An all-new model of the Mercedes’ flagship SUV, the GLS, has been spied testing in Europe. After the launch of the current generation in 2012, almost nothing has changed in the SUV except for the badges and a few nips and tucks that were barely visible. The all-new GLS looks like it will ditch the boxy lines in favour of curves.
The all-new GLS continues to be huge and will continue to measure over 5.1 metres in length. It will be built on the new MHA platform that was developed for the new GLE. The three-cab layout is clearly visible, but the D-pillar looks a little more slanted than before. While that might have been done to keep the GLS in line to compete with the upcoming BMW X7 and the Audi Q8, we hope it doesn’t undermine the headroom for the third row passengers, the GLS’s USP.
Since the new GLS will be built to become the S-Class of Mercedes SUVs, it might get interior design cues from the S. Also, with the new Maybach SUV touted to be based on the GLS, the S-Class connection seems more probable. Which means, it will get the TFT-screen instrument cluster, a large display screen in the centre and individual entertainment packages for the second row in the higher trims.
In the Indian-spec car, panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, 360-camera and all other bells and whistles will be standard. As for the powertrains, the 350d will be the mainstay across the globe as well as in India with the possibility of the hybrid powertrains joining the regular petrol V6 and the V8 engines. In case it gets the Maybach badge, a V12 under the GLS’s hood will be a rarity from the Mercedes stable.
The new GLS is expected to be unveiled in 2018 and will GO on sale soon after in Europe and knowing its popularity in India, you can expect the car to arrive here before 2019.
