Mercedes Benz GLS450 4MATIC

Highlights

• 7+ seat capacity with captain chairs
• Top-tier audio system standard
• 5-Star NCAP safety rating

Summary

This 2022 Mercedes Benz GLS450 4MATIC offers an exceptional opportunity for families in the GCC seeking a premium seven-seat SUV that balances prestige with immense practical utility. With its silver exterior, the vehicle benefits from one of the most resilient and high-demand colors in the region, ensuring better heat reflection and stronger resale value than darker alternatives. While it serves as a high-mileage example for its age by global standards, it is perfectly aligned with the highway-heavy driving patterns typical of the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where 30,000 km to 40,000 km per year is common for executive family haulers. The 3.0L inline-six engine provides a smooth, effortless power delivery that makes it superior to four-cylinder rivals for long-distance cruising between emirates. This specific American spec model provides a high level of luxury equipment often reserved for top-tier regional packages, making it a sophisticated choice for buyers who prioritize interior technology and comfort. For any GCC buyer, the primary consideration here is the blend of massive cabin space and the mechanical refinement that only a long-wheelbase Mercedes Benz can provide.

This Car vs Other 2022 GLS450s

When comparing this specific 2022 unit to others on the market, the mileage reflects an active life, likely spent on the smooth, high-speed highways of the UAE or North America before import. In the GCC market, high mileage on a modern Mercedes Benz is often viewed as a sign of mechanical health, as these engines perform best when driven regularly rather than sitting idle in the heat. The silver paintwork is a significant advantage in our climate, as it hides dust from the desert and maintains a cooler exterior temperature compared to black or navy blue equivalents. While some 2022 models might show lower numbers on the odometer, they often command a much higher price premium without offering additional features. This car represents a middle-ground for the buyer who wants the latest generation of the GLS450 platform and the updated MBUX infotainment system without the 'brand new' price tag. Choosing a 2022 model also ensures you have the most recent suspension refinements and cabin insulation improvements that were introduced in this generation.

4MATIC vs Lower Trims

The 4MATIC trim is more than just an all-wheel-drive badge; it represents a comprehensive luxury suite that positions this car well above base-level entry luxury SUVs. Unlike lower-tier trims or smaller models in the line, this GLS450 comes standard with the sophisticated 48-volt mild-hybrid system which assists with smoother stop-start transitions in heavy Dubai or Riyadh traffic. Interior enhancements over lower trims include multi-zone climate control that actually reaches the third row effectively, a feature often compromised in smaller SUVs. You also benefit from the premium Burmester surround sound system and the enhanced MBUX cockpit with dual 12.3-inch displays which feel significantly more modern than the single-screen setups found in lesser models. The 4MATIC system itself is a critical safety and performance feature for GCC drivers, providing much better stability on rain-slicked roads after a desert storm or when navigating occasional sandy patches on rural roads. This trim also typically includes the 360-degree camera system, which is essential for maneuvering a vehicle of this size into tight mall parking spaces.

GLS450 vs Segment Rivals

In the competitive landscape of full-size luxury SUVs, the GLS450 consistently leads the BMW X7 and the Audi Q7 in terms of outright third-row comfort and accessible cargo space. While the BMW X7 focuses heavily on a sporty driving feel, the Mercedes Benz prioritizes a 'floating' ride quality that is far more suited to the long, straight highways between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The GLS450 also offers a larger fuel tank than many of its European competitors, which is a major convenience for those who frequently drive long distances across the borders into Oman or Saudi Arabia. Compared to the Lexus LX, the GLS450 provides a much more modern and intuitive infotainment experience with superior voice recognition capabilities tailored for international users. The cabin insulation in this model is also widely regarded as the best in its class, keeping the interior whisper-quiet even at 140 km/h. While American rivals like the Cadillac Escalade offer more sheer size, the Mercedes Benz provides a more refined, European driving dynamic that is easier to manage in urban environments.

Running Costs & Resale

Ownership of a GLS450 in the GCC is characterized by predictable maintenance through an extensive network of specialist workshops and authorized service centers across the region. Real-world fuel consumption for the 3.0L engine is surprisingly efficient on the highway, averaging around 9.5L to 10L per 100km, though this increases in heavy stop-start city traffic where the mild-hybrid system works to keep costs down. As an American spec vehicle, it is important to note that while the mechanical parts are identical to GCC versions, some specialized electronic components may require a technician familiar with US-market software. In terms of resale, the GLS450 is one of the strongest performers in the luxury SUV segment, typically seeing a depreciation of about 12% to 15% annually in the UAE, which is better than many of its British or Italian rivals. The silver color further protects this value, as it remains the second most popular choice for used car buyers in the region. Parts are readily available across the GCC, ensuring that even as the vehicle ages beyond 100,000 km, keeping it on the road remains straightforward and cost-effective.

Performance & Capability

With 367 hp and the instantaneous torque provided by the EQ Boost system, this SUV accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, a remarkable feat for a seven-passenger vehicle. This power is particularly useful for overtaking safely on busy transit roads like Sheikh Zayed Road or the E11. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system works seamlessly with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission to ensure power is always delivered to the wheels with the most grip, whether you are on a rain-slicked asphalt or a gravel track leading to a weekend retreat. While it is primarily a luxury road-going SUV, the adjustable air suspension provides sufficient ground clearance for light off-road excursions and sandy tracks. The towing capacity is also a standout feature, allowing for the easy transport of jet skis or small boats to the coast. The ride quality is governed by the AIRMATIC system, which automatically lowers the car at high speeds to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, while also providing a level of composure over bumps that rivals a luxury limousine.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin of the GLS450 is often referred to as the 'S-Class of SUVs,' and for good reason—every one of the seven seats is designed with adult-sized proportions in mind. In the GCC, the most appreciated feature is the high-output air conditioning system, which features dedicated vents for the second and third rows to ensure every passenger stays cool during the peak of summer. The silver exterior is complemented by a cabin filled with premium materials, including open-pore wood and soft-touch leather, creating an atmosphere of calm. The Burmester audio system provides an immersive experience that masks road noise, making long family trips across the desert feel much shorter. Technology lovers will appreciate the MBUX system with 'Hey Mercedes' voice control, which allows you to adjust the temperature or change navigation settings without taking your eyes off the road. The second-row seats feature electric adjustments, and the third row can be folded flat at the touch of a button to reveal a cavernous boot space for luggage or club gear.

Safety

Safety is a hallmark of the Mercedes Benz brand, and this GLS450 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active driver assistance systems. Features like Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist are particularly valuable in the GCC, where multi-lane highways and fast-moving traffic require constant vigilance. The Pre-Safe system can detect an impending collision and take protective measures like tightening seatbelts and closing windows in a fraction of a second. Active Brake Assist is also standard, helping to prevent rear-end collisions in heavy city traffic. For family buyers, the 5-star NCAP rating and the inclusion of multiple airbags—including side-curtain airbags that protect all three rows—provide essential peace of mind. The car also features sophisticated stability control systems that have been rigorously tested to handle the unique combination of high heat and high-speed maneuvers, ensuring the vehicle remains composed in emergency situations.

The bottom line

This 2022 GLS450 is the perfect match for a large family that values Mercedes Benz refinement and needs a genuine seven-seater capable of handling long-distance GCC road trips with ease. It represents a smart buy for those who want a modern, tech-loaded luxury SUV at a price point that reflects its mileage while still offering years of reliable high-end performance.

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