The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS has a lot going for it, from its roomy, luxurious cabin to its impressive powertrain options. However, there’s one detail that reviewers of the Mercedes-Benz GLS are particularly delighted by – its new car wash mode. Here’s what you need to know about this innovative feature, according to Roadshow.

The all-new car wash mode

The car wash mode on the Mercedes-Benz GLS automatically activates a series of commands that prepare the vehicle to go through the car wash as smoothly and efficiently as possible. The first thing this feature does is raise the GLS’s suspension to its highest position, which makes for a much more thorough clean even in the vehicle’s most hard-to-reach spots.

After this, the car wash mode activates the 360-degree camera to ensure that the driver has a clear view of what’s happening. It also switches the climate control to the recirculate setting, automatically closes all the windows and the sunroof, and folds in the mirrors. Finally, car wash mode deactivates the rain-sensing wipers so that they won’t get switched on while the GLS is going through the wash.

To add to this convenience, there’s no need for you to manually turn off car wash mode once you’re done. The feature automatically switches off when the GLS accelerates faster than 12 mph, and the vehicle goes back to the way it was set up prior to the car wash.

Roadshow does point out that the mode is a little challenging to activate, as it is located within the infotainment display rather than on the dashboard. However, it is possible to activate it using voice command, which is fairly convenient.

Specs and features of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes-Benz GLS starts at $76,945 and is available in two different models: the GLS450 and the GLS580. The former features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that makes 362 hp, while the latter has a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that makes 483 hp. Both models come with electric-assist powertrains. This vehicle’s fuel efficiency isn’t fantastic — the GLS450 is estimated to get 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, while the GLS580 is estimated to get 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

The GLS features two 12.3-inch digital displays, one of which acts as a gauge display. The other serves as a standard infotainment display. Car and Driver reports that this screen runs the Mercedes-Benz’s new virtual assistant software, MBUX. Air suspension is standard on the GLS, as are Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. This vehicle also has standard automated emergency braking, as well as a 13-speaker sound system.

What people love about this SUV

Car and Driver calls the Mercedes-Benz GLS class “indisputably luxurious,” praising the SUV for its elegant design and spacious cabin. Reviewers also note that the GLS is surprisingly spry and easy to handle despite its large size. 

Additionally, the 2020 GLS has a roomier, more modern cabin than the previous model year. It can seat up to seven, and even the third row can fit an adult — although the first two rows are definitely more spacious.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers an amazing driving experience, a comfortable, modern cabin, and impressive tech that gracefully combines practicality with luxury. Its air suspension offers the possibility of off-road adventures, and its powerful engine options mean that you’ll never have to worry about a slow, unresponsive ride. While this vehicle’s fuel efficiency leaves a little something to be desired, it is an overall winner for anyone shopping for a luxury SUV.