Mercedes-Benz revealed today the first official details and pictures of the replacement for the old GL-Class SUV, known from here on out as the Mercedes GLS. The name hints at what the manufacturer intended for the new SUV to be, which is a GL-Class with S-Class levels of luxury and refinement.
So in many ways, the 2017 Mercedes GLS is the automaker’s real answer to the Range Rover. It is a big and comfortable cruiser that offers exceptional comfort and luxury, boasts good dynamism and on-road performance, and if the going ever got rough, it is more than capable of holding its own against mother nature.
Mercedes GLS comes with a host of electronic and mechanical features to make such a package possible, including DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, improved air suspension system (AIRMATIC) with enhanced damping system (ADS), and nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Engine-wise, you can choose between the 449 hp GLS550 4MATIC V8, the 362 hp GLS450 4MATIC V6, the 255 hp GLS350d 4MATIC diesel, and the range-topping 557 hp GLS63 AMG.
As for the looks, the GLS is basically a facelifted GL with a bold new grille, revised bumpers and new light graphics. The interior design is also very familiar, but you’d be hard pressed to find anything to complain about in the midst of all the leather, wood, aluminum and piano black accents.