The Unrivaled Conqueror of the Open Road: A 2025 Review of the Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4Matic
In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, where opulence often jostles with practicality, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4Matic stands as a towering testament to harmonious design and engineering prowess. Having navigated countless miles and reviewed a veritable fleet of premium vehicles over the past decade, I can confidently assert that this latest iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s flagship full-size SUV is not merely a mode of transport; it is a meticulously crafted sanctuary on wheels, designed to transform even the most arduous journeys into serene, memorable experiences.
Imagine staring down a six-hour stretch of highway, the kind where the horizon seems to stretch infinitely with little visual variation. In a lesser vehicle, this would be a grueling test of endurance. But behind the wheel of the 2025 GLS 580 4Matic, such a drive isn’t a challenge; it’s an opportunity for unparalleled comfort, effortless power, and an immersive, luxurious escape. This isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about the journey itself becoming a destination. For discerning buyers seeking the pinnacle of large luxury SUVs, the GLS 580 4Matic isn’t just a strong contender—it’s the benchmark.
Unleashing Sophisticated Power: A Masterclass in Performance
Underneath the GLS 580’s elegantly sculpted hood lies the heart of its formidable character: Mercedes-Benz’s revered twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. This isn’t just any V8; it’s an orchestral masterpiece of power delivery, producing a robust 510 horsepower and an astonishing 538 pound-feet of torque. What truly elevates this powertrain into the realm of cutting-edge technology is its seamless integration with a sophisticated 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This intelligent system doesn’t just assist; it actively enhances, chipping in an additional 21 horsepower and a significant 184 pound-feet of torque at crucial moments, particularly during initial acceleration or when demanding instant thrust.
The result is an engine that feels effortlessly potent across the entire rev range. Cruising at highway speeds, a mere whisper of the accelerator is enough to maintain momentum, the power meter showing only a fraction of its immense capabilities being utilized. Yet, when the need arises—perhaps to overtake a slower vehicle or merge confidently into fast-moving traffic—the GLS 580 responds with an urgency that belies its substantial 5,875-pound curb weight. The nine-speed automatic transmission is a paragon of refinement, executing gear changes with liquid smoothness and lightning-fast precision, always selecting the optimal ratio for the situation at hand. A satisfying, deep bellow from the V8 accompanies each forceful acceleration, a reminder of the raw, yet civilized, power at your command. According to Mercedes-Benz, this luxurious behemoth can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.7 seconds, a figure that would make many sports cars blush, underscoring its dual nature as both a stately cruiser and a genuine performer.
Power is confidently channeled to all four wheels through Mercedes’ renowned 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent system continuously monitors traction at each wheel, redistributing torque as needed to ensure optimal grip and stability, whether you’re navigating slick city streets or venturing onto less-traveled paths. This robust combination of a potent V8, a sturdy transmission, and a unibody structure engineered for strength also bestows upon the GLS 580 an impressive towing capacity of up to 7,716 pounds. This capability opens up a world of possibilities, from safely trailering a sizable boat to transporting a substantial horse trailer, cementing its status as a highly versatile and functional luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on capability.
The Art of Serene Motion: Ride, Handling, and Beyond
The driving experience in the 2025 GLS 580 4Matic is a carefully curated symphony of comfort and composure. Standard across the range is an advanced air suspension system complemented by adaptive dampers, which work in concert to deliver a ride that is nothing short of velvety smooth, effectively isolating occupants from the harsh realities of imperfect road surfaces. However, my extensive testing revealed a nuanced distinction in its dynamic character.
In the default “Comfort” drive mode, the GLS 580 floats along with an ethereal grace. The ride quality is exceptional, absorbing bumps and undulations with remarkable proficiency. Yet, with a standard ground clearance of 7.9 inches, its sheer size and stature can sometimes translate to a sensation of slight body roll or “head toss” for passengers when encountering larger imperfections or executing quick steering inputs. While never unsettling, it signals a vehicle prioritizing plushness above all else. For those who appreciate a more connected and controlled demeanor, or for drivers who frequently find themselves on winding roads, a quick selection of the “Sport” setting within the “Individual” drive mode transforms the GLS 580. In Sport, the air springs firm up, and the adaptive dampers become more assertive, significantly reducing body lean and imparting a more buttoned-down, confident feel without sacrificing a substantial degree of ride comfort. This adaptability is key to the GLS’s broad appeal, allowing drivers to tailor the experience to their preferences and the demands of the road.
While the GLS 580 is undeniably a large and luxurious SUV, its unibody construction provides a distinct advantage over more traditional body-on-frame competitors, such as the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator. This design choice contributes to a lighter, more rigid chassis, resulting in superior ride quality, reduced NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness), and a more refined and controlled handling dynamic overall. While it’s not engineered to carve corners like a dedicated sports sedan – and frankly, it never aims to – the GLS 580 navigates with a surprising level of composure and precision for its class. The steering offers pleasant weighting, and the braking performance is strong and reassuring, bringing this substantial vehicle to a halt with confidence.
Beyond its highway prowess, the GLS 580 even offers a thoughtful nod to off-road capability. The standard air suspension allows for an increase in ground clearance in “Off-road” mode, providing crucial inches for clearing moderate obstacles on unpaved trails. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the GLS with an “Off-road Cockpit” screen, a digital dashboard dedicated to providing useful information like individual wheel height, tire pressure and temperature, and steering angle. Innovative “transparent hood” views, utilizing exterior cameras, allow drivers to virtually see what’s directly ahead of and even beneath the vehicle, a remarkably clever aid for navigating tricky terrain. However, it’s worth noting that the standard 285/45R22 front and 325/40R22 rear Continental EcoContact6 Q MO tires are primarily designed for optimal ride quality and highway quietness rather than extreme off-road traction, underscoring that while capable, this is still a luxury SUV primarily destined for paved roads.
Of course, the trade-off for such immense power and substantial size is fuel economy. The 2025 GLS 580 4Matic carries an EPA rating of 14 mpg in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and 16 mpg combined. My real-world experience over a demanding 950-mile journey, which included a mix of highway cruising and some city driving, actually yielded a slightly better average of 19.4 mpg. This demonstrates that with a judicious right foot, the mild-hybrid V8 can be surprisingly efficient for its class, especially on longer highway stretches.
An Inner Sanctum: Unparalleled Luxury and Intuitive Technology
Step inside the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4Matic, and you are immediately enveloped in an environment of exquisite luxury and cutting-edge technology. The cabin is a masterclass in German automotive design, featuring premium materials meticulously crafted and artfully arranged. From the supple tan leather seats in my test vehicle to the elegant wood trim and precision-machined metallic accents, every surface speaks of quality and attention to detail.
The front seats are nothing short of thrones. Multi-contour, deeply supportive, and featuring standard head pillows, they offer an exceptional level of comfort for long-distance travel. The standard massaging function elevates the experience further, capable of alleviating fatigue and tension during extended drives. While I found these features utterly delightful, proving invaluable on my lengthy road trip, it’s a testament to individual preferences that one of my long-time travel companions found them somewhat distracting. Regardless, the availability of such advanced comfort features is a hallmark of true luxury.
At the heart of the digital experience lies the brilliant 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, running the latest iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) software. In 2025, MBUX remains a benchmark for the industry, lauded for its intuitive interface, stunning graphics, and lightning-fast responsiveness. Navigating through satellite radio stations, seamlessly integrating with Apple CarPlay (and Android Auto), or accessing various vehicle settings is effortless. The system can be controlled via touch, through intuitive steering wheel-mounted controls, or by a trackpad on the center console. While the trackpad offers an alternative input method, its placement does consume valuable real estate that might otherwise be utilized for additional storage—a minor quibble in an otherwise flawlessly executed system. Complementing the central display is a equally impressive 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering a plethora of configurable information layouts and four distinct display themes, ensuring drivers have all critical data presented clearly and elegantly.
In an age where advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are increasingly sophisticated, the GLS 580 offers a comprehensive suite of features. Its adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist system diligently maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead while accurately keeping the vehicle centered within its lane. However, it’s important to note that these are Level 2 systems, requiring the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times. While Mercedes-Benz does offer its groundbreaking Level 3 Drive Pilot system in select models like the S-Class and EQS, which allows for conditional hands-free driving in specific, limited scenarios and geographic locations (primarily certain Western states), this advanced capability has not yet trickled down to the GLS line. For a vehicle so perfectly suited to eating up monotonous miles, a full Level 2+ or Level 3 hands-free system would be a welcome addition, further reducing driver fatigue on those epic American road trips.
Expansive Comfort: Space and Versatility for Every Journey
The 2025 GLS 580 4Matic is engineered to accommodate. Throughout my journey, I frequently traveled with up to five passengers, and the GLS handled the full complement with grace and ample space. The cargo hold, with the third row folded flat, proved more than capable of swallowing three large gym bags and a pair of coolers, testament to its real-world utility. Behind the third row, the GLS offers a modest 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space, suitable for a few carry-on bags. However, with the second- and third-row seats power-folding flat, that capacity expands to an extremely useful 84.7 cubic feet, transforming the GLS into a veritable cargo hauler for larger items or extensive travel gear.
Passenger comfort is paramount. The second-row features luxurious captain’s chairs, providing individual bucket-seat comfort and generous legroom and headroom for adult occupants. These seats are also heated, and second-row passengers benefit from their own independent climate zones, controllable via a small, intuitive display screen with tactile hard buttons, ensuring personalized comfort.
The third row, often an afterthought in many SUVs, is genuinely usable in the GLS 580. It comfortably accommodates two adults, offering sufficient headroom even for a six-footer, a rare feat in this segment. The bottom cushion is intelligently positioned high enough to provide good thigh support, preventing the uncomfortable “knees-up” posture common in less accommodating third rows. Like the second row, third-row passengers enjoy their own climate zone, ensuring everyone remains comfortable regardless of the external conditions. However, if occupants in all three rows are particularly tall, legroom can become somewhat constrained, highlighting the universal challenge of maximizing space in a seven-seater.
My passengers, while overwhelmingly positive, offered a couple of minor observations. There was a general consensus that the standard running boards, while aesthetically integrated, were tucked in a little too tightly to the body to be truly useful for ingress and egress, particularly for adults. Another point of discussion revolved around third-row access; while easy, only the passenger-side second-row seat tilts and slides forward to create a pathway, rather than both. These are small points of consideration, however, in a vehicle that otherwise delivers an exceptional passenger experience. The only other “complaint” (beyond the aforementioned individual aversion to massaging seats and head pillows) was the sheer monotony of the Midwestern landscape—a challenge even the most luxurious SUV cannot overcome!
The Enduring Appeal: A Class Apart
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4Matic starts at an MSRP of around $115,950, including a destination charge. With a few carefully selected options that enhance its already formidable luxury and capability, my road-trip tested vehicle clocked in at approximately $126,610. This is, undeniably, a significant investment. However, for the discerning buyer, the GLS 580 represents exceptional value within the upper echelons of the luxury SUV market.
It’s a vehicle that masterfully blends robust V8 performance with the serene comfort of an executive sedan, the versatility of a family hauler, and the subtle capability of an adventurer. It caters to affluent families who demand uncompromising safety, space, and luxury for their daily lives and grand adventures. It appeals to the executive who requires a sophisticated mobile office capable of devouring highway miles with effortless grace. In a segment populated by formidable rivals, the GLS 580 4Matic doesn’t just compete; it sets a standard, offering a unique blend of German engineering precision, opulent comfort, and technological foresight.
In conclusion, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4Matic isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to luxury, performance, and innovation. It transforms the mundane into the magnificent, turning any long-distance drive into a journey to anticipate, not endure. For those seeking the ultimate expression of a full-size luxury SUV in 2025, a vehicle that offers everything one could possibly desire and more, the GLS 580 4Matic stands ready to exceed every expectation. It is, without question, the unrivaled conqueror of the open road.
