MODEL
Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class Safety
NHTSA safety across every Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Mercedes-Benz Gls-Class we cover (2019 to 2023), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. No recalls are on record across those years.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is a full-size, three-row luxury SUV positioned at the top of Mercedes-Benz's SUV lineup. Aimed at affluent families and executive buyers who want genuine eight-passenger capacity without sacrificing premium refinement, the GLS competes in one of the most demanding segments in the market, where comfort, technology, and safety presence all matter equally.
The 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class has no federal crash-test star ratings. NHTSA did not test any of these model years, leaving a significant gap for consumers seeking independent crash validation. This absence of data should be a serious consideration, irrespective of the vehicle's market segment or manufacturer reputation. Despite the lack of crash-test data, the GLS-Class maintains a clear record regarding recalls. Across all five model years, zero NHTSA recalls have been issued, a rare and positive distinction. Owner complaints for the 2019-2023 models total 125. This is a moderate volume given the vehicle's sales figures. Within these complaints, eight alleged crashes, six alleged fires, and seven alleged injuries are noted. While NHTSA classifies these as unverified allegations, six fire-related complaints over five model years establish a pattern that merits attention. No fatalities were reported. The absence of crash-test results is a legitimate concern for safety-focused buyers. While the recall record is exemplary, the nature of certain owner complaints, particularly those involving fire, warrants further monitoring.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the GLS-Class as one of the most polished and well-appointed three-row SUVs available, praising its cabin materials, ride refinement, and commanding road presence. Most find the driving dynamics surprisingly composed for a vehicle of its size. Value relative to ultra-luxury rivals is frequently cited as a strength, though some reviewers note the technology interface has a steep learning curve.
- NHTSA has not crash-tested any 2019-2023 GLS-Class model year, meaning there are no federal star ratings available. Shoppers seeking independent crash-test validation should check whether IIHS has tested the relevant model year before buying.
- The GLS-Class recorded zero NHTSA recalls across all five covered model years, a strong result that suggests Mercedes-Benz did not identify any widespread safety defects requiring a federal corrective action during this period.
- Owner complaints include six alleged fire-related incidents across 2019-2023. These are unverified allegations in the NHTSA database, but the pattern is worth monitoring. Prospective buyers should review the specific complaint narratives on NHTSA's website for additional context.
- With 125 total owner complaints and eight alleged crashes reported over five model years, the GLS-Class complaint volume is relatively contained for a full-size luxury SUV. However, the seven alleged injuries within that complaint pool underscore the importance of reviewing any open investigations before purchase.