Mercedes Benz GLS450 4MATIC

Highlights

• 7+ seat capacity with captain chairs
• Top-tier audio system standard
• Most advanced ADAS standard

Summary

This 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS450 4MATIC represents a balanced opportunity for GCC buyers seeking a premium seven-seater with a modern turbocharged powertrain. The silver exterior is a strategic choice for the region, offering superior heat reflection during peak summer and high resale demand in the local used market. Despite its American specification, this vehicle offers the same high-level luxury and tech integration that made this generation a class-leader for large families. For those who prioritize a smooth inline-six engine over a heavier V8, this model provides ample power for UAE highways while remaining surprisingly efficient. The combination of its spacious three-row layout and advanced all-wheel-drive system makes it an ideal companion for weekend trips between Dubai and Abu Dhabi or family vacations across the border. Buyers will appreciate the tech-forward cabin that keeps all seven passengers comfortable in the most demanding temperatures.

This Car vs Other 2022 GLS450s

With a mileage of 96,798 km, this vehicle reflects an active usage profile that aligns with the common 30,000 km per year average seen on luxury family cruisers in the GCC. While many regional examples are treated as secondary cars, this unit’s history suggests it was a reliable daily driver, likely benefiting from consistent highway cycles which are often better for mechanical longevity than short city bursts. The silver paintwork provides a distinct advantage over darker alternatives in the Emirates, as it hides dust better and maintains a cooler cabin temperature when parked outdoors. Choosing this specific 2022 model allows buyers to access the latest MBUX software and exterior styling without the steep initial depreciation of a brand-new showroom unit. It sits in a sweet spot where the major first-owner depreciation has already occurred, offering a high-tier luxury experience at a more accessible entry point.

4MATIC vs Lower Trims

The 4MATIC designation on this GLS450 ensures that power is intelligently distributed to all four wheels, a vital feature for maintaining stability during the occasional desert rain or on loose gravel tracks leading to weekend retreats. Moving up to this trim level introduces a suite of standard features that are often optional on base European models, including the high-resolution dual-screen cockpit and the premium Burmester surround sound system. Owners benefit from ventilated front seats and a multi-zone climate control system designed to handle the rapid cooling requirements of a large cabin in 45-degree heat. The inclusion of the 48-volt mild-hybrid EQ Boost system provides extra torque for smoother take-offs, a refinement that cheaper or older iterations of the GLS lack. Additionally, the standard fitment of a 360-degree camera system makes navigating tight parking structures in Dubai Mall or Riyadh Front significantly easier for a vehicle of this footprint.

GLS450 vs Segment Rivals

When compared to rivals like the BMW X7 or the Cadillac Escalade, the GLS450 stands out for its car-like ride quality and sophisticated interior ergonomics. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine is widely regarded as one of the smoothest in the industry, offering a more refined cruising experience than the often-noisier V8 engines found in American competitors. While the Escalade offers more sheer volume, the Mercedes provides a more maneuverable package that feels at home in congested urban environments while still offering genuine adult-sized seating in the third row. The air suspension system in the GLS is particularly adept at smoothing out highway expansions and road joints, providing a level of float that Lexus and Audi struggled to match in this model year. Furthermore, the MBUX infotainment system remains the most intuitive interface in the segment, allowing for seamless voice-command control of temperature and navigation—a major plus for focused driving on fast-moving GCC highways.

Running Costs & Resale

Running a GLS450 in the GCC is characterized by manageable fuel consumption for its size, with the inline-six engine averaging roughly 10-12 liters per 100km on long highway stretches between cities. Given the high fuel quality available at Adnoc and Enoc stations, the engine’s turbochargers and mild-hybrid components are well-supported locally. While this is an American spec vehicle, it shares the majority of its mechanical parts with GCC spec models, ensuring that service centers across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have no trouble sourcing components for routine maintenance. Mercedes-Benz parts enjoy high availability through both authorized dealers and specialized luxury independent garages, which helps keep maintenance costs competitive compared to more exotic brands. Historically, the GLS retains roughly 80-82% of its value after three years in the local market, with silver being one of the three most sought-after colors for quick liquidation.

Performance & Capability

Powering this SUV is a sophisticated 3.0-liter engine producing 367 horsepower, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in approximately 6.2 seconds—plenty of punch for merging into 140 km/h traffic on the E11. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system works in tandem with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission to ensure the 500 Nm of torque is always available for effortless overtaking. Even with a full load of seven passengers, the vehicle maintains its composure thanks to the AIRMATIC air suspension, which can also raise the ground clearance to navigate sandy paths or uneven terrain during desert camping trips. The towing capacity is robust at approximately 3,500 kg, making it capable of hauling boats or jet ski trailers for weekend excursions to the coast. Despite its size, the steering is light and precise, allowing for a surprisingly nimble feel during low-speed maneuvers in residential areas.

Comfort & Cabin

The interior of the GLS450 is a sanctuary of high-grade materials and cutting-edge technology designed for long-distance comfort. With seating for seven, the cabin ensures that even rear occupants have access to dedicated air vents and charging ports, which is essential for family harmony during cross-emirate drives. The silver exterior is complemented by a cabin insulated with thick acoustic glass, significantly reducing the wind noise that can be intrusive at 120 km/h. Ambient lighting with 64 color options allows for a customized atmosphere during nighttime city cruises, while the massive panoramic sunroof provides an airy feel without compromising the effectiveness of the heavy-duty AC system. Storage is plentiful, and the power-folding rear seats allow the luggage area to expand instantly from a grocery-getter to a massive cargo space for airport runs or furniture hauls.

Safety

Safety is a hallmark of the Mercedes-Benz brand, and this 4MATIC trim comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems. Active Brake Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring are particularly valuable in the GCC, where fast lane changes and heavy traffic are daily occurrences. The vehicle also features Lane Keeping Assist and Evasive Steering Assist, which provide an extra layer of protection on high-speed desert roads where fatigue can sometimes set in. For families, the inclusion of multiple ISOFIX points and a rigid passenger cell provides peace of mind that all passengers are well-protected. The adaptive high-beam assist is another standout feature, automatically adjusting the LED headlights to provide maximum visibility during unlit stretches of highway through the Hajar Mountains without blinding oncoming drivers.

The bottom line

This GLS450 is a perfect match for a growing family in the UAE looking for the prestige and technology of a Mercedes-Benz without the premium of a new car price tag. Its silver color and highly functional 7-seat layout make it a practical, high-value choice that will remain easy to maintain and sell in the future.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.