Mercedes-Benz India have launched the new GLS, a more stylish, updated and luxurious replacement for the GL, from Rs 80.38 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune).
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class features a totally revised front-end with a wider, more committed-looking front grille and LED headlamps as standard. While the side profile remains vastly unchanged, the rear gets new LED tail-lamp clusters and an ‘S’ suffix to the GL badging to inform of the upgrade and added luxury elements to essentially position it as an off-road ready S-Class.
The interior gets an even more luxurious layout than the GL, with a fine balance of wood, metal and quality plastic. The air of high-quality craftsmanship is undeniable. For vehicle and multimedia functions, the COMAND Touch interface from the S-Class also makes its appearance. The plush leather seats and large sunroof with dual sun-blinds make for an airy and spacious-feeling cabin. There is ample room for up to seven occupants. With a convenient electrically-operated third-row and power boot. Cargo volume is 295 litres with the third row up, 680 with it folded down, and a cavernous 2,300 litres with the second row tumble-folded.
The drivetrain has seen the incorporation of the new 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic which has a much wider spread of ratios and keeps the engine turning over at optimum revs, improving fuel efficiency and power delivery characteristics. The diesel GLS 350 d uses the same 3.0-litre V6 with 258 PS and 620 Nm. No petrol versions have been launched at this point. The GLS has standard 4MATIC intelligent all-wheel drive. The Active Curve Assist takes care of body-roll, countering it in corner by use of an active ant-roll bar. The adaptive damping system and air suspension ensure maximum ride comfort with greater agility and reassuring handling, making this a truly capable large seven-seater luxury vehicle.
The addition of more drive modes makes the GLS even more capable. The GLS 350 d features five: ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’, ‘Snow’, ‘Off-road’, and a customisable ‘Individual’ mode. Watch out for the road test of the GLS 350 d 4MATIC in the upcoming June 2016 issue of Car India magazine.
At this price point, the GLS will fight primarily against the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. Expect to see a petrol model and a high-performance AMG 63 down the line as well.
Story: Jim Gorde
