMG) and an upgraded infotainment system with a larger central display and a touchpad. The GLS is great to drive, too, with remarkable agility for such a behemoth and powerful acceleration in every trim save the diesel-fueled GLS350d. Even the relatively pokey diesel is hardly a lost cause, as it returns easily the best fuel economy of the bunch -- a trade-off that many shoppers may find reasonable.
Direct competition for the 2017 GLS-Class is surprisingly thin. BMW doesnt offer a full-size three-row crossover yet, and the otherwise stellarAudi Q7 lacks the Benzs range of engines and adult-friendly third-row seat. The Land Rover LR4 boasts inimitable style and serious off-road capability along with true three-row seating, but its really a class down from the ultra-luxurious GLS. Japanese rivals include the distinctive Infiniti QX80 and the aging but still competent Lexus LX 570, while the gargantuan Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator serve as patriotic alternatives. But for now, at least, no large crossover or SUV can match the all-around talents of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.