2024 GLS 580 4Matic -Auto Review - Cathy Droz - HER Certified - Disneyland Delight

2024 Mercedes Benz GLS 580 4Matic
Disneyland Delight
By: Cathy Droz and Melanie Droz Shawcroft
Surprises, luxury, and the open road: What more could you ask for? For Berrett’s 13th birthday, we pulled off the ultimate surprise: a road trip to Disneyland from Phoenix, Arizona. And to make this adventure even more magical, Mercedes-Benz handed us the keys to a 2024 GLS 580 4Matic, a luxury SUV as grand as the grandsons going and the destination.
All Aboard the Luxury Express: Packing for six people on a four-day trip is no small feat, but the GLS 580 swallowed our luggage without breaking a sweat. The cargo area was spacious, and thanks to the luxurious Captain’s Chairs, we even managed to fit a small suitcase between the seats. The kids were thrilled to discover the third row had pseudo captain’s chairs, complete with cupholders and plenty of room for their Disneyland excitement.
The Captain at the Helm: My daughter, Melanie, took on the driving duties for this journey. Her expertise in handling family trips - and dogs - made her the perfect pilot. The rest of us enjoyed the plush ride from our comfortable seats. For once, the usual road trip squabbles from the kids were nonexistent. No complaints about foot space or stolen pillows; just pure, unadulterated comfort.
Smooth Sailing to the Happiest Place on Earth: As a passenger, I had a different perspective on the journey. My husband, who stands 6 feet tall, and my 6’1” son-in-law had plenty of space. I, too, felt like I could nap the entire way in the second-row Captain’s Chair. Each seat came with its own set of adjustments, ensuring everyone found their perfect position. The 12.3-inch widescreen digital instrument cluster and navigation system were marvels of modern technology. The 5-zone automatic climate control kept all six of us comfortable, even as we left the sweltering 111-degree Phoenix heat behind.
Sticker Shock and Pleasant Surprises: The GLS 580 comes with a hefty price tag - $112,000, which includes the stunning Alpine Grey color at $1,750 and black leather interior at $1,370. Our test model rang up at $128,000. I braced for the gas bill to rival the cost of Disneyland tickets, but to my surprise, the fuel efficiency was better than expected. We averaged 26 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city, defying the predicted 14 city and 20 highway. Even with California’s gas prices over $5 per gallon, Disneyland still took the prize for the most expensive part of the trip.
A Drive to Remember: Melanie couldn’t stop raving about the smoothness of the ride and the ease with which she could pass tractor-trailers. She enjoyed the ample space for her large drinks and delighted in changing the interior lighting colors as the evening set in.
Our days at Disneyland were packed with fun and excitement. My heartfelt thanks to Melanie and her family for inviting us and making this trip so memorable, and to Mercedes-Benz for ensuring our journey was nothing short of spectacular. A special shoutout to Clark from Mercedes-Benz of Gilbert for his exceptional support when I had a question on the road and he stayed on the phone with me for quite a few miles.
Disneyland might be the happiest place on Earth, but driving the 2024 GLS 580 4Matic comes in a close second. If you’re planning a magical journey, why not do it in the coolest luxury SUV around?
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MERCEDES
2024 GLS 580 4MATIC
Technical Features
• 4.0L V8 Biturbo Mild Hybrid Engine
• 510 HP & 538 lb-ft Torque
• 9C TRONIC Automatic Transmission
• 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
• AIRMATIC Air Suspension
Exterior Features
• Digital Light Headlamps with Projection Function
• 23” AMG Twin 5-Spoke Black Wheels
• Black Fabric Headliner
• Rearview Camera
Interior Features
• 12.3” Touchscreen Display
• 12.3” Digital Instrument Cluster
• Captain Chairs
• Acoustic Comfort Package
• Burmeister High-End 3-D Surround Sound System
Comfort/Convenience/Safety
• Advanced Airbag Protection System
• Rear Side Airbags
• Active Brake Assist
• Active Parking Assist
• Surround View System
MPG
14 CITY
20 HIGHWAY
16 Combined
MSRP: $112,000
As Tested: $128,880