MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Mercedes-Benz Gls Safety

NHTSA safety across every Mercedes-Benz Gls model year we cover.

Across the 1 model year of the Mercedes-Benz Gls we cover (2024 to 2024), no year has an NHTSA crash-test score on record. No recalls are on record across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size, three-row luxury SUV aimed at affluent families and executive buyers who want flagship comfort, substantial road presence, and a premium German badge. It competes at the top of the large SUV segment against rivals like the BMW X7 and Cadillac Escalade, positioning itself as the 'S-Class of SUVs' for buyers who refuse to compromise on space or refinement.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS has not undergone crash testing by NHTSA, leaving a significant void in official safety data for this model year. Without federal star ratings, consumers lack an independent assessment of its crashworthiness. Despite this absence of verified test results, Mercedes-Benz has issued zero recalls for the 2024 GLS, a commendable record. NHTSA has logged 17 owner complaints. While a low volume for a large SUV, the nature of these complaints warrants scrutiny: 4 reports detail crashes, 1 involves a fire, and 1 describes injuries. These are owner allegations, not confirmed events, but they represent concrete feedback to consider. The reported fire, in particular, suggests an area for further inquiry. For safety-conscious buyers, the 2024 GLS requires a purchase decision based on incomplete information.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the GLS as one of the most polished and commanding entries in the full-size luxury SUV class, praising its exceptionally refined ride quality, hushed cabin, high-grade interior materials, and effortless highway composure. Most find the third row more accommodating than typical for the segment, though some note the infotainment learning curve and the considerable overall footprint as practical trade-offs.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • NHTSA has not crash-tested the 2024 GLS, so there are no federal star ratings available. Shoppers should seek IIHS results and check for any updated federal test submissions before purchasing.
  • The 2024 GLS has zero NHTSA recalls on record, which is a clean safety administration result and a meaningful positive data point for a new model year.
  • Among the 17 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, 4 allege crashes and 1 alleges a fire-related incident. These are unverified but represent real owner-submitted concerns worth researching further, particularly the fire allegation.
  • With no crash-test data and a small but notable share of complaints referencing crashes and fire, prospective buyers should ask their dealer about any technical service bulletins, monitor NHTSA's recall database regularly after purchase, and confirm their vehicle's safety-system features are functioning as designed.

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