The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC (combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 273‑266 g/km)^[1] represents a new form of luxury in the SUV segment. It extends the portfolio of the Mercedes-Maybach brand by combining the body design and technical basis of the GLS with the luxury of a top-class saloon car. Its spacious interior with the highest-grade materials and extremely effective noise insulation creates a stylish, cocoon-like feel-good atmosphere. From their pleasantly elevated seating position, thanks to electrically operated roller sun blinds on the two rear side windows, the passengers can decide for themselves how much of their surroundings they want to see. The AIRMATIC suspension included as standard or the optional, fully-active suspension with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL effectively keep the road bumps at bay. For the first time there is a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear. Access and egress are also highly convenient: when the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly, and an illuminated running board quickly and silently emerges on the access or egress side. The running boards are made of anodised aluminium. The V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, which can develop 410 kW (558 hp) and 730 Nm of torque, is an engine variant developed exclusively for Maybach and moves the car discreetly and powerfully. The engine is combined with the 48-volt system EQ Boost. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC will enter the market in the second half of 2020.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, rubellitrot / obsidianschwarz, Leder Exklusiv Nappa mahagoni/macchiato; Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 12,0-11,7 l/100 km; CO2-Emissionen kombiniert: 273-266 g/km**Angaben zum Kraftstoffverbrauch und CO2-Emissionen sind vorläufig und wurden vom Technischen Dienst für das Zertifizierungsverfahren nach Maßgabe des WLTP-Prüfverfahrens ermittelt und in NEFZ-Werte korreliert. Eine EG-Typgenehmigung und Konformitätsbescheinigung mit amtlichen Werten liegen noch nicht vor. Abweichungen zwischen den Angaben und den amtlichen Werten sind möglich.
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, rubellite red / obsidian black, Exclusive nappa leather mahogany/macchiato; combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 273-266 g/km**Figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

The Mercedes-Benz star surmounts the bonnet in the classic way, while the fine, vertical chrome struts of the Maybach radiator grille create a pinstripe effect. Effective chrome highlights around the side windows, and the chrome inserts in the side sill panels, lend dignity and elegance to the profile. The 22 or 23-inch wheels were developed exclusively for this model, with the 23-inch version echoing the pinstripe theme. The tailpipe trim elements with a small cross rib emphasise the model’s identity as a Mercedes-Maybach. The same applies to the brand emblem, which is positioned at various points such as on the D-pillar. As a special, Maybach-specific feature, two-tone paintwork is planned in eight different, elegant colour combinations.

Another eye-catching feature of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS are the electrically extending running boards. They make accessing and leaving the high seating position both convenient and safe. With surfaces of anodised aluminium laced with black rubber strips, illuminated in the dark and particularly wide in the area of the rear doors, they ensure a very special visual appeal. When in their retracted state, the running boards are concealed behind the side sill panels. If a rear door is opened, the running board on the side concerned automatically swings into position in around one second. This default setting can be changed using a special menu in the MBUX infotainment system. In the interests of spaciousness in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach GLS is only available with two seat rows.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, rubellite red / obsidian black, Exclusive nappa leather mahogany/macchiato; combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 273-266 g/km**Figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

The equipment features: luxury, leather and reclining seats

The appointments of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC are already decidedly luxurious as standard. The two outer rear seats can be electrically converted into reclining seats. Padded areas and the dashboard are finished in fine nappa leather as standard, with a range of further cushions and leather interior linings available on request. An electrically opening panoramic sliding/tilting sunroof with an opaque roller blind is standard equipment, as are climatised massage seats. Obtainable on special request, the fixed centre console transforms the car into a spacious four-seater whose rear is just as suitable for working as for relaxing. This console is available with extending, folding tables, even a refrigerator with space for champagne bottles. Suitable silver champagne flutes for this are available from the accessories range.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, rubellite red / obsidian black, Exclusive nappa leather mahogany/macchiato; combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 273-266 g/km**Figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

A dedicated fragrance was developed for the Mercedes‑Maybach GLS for active fragrancing as part of the optional AIR-BALANCE package: the white osmanthus blossom, floral and light, is rounded off by a gentle leather note and spicy tea.

Mercedes-Maybach GLS
Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC (combined fuel consumption: 12.0-11.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 273-266 g/km**Figures for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

From the power transfer and suspension to the headlamp technology, the technical systems of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS at least correspond to the most comfortable equipment level of the technically related Mercedes-Benz SUVs. Starting from this basis, added value that is typically Maybach is often a further result. For example, noise insulation in the interior has been raised to an even higher level by installing a rigid partition and a fixed parcel shelf behind the rear seats, separating the interior from the luggage compartment. A separate air conditioner for the rear seats is standard, and features additional outlets and heater boosters with which temperature control is even faster and draught-free. There is a dedicated Maybach drive program for the suspension and powertrain; its settings offer rear seat passengers in particular the ultimate in ride comfort.

With the standard MBUX Rear Tablet in the centre console or the armrest between the rear seats, the extensive comfort and entertainment functions can also be intuitively controlled from the rear seats. The integration of digital devices used by passengers comprises all of the common standards.

Selected technical data

Successful sub-brand: Mercedes-Maybach

The Mercedes-Maybach brand stands for exclusive luxury, maximum comfort and state-of-the-art technology in automotive engineering, services and accessories. It is seen as a trailblazer in defining style and status. The maxim of its name-giver Wilhelm Maybach was to create the very best from the very best. In 2014 Mercedes-Maybach was established as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz as part of a brand realignment. Since its market launch in 2015, more than 45,000 examples of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class have been delivered worldwide. In 2018 more Mercedes-Maybach S-Class cars were sold than ever before: one in seven S-Class models sold was a Maybach.

^[1]Figures for fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and were determined by the Technical Service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and a certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

^[2] Figures for fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional and were determined by the technical service for the certification process in accordance with the WLTP test method and correlated into NEDC figures. EC type approval and certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.

Normally, stating that a new or updated car is just like its predecessor kind of saps the life out of its “newness.” Take the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, for example. Its close kinship with last year’s GL450 may not be exciting, but it is a good thing, as that model represented the ideal intersection of price, performance, and fuel economy in the four-model GL-class lineup. For 2017, that family stays the same aside from a minor name change to GLS-class and subtle cosmetic updates inside and out.

Sharing its 362-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 with the pre-refresh, S-less GL450, the GLS450 again slots into the lineup above the diesel-powered GLS350d and below the high-powered, high-priced, eight-cylinder GLS550 and GLS63 AMG variants. Make that way, way below the V-8-powered GLS550 and GLS63 AMG, which start at $94,775 and $125,025. They play in a different arena than the $69,625 GLS450.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450

The GLS450 comes in $1650 over a GLS350d, and for that extra scratch you get 107 more horsepower at the expense of a few mpg. (The EPA, however, has yet to certify the ’17 GLS350d—likely the result of a federal investigation into possible emissions-test irregularities—making the GLS450 look like an even better proposition.) We have yet to test the 2017-model GLS350d or GLS550, but against the (slightly less powerful, pre-refresh) GL350 diesel and the GL550, the GLS450 compares favorably. The GL350 BlueTec reached 60 mph in 7.5 seconds and returned 22 mpg, while the GL550 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds but delivered a dismal 14 mpg. Aside from their new nine-speed automatic transmission shared with the GLS450, the ’17 GLS350d and GLS550 aren’t expected to perform much differently. For its part, the new GLS450 smoked to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds—just a tick behind the 550—while its observed 18 mpg was much closer to the diesel than to the V-8. Those in slightly less of a hurry could argue a strong case for the diesel, as well.

Receiving Transmission!

The GLS450’s new transmission is dubbed 9G-Tronic. Its first seven gears sport shorter ratios than all seven speeds in the old transmission. Compared with a 2015 GL450 we tested last year, the GLS450’s spicier gearing enabled it to reach 60 mph 0.2 second quicker and post snappier 30-to-50-mph and 50-to-70-mph passing times. Some credit for this specific GLS450’s extra zip could be attributed to its lack of optional extras, which made it weigh 207 pounds less than that 2015 GL450.

A straighter line can be drawn between the new transmission and the GLS450’s enhanced fuel economy. The two extra gears, both of which are taller than seventh gear in the old transmission, are responsible for nudging the GLS450’s EPA highway fuel-economy estimate northward by 1 mpg, to 22 mpg. (The city estimate remains 17 mpg.) We saw a bigger improvement, as the 18 mpg our GLS450 notched over a few hundred miles topped the 2015 version by 2 mpg. Better still, the 9G-Tronic’s tall gearing keeps engine revs low at highway speeds, and it behaves nearly flawlessly in the default Comfort mode, save for a tendency to select too high a gear when downshifting unless the throttle is really booted. There is a Sport mode, but it’s slightly too eager, waking up the transmission as though one of those jitter-inducing energy drinks often found at minimarts were poured into the electronics. Lower gears are feverishly held, even at a steady cruise, and first gear is used when accelerating from a stop (second is used in Comfort mode in the interest of smoothness). If you absolutely have to make it to soccer practice on time, use this setting.

The only other new feature vying for attention is a touchpad controller for the updated COMAND infotainment display. The touchpad, which operates via finger swipes and taps like a smartphone’s screen, works as well here as it does in other Benz products. But mostly it presents yet another choice for manipulating the COMAND menus in addition to a knob, steering-wheel controls, and voice commands.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS450

The Dynamic Story

All else being pretty much equal to the GL450, it’s little wonder that this model’s core competencies carry over. The interior seats up to seven in comfort, and although adults will fit in the third row, those chairs will seem most accommodating to children or teenagers. Air springs are standard, and while this suspension dulls the SUV’s initial responses—there is some body roll in corners—it also makes any road surface feel as if it’s made of memory foam. And despite the body lean, the GLS posted 0.79 g of cornering grip on our skidpad, which is above average for something 72.8 inches tall and weighing nearly 5400 pounds.

The rest of the big Benz’s dynamic qualities are to be expected, with the steering tracking well on the highway but otherwise being numb and with slow, vague responses to driver inputs. The brakes earn similar marks; the pedal feels reassuring after you pass through a brief squishy zone at the top of its travel, but the GLS450’s 186-foot stop from 70 mph is merely okay for this class. Really, though, the only dynamics that matter are the GLS450’s highway manners. We took it on a half-day trip from Ann Arbor to the west side of Michigan and back, and the most grueling part of the journey was the sunburn we got at the beach. Fill the GLS450 with people, cargo (up to 94 cubic feet with the second- and third-row seats folded), or both and you can schlep them far and wide in soft-riding quietude.

It’s particularly telling that this fairly sparsely optioned GLS450 seemed so luxurious and relaxing to drive. Outside of a few individual bits such as a trailer hitch ($575), temperature-controlled cupholders ($180), illuminated running boards ($670), a heated steering wheel ($250), and power-flipping second-row seats ($400), our test car’s biggest addition was the $3830 Premium package that brought SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, a proximity key, lane-keeping assist, ambient interior lighting, and a power passenger seat. A $1290 Parking Assist package (a self-parking system and a surround-view camera) and the rather droll combination of Iridium Silver paint ($720) and dark Anthracite Poplar wood trim ($160) that barely stood out in the all-black M-B Tex pseudo-leather cabin brought the total to $78,550.

Nearly $80,000 is slightly richer than a base, four-wheel-drive Cadillac Escalade—a rig that’s closer to the GLS450 in size and general SUV-ness than the more carlike Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. The body-on-frame Escalade also happens to be slower, worse to drive, less fuel-efficient, and less roomy for people and cargo, which sets up an opportunity for the GLS450. In our current editorial rankings, the GLS-class (the whole family) trails the Audi and the Volvo, mostly because those tall wagons are more athletic and exquisitely appointed across the breadth of their ranges, but neither can tow more than 5000 pounds or fit adults in their third-row seats. If you need a practical and well-rounded luxury SUV, the GLS450’s 7500-pound tow rating and ability to actually fit seven humans in its boxy body mark it as not only the sweet spot in the GLS lineup, but in its class.

Via: Car and Driver

The S-Class of SUVs. CNET breaks down the Mercedes-Benz GLS at the 2015 LA Auto Show in the video below.

With the recent reveal of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS, here is a quick look at all the details that have been released as well as a complete photo tour of the redesigned and renamed GLS.

Click here to view the full photo gallery.

Models & MSRP

• GLS350d 4MATIC– price TBA
• GLS450 4MATIC – price TBA
• GLS550 4MATIC – price TBA
• AMG GLS63 – price TBA

*Above prices exclude $925 delivery & destination charge.

Model Year Changes

• Extended DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes
• AIRMATIC air suspension system with ADS
• 9G-TRONIC 9-Speed automatic transmission (except for GLS63)
• New LED tail lights
• New Sport Exterior
• Redesigned bumper and taillights
• Redesigned interior
• Newly designed instrument panel
• 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel
• Redesigned center console
• Redesigned exterior with two special edition designo paint colors
• Comprehensive range of new light-alloy wheels
• New design upholstery options

Standard Feature Highlights

• DYNAMIC SELECT
• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
• Crosswind Assist
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• PRE-SAFE
• mbrace with five years complimentary service
• BRAKE ASSIST BAS
• ESP
• Cruise control
• Power Driver Seat with memory
• Remote Start
• Rearview Camera
• Power Tailgate
• Power Folding Mirrors

Optional Feature Highlights

• DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist
• Driver Assistance Package
• PRE-SAFE Brake with pedestrian detection
• BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist
• Active Blind Spot Assist
• Active Lane Keeping Assist
• PRE-SAFE PLUS [AMG GLS63 only]
• LED Intelligent Light System
• MAGIC VISION CONTROL
• Heated adaptive windscreen wiper system
• ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM
• New Night package
• Ambient lighting
• New 8-in. Media Display screen and touchpad
• Remote Online services
• Off-Road Engineering package

Model Positioning

• The S-Class among SUVs combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and best-in-class safety.

Main Competitors

• Lexus GX460
• Cadillac Escalade
• Infiniti QX80

At a Glance

You love the Mercedes-Benz S-Class for it’s unmatched luxury and you covet the GL for it’s ample size and versatility.  With the all-new GLS, Mercedes-Benz gives you the best of both worlds, luxury and style that you will not find in any other SUV and space and towing capabilities that rival the best SUVs on the road.  The 2017 Mercedes GLS will easily become the top family vehicle on the market.

GLS 500 4MATIC ( Studio ), Exterieur: Citrinbraun, AMG Line, exterior: citrine Brown, AMG line

Like the GL before it, the new GLS is setting standards in the world of the SUV as it confirms its position as the “S-Class among SUVs.” The only full-fledged seven-seater in the European premium SUV segment boasts ample spaciousness and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and best-in-class safety. Whether put to everyday use or venturing off the beaten track, the GLS meets all requirements effortlessly and comfortably. Compared with its predecessor, the new generation features improved efficiency, additional DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, improved air suspension system (AIRMATIC) with enhanced damping system (ADS), nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, state-of-the-art assistance systems and the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz telematics which includes internet access and remote-start capability. More power, more dynamism and more equipment are also offered by the new Mercedes- AMG GLS63. With a peak output of 577 hp, independent suspension and the revised AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, it represents the pinnacle of the GLS model line. Standard features on the GLS63 include AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes which provide optimum flexibility and a rear-biased AMG Performance all-wheel drive system. The GLS63 also shows strength of character with its updated AMG design elements and high- quality interior.

A new, dynamic exterior and revised, luxurious interior clearly underscore the impressive character of the GLS. With the 2017-model-year facelift, designers have adapted the full-size luxury SUV to the current Mercedes-Benz design idiom. On the exterior, focus has been placed on a redesign of the front end, while the rear has been modernized around the bumper and with full LED tail lamps. Eye-catching highlights in the interior include a newly designed instrument panel with Media Display, new 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel, modified center console with touchpad and new trim options.

GLS 500 4MATIC ( Studio ), Exterieur: Citrinbraun, AMG Line, exterior: citrine Brown, AMG line

Once again the dimensions of the GLS bear witness to its full-size format, and form the best possible basis for providing its seven passengers with a generous amount of space:

• Length 202 in. (GLS63 203.2 in)
• Width 84.3 in. w/ mirrors
• Height 72.8 in.
• Wheelbase 121 in.

New exterior design and equipment lines

The new GLS reflects harmony and modern luxury to impressive effect. Chrome details such as the roof rails, underguard, shoulderline trim strips, luggage compartment handle and side skirt trim create attractive highlights.

The Sport exterior, available on the GLS550, provides a muscular appearance and consists of unique front and rear aprons, side running boards, side flaps painted in the vehicle color and 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Even more exclusivity is created with the Night package which is available in conjunction with this model’s equipment line.

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC, Exterieur: designo diamantweiß bright
exterior: designo diamond white bright

Additional individualization options come courtesy of various standard and metallic paint finishes, including two special editions in designo Diamond White and, new for the GLS, designo Cardinal Red. On top of this there is a comprehensive range of new light-alloy wheels featuring a variety of designs.

Luxury liner with outstanding inner values

Accompanying the high-end exterior design quality is a revised interior which underscores the first-class standards of the GLS. Furthermore, up to seven passengers are able to enjoy an outstanding level of spaciousness. Like its predecessor, the new GLS boasts ample elbow and headroom in all three seat rows. With its diverse adjustment options, the center seat row enables a high degree of flexibility in the interior, including a cargo position for optimum use of the luggage compartment.

Other interior highlights include a new 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather and a newly designed instrument panel with color Media Display. Options available for the new GLS also include an air ionization system for even better interior air quality.

Individual highlights can be created in the GLS interior with the help of the wood/leather multifunction steering wheel, ambient lighting featuring three color shades or the wide range of generously proportioned trim elements on the instrument panel and door panels with coordinated retractable cup holder covers.

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC, Interieur: Leder Nappa espressobraun,
Zierteile: AMG Carbon
interior: leather nappa espresso brown, trim parts: AMG carbon

State-of-the-art connectivity and infotainment are optionally provided by the latest generation of COMAND Online, including an 8-inch color Media Display as well as an intuitive touchpad. An extensive package of free Standard Services and Remote Online Services is available for the GLS as part of the mbrace service. Standard Services include automatic emergency call, Accident Recovery and breakdown assistance and after-sales service. The Remote Online services (standard with COMAND and usable free of charge for the first five years) allow access to vehicle information from anywhere at all times, including the status of windows and doors, mileage, tire pressures and other diagnostic data.

Exclusive interior lines meet the most discerning of standards

In addition to ambient lighting and trim elements in black piano lacquer or a variety of woods, five attractive interior color concepts are also available exclusively in genuine leather: black, ginger beige / espresso brown, saddle brown / black, crystal grey / black or ginger beige / black.

In the case of the designo Exclusive nappa leather package, the overall impression of refinement is further heightened by heated comfort seats in the front with upholstery in designo nappa leather as well as characteristic diamond quilting. A distinctively sporty note comes courtesy of the AMG Line interior. It is comprised of, for the first time for the GLS, sports seats in Exclusive nappa leather, a 3-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel in a black Exclusive nappa leather finish, graduated instrument dials in a Checkered flag look and brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs.

GLS 350 d 4MATIC, Interieur: Leder sattelbraun/schwarz, Zierteile: Holz Wurzelnuss glänzend, interior: leather saddle brown, trim parts: walnut wood high-gloss

Maximum safety for seven passengers

The equipment level of the new GLS in the area of active safety underscores Mercedes-Benz’s high standards when it comes to taking the strain off the driver. Standard driver assistance systems include COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, Crosswind Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST. Other systems available as standard on the GLS include: PRE-SAFE® system, Brake Assist BAS, electronic all- wheel drive traction system 4ETS, ESP®, and cruise control.

The optional Driver Assistance Package further reduces the driver’s workload while enhancing safety for the passengers, with systems including DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS PLUS with Cross- Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist.

Optimum protection potential is provided by passive occupant protection systems together with “electronic crumple zones” of the assistance systems and intelligent body design. Adaptive, two-stage airbags for driver and front passenger, knee airbag for the driver and front passenger (combined thorax/pelvis airbags) and window airbags above all three seat rows are available.

Night-time vision is improved by the optionally available LED Intelligent Light System, new to the GLS, while adverse weather conditions resulting in impaired visibility are defused by MAGIC VISION CONTROL, the heated adaptive windscreen wiper system which provides optimum water distribution.

GLS 350 d, Exterior: Cavansitblau metallic, exterior: cavansite blue

Efficient performance: the engine line-up in the GLS

All of the engines available on the new GLS provide better performance across the model line. The powerful GLS550 4MATIC with V8 biturbo engine featuring direct injection now generates 449 hp, some 20 hp more than the preceding model, and at a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft combines outstanding performance with the high level of motoring comfort of these engines. The 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine, also featuring direct injection, is used in the GLS450 4MATIC. This engine produces 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 rpm, and like all GLS models has an ECO start/stop function.

• As the effortlessly superior top-of-the-range model in the series, the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 now has 577 horsepower, over 27 horsepower more than its predecessor. The peak torque of 561 lb-ft is now available from just 1,750 rpm.
• Alongside the gas engine offerings, in the GLS350d 4MATIC offers a proven V6 diesel engine rated at 255 hp and with ample torque of 455 lb-ft.
• At the launch of the new GLS generation, all versions will feature the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard (except the Mercedes-AMG GLS63), optionally in combination with low-range gearbox and center differential lock.

GLS 500 4MATIC ( Studio ), Exterieur: Citrinbraun, AMG Line, exterior: citrine Brown, AMG line

Comprehensive stability: DYNAMIC SELECT, AIRMATIC with enhanced ADS and ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM

With DYNAMIC SELECT, the new GLS provides up to six transmission modes. In addition to the settings COMFORT, SLIPPERY and SPORT, with the DYNAMIC SELECT Controller in the center console, the driver can additionally choose INDIVIDUAL or an OFF-ROAD mode. If the GLS model is equipped with the optional Off-Road Engineering package, OFF-ROAD+ mode is also available. With this, the low-range gearbox and center differential lock intervene if necessary in order to ensure a high degree of drivability in demanding off-road terrain. This is further boosted by the extended functions of the AIRMATIC air suspension with raised ride heights for a ground clearance of up to 12.5 inches (306 mm) and a fording depth of up to 23.6 inches (600 mm).

On the GLS63, the DYNAMIC SELECT system receives the AMG treatment with the inclusion of a SPORT+ mode in place of the OFF-ROAD mode available on other models.

In addition to several ground-breaking powertrain configurations, the retuned AIRMATIC air suspension with enhanced ADS damping characteristics guarantees extremely stable driving, altering dampening depending on the current DYNAMIC SELECT mode. SPORT focuses on the greatest possible lateral dynamics with the best possible ride quality. Conversely, COMFORT mode enables maximum ride quality with the best possible dynamics.

The optional active roll stabilization ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle and reduces the roll angle of the body during cornering. Better driving comfort when cornering and driving off-road are also part of the advantages of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM.

GLS 500 4MATIC ( Studio ), Interior: Nappaleder Porzellan/schwarz, AMG Line, Zierteile: Holz Esche braun offenporig, interior: nappa leather porcelain/black, AMG line, trim parts: brown open-pore ash wood trim

Completely modernized SUV family from Mercedes-Benz

With the new GLS, Mercedes-Benz is now offering the latest and most comprehensive premium SUV range ever. The portfolio now ranges from the compact GLA, to the new GLC, the successful GLE family, the GLE Coupe and GLS, right through to the mainstay of all Mercedes-Benz SUVs, the G-Class.

With its wide range of engine options, the GLS is an impressive prospect for North American buyers in particular: it has been a market leader in its segment for many years.

The GLS will be available to order from December 2015, with deliveries in in the US market from late-March 2016.

Mercedes-Benz is set to sell its full-size SUV with the “GLS” moniker in order to better explain its similarity to the S-Class. Aside from the obvious name change the massive SUV has been updated to better match company’s latest designs.

The updated headlights will now incorporate the LED daytime running lights while the front bumper now has larger vents and what looks to be an aluminum spoiler lip. The double slats on the front grille have an updated look now and the Mercedes-Benz logo has been slightly enlarged . The side profile of the GLS however, appears to be identical.

You can expect an official reveal of the Mercedes-Benz GLS to happen in the coming days, most likely Mercedes-Benz will bring the car to this month’s Los Angeles Auto Show kicking of press days on November 17.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes GLS has been spied virtually undisguised ahead of a possible debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Essentially a facelifted version of the GL, the GLS features a new front fascia with a revised grille and modified air intakes. The crossover also has a new rear bumper and restyled lighting units.

GLS Spy Photo

Our spies couldn’t get close enough to snap interior photos but the cabin is expected to echo the GLE. This means we can likely expect a new multi-function steering wheel, a freestanding infotainment system and updated upholstery.

Engine options are largely expected to carryover so expect to see a handful of familiar petrol and diesel units.

Via: WCF

A prototype of the Mercedes-Benz GLS (GL facelift) has been spied once again prior to this year’s already confirmed market launch.

Although it’s making the name change from “GL” to “GLS”, the full-size luxury SUV from Mercedes-Benz will only go through a mid-cycle facelift which is why the prototype spotted by our spy photographers only carries some light disguise. Both front and rear bumpers are getting a new look and there could also be some small changes to the hood design while the headlight and taillight clusters are also going through a revision.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The interior cabin will also go through a series of updates and chances are most of the bits and pieces will be borrowed from the recently introduce GLE Coupe. Mercedes-Benz has hinted the GLS could spawn a more luxurious Maybach derivative which would likely come with a stretched wheelbase granting more legroom for rear passengers which will likely benefit from individual seats.

Expect the GLS to be unveiled in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show where Mercedes-Benz could also decide to bring the GLE (M-Class facelift).

Via: WCF

The Mercedes-Benz GL facelift (GLS) has returned in a fresh batch of spy shots while the prototype was undergoing winter testing.

Mercedes-Benz’s flagship SUV is about to receive a mid-cycle refresh which as noticeable in these images won’t be very significant since the styling tweaks will be limited to the bumpers and hood. The headlights & taillights will also be going through mild surgery while the interior is bound to receive a few updates.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The facelifted GL will be commercialized with the GLS moniker as part of the new nomenclature and it could also spawn a more luxurious Maybach derivative slotted within the newly established Mercedes-Maybach sub-brand.

Engine lineup is expected to be carried over without any changes and will include the recently introduced twin-turbo V6 3.0-liter in the GL400 where it delivers 333 HP (245 kW) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes-Benz GLS will be unveiled at a major auto show sometime in 2015.

Via: WCF

Reports have come in that Mercedes-Benz is planning to further extend its SUV line-up with a BMW X6 competitor called the GLS. This is according to sources within Mercedes and not yet confirmed publicly.

2014 is the scheduled for launch year for the new four-seater SUV which will share the same uni-body platform that underpins the third-generation M-class and the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee.

“After closely monitoring sales trends, we’ve concluded there is potential for an additional off-road model with a more sporting emphasis than the new M-class,” an insider revealed last week.

Part of a new wave of models due in the next five years, the GLS will forgo the practicality of the five-seat M-class for a more sporting four-seat interior, with a sportier roofline and styling cues from the Mercedes-Benz CLS.

The obvious competitor is the BMW X6, which has been a huge success worldwide with 120,000 sold since 2009 The new Mercedes SUV will also face competition from a new Audi Q6, planned for 2016 as well as a new Range Rover Sport that will be on sale in 2013.

Source: ZerCustoms