Mercedes-Benz announces the launch of the new GLS

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS sets the standards in the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) world as it confirms its position as the 'S-Class among SUVs'. The GLS boasts ample spaciousness and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and also best-in-class safety.

A new dynamic exterior and a revised luxurious interior clearly underscore the majestic character of the GLS. With the model update, the designers have adapted the luxury SUV to the current Mercedes-Benz design idiom.

On the exterior, the focus has been placed on a redesign of the front end, while the rear has been modernised primarily in the area of the bumper and taillights.

Eye-catching highlights in the interior include the newly designed instrument panel with semi-integrated Media Display, the new three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, the modified centre console with touchpad and also the new appointment colours and trim elements.

Furthermore, up to seven passengers are able to enjoy the outstanding level of spaciousness. 

The centre seat row enables a high degree of flexibility in the interior, including a cargo position for optimum use of the luggage compartment. This provides a volume of 680 to 2300 litres and as such, clearly surpasses the amount of space offered by the vehicle's competitors. On top of this there is a maximum load compartment length of 2,124mm as well as a payload capacity of up to 815kg

Compared with its predecessor, the new generation features improved efficiency, extended DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the latest evolutionary stage of the air suspension system AIRMATIC with enhanced damping system ADS, the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, state-of-the-art assistance systems and the latest telematics generation with internet access.

All engines of the new GLS provide better performance, with in part reduced fuel consumption. The V6 twin-turbo engine, also featuring direct injection, is used in the GLS 400 4MATIC. This engine produces an output of 328bhp and 480Nm of torque from 1,600rpm, and like all models features an ECO start/stop function. 

As the superior top-of-the-line model of the series, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC is now rated at 577bhp, up by more than 28bhp from its predecessor. The peak torque of 760Nm is available from as low as 1,750rpm. Despite a significant increase in performance, fuel consumption remains unchanged.

Alongside the petrol engines, in the GLS 350 d 4MATIC there is the choice of the proven V6 diesel engine rated at 254bhp and 620Nm of torque. 

At the launch of the new GLS generation, all versions feature the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard (except the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63), optionally in combination with a low-range gearbox and centre differential lock.