By: IOL Motoring Staff
Atlanta - Mercedes-Benz calls its new GLS "the S-Class among SUVs" but before you get your hopes up, the company hasn't put its flagship sedan's chassis on stilts with a fresh new body.
What we get instead is a facelifted version of the current GL that falls into line with the company's new naming strategy . Granted, the GL had yet to reach the end of its model cycle so perhaps something swankier, and more technologically advanced, is in the works for the next generation.
For now let's take a look at the changes that have been made.
Most notable is a redesigned and more expressive front end that brings it into line with Merc's latest family look, with headlights shaped around the grille, while rear end gets new LED taillights and a modernised bumper and the side is set apart by new alloy wheel designs.
MORE POWER
The tech gurus have done some tinkering under the bonnet, improving both performance and efficiency and the biggest gain takes place in the hottest version, with the GLS63 AMG's twin-turbo V8 boosted to 430kW (from 410kW) and 760Nm.
The tamer twin-turbo V8 in the GLS500, meanwhile, is up from 320kW to 335kW and the smallest petrol option is a 270kW 3-litre V6 twin-turbo in the GLS450. The most efficient version, however, is the 190kW V6 turbodiesel in the GLS350d. All engines, barring the AMG's V8, are mated to Merc's nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox. 4Matic all-wheel drive is also installed across the board, and buyers can opt for an off-road package with low-range and diff-lock for serious bundu bashing.
For better on-road comfort, the Airmatic air suspension has been retuned with improved ADS damping characteristics.
CLASSIER CABIN
Mercedes describes the GLS as "the only full-fledged seven-seater in the European SUV segment" as the GL's practical packaging continues unaltered. The cabin has been freshened up a little, with a modified centre console that now offers touch-pad functionality for the infotainment system and there's a redesigned three-spoke multi-function steering wheel and instrument panel with colour Media Display.
Buyers can opt for five interior colour schemes, including a 'Designo Exclusive' package with diamond quilting.
South African specifications and pricing will be released closer to launch date.